It seems another round of conference realignment is on the horizon.
Recently, it was reported that Memphis is pursuing a spot in the Big 12, and on Thursday, Inside Carolina revealed that North Carolina is considering a move to the SEC—potentially after the exit fees decrease in 2030.
The ACC has been facing challenges, trying to satisfy Clemson and Florida State following the recent wave of realignment that sent Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC, while the Big Ten significantly affected the Pac-12 by acquiring USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington. With these shifts, the Big 12 took the opportunity to claim some prominent schools, which diminished the Pac-12’s status as a Power Conference.
If the ACC were to undergo a similar downturn, it could be interesting to analyze its schools as potential Big 12 candidates. The Big 12 currently comprises 16 institutions, raising questions about its desire to expand further, but let’s have some fun speculating.
Top Contenders: Florida State, Miami, Clemson
These institutions should be prioritized by the Big 12 if they become available; however, they would likely seek opportunities in the SEC or possibly the Big Ten for stability if the ACC disintegrates. These schools have strong football reputations and would significantly enhance the Big 12’s visibility.
Basketball Powerhouses: North Carolina, Duke
The Big 12 already boasts a strong basketball reputation, and it has recently flirted with famous programs like UConn and Gonzaga for potential inclusion. North Carolina and Duke would add significant basketball prowess and come with capable football programs, making them a win-win scenario.
Logical Additions: SMU, Louisville, Pitt
Though geographical proximity has become less crucial in college athletics, SMU, Louisville, and Pitt appear to fit well within the Big 12’s footprint. Adding SMU would reinforce ties to Texas, while Louisville could serve as a connection to the east, helping to bridge existing teams like Cincinnati and West Virginia.
Wrestling Giants: Virginia Tech, NC State
Though they could fit in a higher tier, the outstanding wrestling programs of Virginia Tech and NC State deserve recognition. Both teams are frequent contenders in national titles, and their addition could strengthen the Big 12’s wrestling presence.
Potential Westward Expansion: Stanford, Cal
While adding Stanford and Cal could further the Big 12’s growth, they may not be ideal fits. Their geographical distance from existing Big 12 institutions raises concerns about cohesiveness within the conference.
Moderately Interesting: Virginia, Georgia Tech
These schools have strengths—Virginia excels in basketball while Georgia Tech could penetrate the Atlanta market—but neither exudes a strong Big 12 vibe.
Less Appealing Options: Wake Forest, Boston College, Syracuse
Wake Forest and Boston College do not bring much excitement to the table athletically, while Syracuse, despite its basketball legacy, is significantly distanced from the Big 12 footprint, expanding the league all the way into the northeast.
