Today, Explained From Pac-12 to Pac-2
Sep 7, 2023
Chris Vannini, a Senior writer for The Athletic specializing in college football, delves into the upheaval of the Pac-12 conference as teams migrate to rival leagues, leaving fans disoriented. He discusses the burgeoning power of the SEC and Big Ten, emphasizing financial disparities and their impact on traditional rivalries. Vannini also highlights how television revenue is transforming college sports, echoing professional dynamics, and the challenges this poses for sustainability and engagement with younger fans.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Impact of Realignment
- Conference realignment significantly impacts college football, affecting teams, conferences, and the overall landscape.
- Casual viewers might not notice the changes immediately, as the biggest games and teams will still be featured.
The Turning Point
- The 1984 Supreme Court decision (NCAA vs. Board of Regents) enabled schools to make individual TV deals.
- This led to increased revenue and competition, ultimately contributing to the current realignment issues.
Pac-12's Downfall
- The Pac-12's near collapse began with Texas and Oklahoma leaving the Big 12, creating a domino effect.
- USC and UCLA's move to the Big Ten further weakened the Pac-12, leading to its current predicament.