If they really really do put the Big X (Select-A-Number-Between-8-and-16) back together, again, then I think Mo stays put; for now. Then I think this expansion contraction stuff gins up again next summer. I know several conferences are passing rules for stability, but I just don't feel like is all over.
It was decided some time ago that no new addition would be from the current SEC footprint. The conference wants to expand its market.
It probably will not be Missouri which, along with Oklahoma, have agreed to remain in the Big 12 Conference provided some conditions are met. 1. Dan Beebe resigns. Beebe resigned Thursday. 2. Completely equal revenue sharing between all leage members for Tier 1 and Tier 2 rights. 3. Reasonable restrictions on the Longhorn Network as it relates to Tier 3 rights. 4. Conference expansion to at least 10 and potentially 12 schools ASAP. Texas has agreed to add BYU but is balking at a 12-team expansion. I am looking to North Carolina or North Carolina State being #14.
If the SEC goes to the east coast to look for a 14th member, I think they go to either the state of North Carolina or Virginia. We already have footholds in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. This is why I don't see FSU, The U, GT, or Clemson getting invites.
This would be a much easier path to the SECCG for us, but it would suck to lose the yearly meetings with Bama, AU, and Florida. Sure, they are challenging for us year in and year out, but isn't that what makes a season in the SEC so special?
Agreed. But there would still probably be 4 Top 25 teams in each division annually. The competition would still be there.
I hate that I am even typing this, but what about UConn as # 14. It brings a great TV market, a huge alumni base, 2 top flight basketball programs, fantastic facilities, and it expands the SEC footprint without disrupting the balance of power in football.
