Wednesday began innocently and normally enough.
Big Ten media days began in Indianapolis. Some moderately interesting things were said by the coaches and players. The Northwestern hazing scandal was a constant point of focus from assembled media members. Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti addressed a wide range of subjects, including the arrival of USC and UCLA in 2024 and the need to accommodate the Trojans and Bruins.
Petitti was also asked about possible Big Ten expansion. He said the only focus among conference leaders and athletic department administrators was to smooth the path for USC and UCLA. Additional expansion was not mentioned and not viewed as a priority for the Big Ten.
That was before the huge news broke Wednesday afternoon, linking Colorado to a move to the Big 12.
If Colorado does move to the Big 12, it opens the door for the Arizona schools to leave for the Big 12 as well. If the Arizona schools leave, the Pac-12 could cease to exist.
In that case, the Big Ten might have to expand — less by choice and more as a matter of necessity. It’s going to be another wild realignment summer before we start playing football in a month.
Tony Petitti says focus is on scheduling and logistics with bringing in USC and UCLA. Not getting any direction as far as further expansion at this time.
— Bill Bender (@BillBender92) July 26, 2023
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