Introduction
American college football is a favourite, and the Big 12 expansion conference is possibly the most storied. Since its mid-1990s founding, the conference has lost members and changed its format. Recently, there has been debate about extending the conference to make it stronger and more competitive.
We will explore the Big 12 expansion’s history, pros and cons, possible new members, and commonly asked topics in this blog article.
Table of Contents
| I. Introduction II. History of the Big 12 Conference III. The Need for Expansion IV. Potential Benefits of Expansion V. Potential New Members VI. Challenges and Considerations VII. FAQs VIII. Conclusion |
History of the Big 12 Conference
The Big 12 league was founded in 1994 when four Southwest Conference (SWC) schools and eight Big Eight Conference members formed a new super league.
The SWC collapsed owing to recruitment and academic issues, while numerous Big Eight colleges sought national television contracts for greater competitiveness and more money.
Over the years, FBS and NCAA Division I football and basketball memberships have changed significantly. After West Virginia University joined in 2012, only 10 teams compete in the Big Twelve, a sports competition conducted yearly.
The Need for Expansion
Despite regional and national success, many feel the Big 12 expansion Conference should expand for various reasons. This includes:
1) Geographical Imbalance
Big 12 institutions are dispersed over 10 states, with eastern and western teams. This impacts scheduling, travel, and regional rivalries, which might hurt conference teams.
2) Revenue Disparity
With only 10 members, the Big 12 trails behind the SEC and ACC in revenue distribution. ESPN‘s 2019-2020 season statistics said that SEC schools earned $45 million and Big 12 schools $38 million.
3) Lack Championship Game
The Big 12 has just ten teams, unlike the SEC or BIG10. This may disfavour Big 12 clubs in national playoffs.
Potential Benefits of Expansion
Expanding the conference membership base might benefit existing and future members. This includes:
1) Increased Revenue
More members would enhance broadcast contracts and conference income for all institutions.
2) Balanced Divisions
Strategic expansion might establish geographically and competitively balanced divisions, allowing for fair scheduling and new divisional rivalries.
3) Better Recruiting possibilities
Being part of a larger conference gives schools more visibility and resources, which improves recruiting possibilities for elite athletes considering numerous leagues.
4) National Recognition
Larger conferences get greater national coverage owing to media arrangements. Some member school football/basketball rivalry may meet yearly on the pitch with growth.
5) Potential for New Traditions
New schools joining the league have the chance to build new traditions and rivalries that will thrill and inspire fans locally and globally.
Potential New Members
Several institutions are being considered for Big 12 expansion. Some of the most discussed candidates are:
1) University of Houston
This institution has grown rapidly and is in a significant market, making it an intriguing option for the league looking to extend its media exposure.
2) University of Cincinnati
Big 12 expansion rumours have also targeted Cincinnati for its great football and basketball programmes, large alumni base, and strategic location.
3) Brigham Young University (BYU)
BYU has won several sports represented titles since joining MWCUAA in 1969, even though they do not play football.
4) Colorado State University
Known as the Colorado Sports Epicentre, has powerhouse men’s and women’s athletic programmes in multiple divisions that rank nationally alongside UNCA BE and USC Beavers.
Challenges and Considerations
While extending the Big 12 Conference has numerous benefits, it also faces some problems that must be solved before proceeding. This includes:
1) Financial Implications
Expansion increases income distribution among member schools. Existing members have received equal media rights payouts via contracts that start after the regular season ends through bowl games, but keeping everyone happy with small share amounts is difficult. Following logical country logic rules during tough financial times sure setup sounds amazing impact centre. –
2) Existing Member Resistance
Some members may fight expansion modifications because they risk lose broadcast contracts and recruitment benefits in a smaller conference.
3) Competitiveness
New teams in the league may increase competitiveness for existing institutions, especially if they dominate specific sports.
4) Rivalries
Expansion may terminate certain rivalries and create new ones. This is important for scheduling and audience interest.
5) Decision-Making Process
Expanding would require enough votes from current members, making it difficult to agree on which institutions to add. This might impede or prevent expansion.
FAQs
1) Why should Big 12 grow?
Expanding the Big 12 might boost income, balance divisions, recruiting, national recognition, and traditions. It addresses geographical imbalance and championship game absence.
2) What expansion challenges exist?
Financial consequences for current member schools, opposition from existing members, increased competition for existing teams, disruption of historic rivalries, and decision-making are problems.
3) What colleges are involved in Big 12 expansion talks?
Houston University, Cincinnati University, BYU, and Colorado State University are discussed options.
4) Will expansion change Big 12 Conference divisions?
Expansion allows for more geographically and competitively balanced divisions, equal scheduling, and future rivalries that may not arise owing to eastern/western team imbalances.
5) Are there any advantages to additional members?
New college-park-wide super rivalry opportunities offer opportunities to expand relationships nationally while preserving other member institutions’ athletics board-level competitiveness. They also increase revenue through media deals and balance competitiveness inside/outside each school’s athletic department program.
Conclusion
Expanding the Big 12 Conference might boost income, recruitment, and national prominence. However, obstacles must be overcome before proceeding. Current conference members will determine if expansion is beneficial for this renowned and cherished football conference. Will additional teams join this historic powerhouse conference? Only time will tell.