Well, thankfully my kind doctor’s released me today. As promised here is my update, although more brief than expected;
I have been told that Big 12 expansion is imminent!
The Big 12 is satisfied that expansion will be beneficial to the conference from an Athletics and Academic standpoint, and feel now is the time to expand. A window in the Big 12 television contracts will allow for renegotiation of the contracts, allowing the Big 12 to maintain its payouts to members.
I was told by three very credible sources, Cincinnati will be the 11th member of the Big 12. As to the possible 12th member I am told University of South Florida may be invited. UC and USF set themselves apart from other possible expansion candidates, when one takes into account the university and what it offers the Big 12. UC and USF are top 50 research institutions with tremendous growth, supported by endowments to facilitate future growth. Both universities reside in top 25 markets (Cincinnati-Dayton), and are instrumental to the urban core where they reside. Finally, both universities reside in a top 5 state for college recruitment.
To answer your obvious questions?
When will this be announced? I would give a date, however then you would hold me to it. I will tell you it will not be long.
How does the Big 12 scheduling work with 11 or 12 teams versus 10 schools? Plans have been made and agreed upon. I personally like the 11 team conference setup, however I understand the real importance of having a school in the state of Florida.
Will the Big 12 have a CCG? If the conference expands to 11 teams, and the waiver is approved, then YES. If the waiver is not approved, then NO. If the conference expands to 12 teams, then YES.
I will post more details later, for now I need to rest.
