It was reported by The Athletic’s Max Olson that the Big 12 are looking at expansion and the four programs at Cincinnati, UCF, Houston and BYU.
The Big 12's current preference in expansion discussions is adding four members, sources tell @TheAthletic.
— Max Olson (@max_olson) September 2, 2021
BYU, UCF, Cincinnati and Houston are considered the leading contenders. Still a lot of work to be done.
More info: https://t.co/5V7wCpi0DH
With Texas and Oklahoma jumping ship to the SEC it leaves the Big 12 at eight teams. The Pac 12 stated they wouldn’t grab any of the remaining teams, so only the Big Ten and ACC would be the current P5 conferences to keep an eye on. The remaining eight would be a huge step up for the Bearcats along with the other three teams brought aboard. They would get the renew a rivalry with West Virginia while keeping Houston and UCF on the docket.
All four programs serve a purpose for the Big 12 if they want to survive. UCF gives them a piece of the Florida market, Cincinnati gives them a piece of Ohio, Houston is a top tier market in Texas and BYU is a storied program which gives them some semi west coast reach.
Even without Texas and Oklahoma, this would be a better profile for Cincinnati and a better consistent pay day. At the end of the day it’s about the yearly cash and the Big 12 will allow the program to get a raise. Hopefully the Big 12 doesn’t fall apart, but if it does the Bearcats can use their time to make them more attractive to other conferences.
Personally sign me up, but TFON will keep you up to date with the latest news surrounding the Bearcats.
