Big 12 Adds Arizona – The landscape of college sports is ever-changing, and the Pac-12 has felt the impact of recent conference realignment more than most. Once a powerhouse conference, the Pac-12 has seen several of its prominent programs depart for other conferences, leaving only four teams behind. Let’s take a closer look at the future of these remaining Pac-12 schools and the conferences they could potentially join. The NCAAF betting picks are up for bettors to place their bets on the preseason games.
Big 12 Adds Arizona: Stanford and Cal – The Big Ten Beckons
For Stanford and Cal, the path seems to lead to the Big Ten. Recent reports indicate that the Big Ten has shown interest in adding these two prestigious institutions to its ranks. With the Big Ten looking to expand its membership and secure a lucrative media rights deal, Stanford and Cal fit the bill as academically esteemed institutions with strong athletic programs. The addition of Oregon and Washington to the Big Ten further solidifies this possibility, making it a conference with a staggering 20 teams.
Oregon State and Washington State: Uncertain Futures
Unfortunately, the future looks more uncertain for Oregon State and Washington State. While their counterparts found new homes in other Power 5 conferences, these two programs face limited options. The Mountain West seems like a realistic fit geographically, though it may not offer the same lucrative opportunities. Going independent could also be considered, but it presents its challenges and uncertainties.
The Big 12’s Growing Roster
On the other side of the realignment equation, the Big 12 is on the rise. Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah have officially joined Colorado in the Big 12, expanding the conference to 16 teams. This makes the Big 12 one of the three conferences with 16 or more members, along with the Big Ten and SEC. The Big 12’s aggressive expansion strategy has paid off, providing its members with significant financial benefits and solidifying its position in the college sports landscape.
With the Pac-12 now reduced to just four members, there is an air of uncertainty surrounding the conference’s future. The departure of key programs to other conferences has raised concerns about the Pac-12’s long-term competitiveness and financial stability. As the landscape of college sports continues to shift, the remaining schools must carefully consider their options.
For Stanford and Cal, the possibility of joining the Big Ten offers an enticing opportunity to be part of a prestigious conference with a wide national footprint. The Big Ten’s expansive media rights deal and strong financial support for its member schools could prove to be a game-changer for these academically esteemed institutions.
On the other hand, Oregon State and Washington State find themselves in a challenging position. The Mountain West might be the most realistic option for these schools, but it may not provide the same financial benefits as their previous conference affiliation.
As conference realignment reshapes the college sports landscape, the Pac-12 and its remaining members need to strategize and adapt to the changing times. The decisions made in the coming months will undoubtedly shape the future of these schools and the conference as a whole. Amidst the uncertainty, one thing is clear: the world of college sports is ever-evolving, and the Pac-12 must be prepared to navigate these uncharted waters.
The Pac-12’s Media Rights Struggle
The recent exodus of programs from the Pac-12 was partly fueled by the conference’s struggle to secure a lucrative media rights deal. The proposed deal with Apple TV fell short of expectations, offering only around $20 million annually to member schools. In contrast, the Big 12’s new media rights agreement with ESPN and Fox provides nearly $32 million annually to its members. The financial disparity between conferences has contributed to the Pac-12’s challenges in retaining its prominent programs.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Pac-12?
With just four teams left, the future of the Pac-12 hangs in the balance. Commissioner George Kliavkoff’s underwhelming media rights presentation and the departure of several powerhouse programs have raised questions about the conference’s viability. The Mountain West and AAC could express interest in discussing membership with the remaining Pac-12 schools, offering alternative paths. For Stanford, with its strong athletic department and prestigious status as a private institution, going independent remains a viable option.
As the college sports landscape continues to evolve, the Pac-12 and its remaining teams face significant challenges and decisions. Conference realignment has reshaped the college sports landscape, and its impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Only time will tell how the remaining Pac-12 schools will navigate these changing tides and shape their futures in the world of college athletics. The college football betting predictions are updated online as each team enters their preseason.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: August 6, 2023
Last updated: August 6, 2023