Something that perhaps caught Sooners fans off guard this season was just how improved several programs in the Big 12 were. TCU, Kansas State, Kansas, and Texas Tech have all surpassed preseason expectations.
I hate getting “SEC SEC SEC” chanted at me as much of the next guy, but after losing to these Big 12 teams, it’s a well-deserved chirp.
So, when Oklahoma and Texas do leave for the SEC, what will remain of the Big 12?
They’ll be fine. They’ll be more than fine.
New Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark will be aggressive in expansion efforts. The Big 12 already has their OU-Texas replacements in Houston, UCF, BYU and Cincinnati. With the Pac-12 still in flux, he could very well make a few calls to the teams out West if he hasn’t already.
TCU might have made the hire of the year in Sonny Dykes. With the future hierarchy of the Big 12 in a state of flux, the Frogs could very well stake their claim to a position of power this season.
Kansas State is too well-run to forget about. They’ve been a thorn in OU’s side for years.
Mike Gundy isn’t going anywhere. Oklahoma State will still be putting up nine-win seasons each year.
Kansas and Iowa State are the wildcards. If they can retain their head coaches, they’re going to be fine. I’m more and more curious as to what Lance Leipold can accomplish if he does stay in Lawrence.
If the two Kansas schools can hold onto their head coaches, the Big 12 has the makings of one of the deepest leagues in the country.
While the Big 12 won’t be the Big Ten or the SEC, they will still be a great football conference. They will not die without the Sooners and Longhorns.
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