Here’s a memo to the Southeastern Conference: We don’t like these late-night football and basketball games.

We understand it’s about money, and ESPN is the engine that flows billions into the conference so they will have a strong say about what time games for television are played. But any kickoffs after 7:30 p.m. is too late.

Consider that conference football games often run three hours and 45 minutes, especially if pass-happy teams like Ole Miss are involved. That means an 8 p.m. kickoff like Saturday’s Ole Miss vs. Alabama game won’t be over until almost midnight.

That’s too late for most everybody but ESPN.

College football games are known for alcohol consumption, so the later the game, the heavier the consumption. Additionally, many fans have to drive from the region to reach games and hotel rooms are sold out, requiring late-night drives home.

This makes no sense.

Even for the casual TV viewer the fourth quarter rolling around at 11 p.m. is just too late. It’s hard to stay awake and it crushes the spirit of the contest for many.

We understand money talks when it comes to TV and big-time college sports. But we aren’t afraid to talk about it. These games are too late. Period.