Conference Realignment: The Case for Arizona State, Utah, and Others Joining Big Ten and Big East
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has a history of conference realignment, and recent discussions have brought the potential movement of Arizona State, Utah, and other schools into the Big Ten and Big East Conferences to the forefront. At the heart of this debate lies the question of whether these schools would be better suited in more prominent conferences, and if so, which conferences they should join. This article explores the potential for such moves and the implications for these and other schools.
Arizona State, Utah, and the Future of the Big 12
Arizona State and Utah have been discussed as potential moves from the Pac-12 to the rival Big 12 Conference. However, it is proposed that they would thrive better in the Big Ten Conference (Big Ten). The Big Ten's larger market and more competitive atmosphere could provide significant advantages for these schools.
Big Ten Conference is a more prestigious and historically dominant conference, with a deeper tradition in terms of athletic success and academic reputation. Moves such as these could not only enhance the profile of Arizona State and Utah but also provide a platform for them to compete at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.
Arizona State, Utah, and the Big Ten Connection
Arizona State and Utah are both western universities with strong academic and athletic programs. Their relocation to the Big Ten would align them with a conference that shares their values of excellence and rigor. Additionally, the Big Ten offers a broader range of premier opponents, providing greater opportunities for on-field success and college football rankings.
By moving to the Big Ten, these schools could also benefit from the conference's robust television network and financial stability, ensuring long-term sustainability and investment in their sports programs.
The Future of the Big XII and Southeastern Conference
The current Big XII Conference, like the Pac-12 and SEC, faces challenges in maintaining its economic and competitive advantages. A potential merger between the Big XII and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) could create a new powerhouse conference, combining the strength of both leagues. This could result in a more competitive and economically viable conference, benefiting all member institutions.
The combination of the Big XII and SEC would create a conference with a vast geographic reach and a wealth of resources, making it even more difficult for rival conferences like the Big Ten and Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) to compete on a similar level.
Strategic Moves for Other Schools
Alongside the rearrangement of the Big Ten and Big XII, other strategic moves are proposed for various schools to create a more balanced and competitive landscape. Brigham Young University (BYU) is being considered for a move to the American Athletic Conference, providing it with greater exposure and opportunities within a different set of competition.
Similarly, Central Florida (UCF), Cincinnati, and West Virginia are suggested to join the Big East Conference. This move would position them alongside prestigious programs like Rutgers and Maryland, enhancing their visibility and competitiveness on the national stage.
Connecticut, East Carolina, Navy, and Temple are also recommended to remain in the Big East Conference, preserving the conference's regional and cultural ties. These moves would create a more cohesive and strategically balanced landscape for college athletics across the nation.
Conclusion
The potential realignment of collegiate athletic conferences presents an exciting prospect for the future of sports and education. Moving Arizona State, Utah, and other institutions to more prestigious conferences like the Big Ten and Big East could significantly enhance their profile and opportunities. This realignment not only boosts individual school profiles but also contributes to the overall health and competitiveness of college athletics across the country.