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6.11.2010

The new world of college football: Is the SEC dying?

Hey everyone. So today we receive word (via named sources) that Nebraska will join the Big 10 Conference one year from now.

We also have received word (via unnamed sources) that Texas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and the Fightin' Tubervilles are on the verge of joining the Pac-10.

I still don't see how this affects the Southeastern Conference.

It's apparent that league commissioner Mike Slive has been talking with some of these schools. It's also apparent that Texas A&M is taking SEC overtones more seriously, though, as the story notes, that could be a function of ego in College Station. They have this thing about not having their lives dictated by Texas. Sound familiar?

Anyway, I still don't see the SEC changing right now. The schools that make most sense (Atlantic Coast Conference) have nothing to do with this realignment.

Do you hear any talk of the ACC disbanding? I didn't think so.

224 Comments:

Dear Leader said...: sux substance; 7:14 PM
Dear Leader said...: I want Fla State, Texas, TA&M and VA Tech; 7:16 PM
michael said...: aksdfj lkasdf lkajsfdkjsadf lkj 3rd; 7:19 PM
War Eagle Girl said...: I think we should expand.......who I don't know; 7:20 PM
michael said...: Was there a Kristeenuh sighting on the last thread? Crazy times!; 7:21 PM
Unknown said...: I've heard Va Tech mentioned several times. I don't see them leaving the ACC. That's where their natural rivals are (such as they are).; 7:21 PM
michael said...: ACC schools make the least sense, Jay G. If you aren't increasing your viewing area, you are just splitting conference money between fewer teams. It is all about the TV deals.; 7:22 PM
Honey said...: I guess I should care about all this realignment stuff, but I am having a hard time working up interest. I think the SEC continues to kick everyone's booty whether we are 12 teams or 16.; 7:25 PM
Unknown said...: True Cincy.

But it's not about now. It's about can the SEC continue to compete with 16 team leagues in 10 or 15 years when it's time to negotiate new media contracts. The time to pick up good teams is while things are in flux.; 7:30 PM
Unknown said...: Virginia Tech has been mentioned, although I haven't seen anything to make me think it will happen.

What would trigger something is if the Big10 goes after an ACC school, which is certainly possible.; 7:30 PM
Unknown said...: Maryland has also been mentioned as a target of the Big12, and someone mentioned the SEC looking at them, although I can't see that.; 7:32 PM
Unknown said...: The talk of NC and Duke going to the SEC seems just as ridiculous, although one article I read said Slive wants them. If those two left the ACC, I doubt the ACC would stay together. Those two schools are the heart of their conference.; 7:34 PM
Unknown said...: Maryland students celebrate by rioting and burning couches ( I accidently wrote coaches first). We really don't want them in the SEC.

Tech is actually a lot like Auburn, but with mountains.; 7:37 PM
Honey said...: Nova,
I see your point. Guess we'll just have to wait and see how it all shakes out.; 7:38 PM
Unknown said...: NC and Duke don't add anything for football but they'd make the SEC the premier basketball conference. That would be huge.

I don't see it happening either.; 7:39 PM
Honey said...: I know this won't help with the TV markets that everyone is talking about, but I wish we would get Georgia Tech. I loved it when we played them every year. I miss the Wreck Tech parade in our pjs.; 7:39 PM
Unknown said...: True, it's all rumor and guessing right now Cincy. But it can be fun to play the guessing game. It's a distraction between seasons.; 7:41 PM
Unknown said...: I'd love to have Ga Tech back as well. That was a great rivalry.; 7:42 PM
Unknown said...: I would love to have Virginia Tech in the SEC, but all of this realignment is going to destroy a lot of traditional rivalries.

Many seem to think that expanding the TV footprint is the big deal, but what is more important is providing more interesting match ups. Even without the new TV markets, Auburn playing Oklahoma and Texas A&M would bring viewers familiar with college football.

The PacX adding the Big12 South doesn't seem likely to create many new exciting regular season games, but I would tune in to see the some of the Pac10 schools playing the Big12 South teams. It will be intriguing.; 7:42 PM
War Eagle Girl said...: me,too cincy.

I think it will eventually end up 4 conferences with the playoff championship. I am sure that is what will happen from all this.; 7:45 PM
Jet said...: WEG ...

Hush your whining. Just kidding.

MJT ...

It was just a virtual Kristina, announcing she was moving to the Josh Moon blog.; 7:55 PM
War Eagle Girl said...: Jet, I don't know if I care really unless it helps us win a championship.
Signed,
The Sunshine Whiner

Much hate up tomorrow.; 7:58 PM
Miller said...: Jeff Demps just captured 100M Outdoor NCAA championship in 9.96!

That's smokin' fast!; 8:11 PM
Miller said...: According to Joe Schad:
USC RB Dillon Baxter has told his compliance dept that five schools illegally contacted him June 10. USC says Dillon Baxter was contacted illegally by Florida, Oregon, Washington, Alabama and Fresno.

Ruh-Roh Rhaggy!; 8:27 PM
Honey said...: Posted by Charles Goldberg on AL.com:

**For those who like the other kind of football, Jay G. Tate, of HABTON lore, is writing a World Cup blog for the Gannett family of newspapers. He knows that kind of stuff.; 8:31 PM
Jet said...: You go, (War Eagle) Girl.; 8:37 PM
Scott M. Brannan said...: uh-oh bammers. nice reporting Miller.; 8:39 PM
Scott M. Brannan said...: i guess i should've referenced JG's title.

the SEC 'IS' King.

long live the king.; 8:39 PM
Miller said...: Aren't the bammers already on probation? I wonder what kind of trouble this could cause?; 8:40 PM
Jay G. Tate said...: It's hard to understand for some people (not saying you, Cincy) ... but many of the Auburn writers are somewhat close.

I mean, I've spent 13 years alongside Charles and P-Marsh and Jason Caldwell and Mark Murphy. You get to know people, care about them to differing degrees, learn about their lives.; 8:41 PM
Dear Leader said...: t a&m and VA TECH would add great tv regions and more recruiting..; 8:45 PM
Miller said...: It's like a family...; 8:45 PM
Miller said...: Good reporting today on the WC blog, JGT.... by the way, love the layout over there. When is the HABOTN tranformation supposed to take place?; 8:48 PM
michael said...: kbjsa kasklfj alkjsfkjlasgf kljahsf; 9:00 PM
CHB said...: So the walmartians cheated again....what's new?; 9:04 PM
Honey said...: You misunderstood, Jay. I thought it was awesome to see your name and blog referenced in another sportswriter's column.; 9:09 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Miller-

Did he say what was illegal about it?; 9:11 PM
Miller said...: Schools CANNOT contact a freshman; he would have to initiate contact. Juniors and seniors anyone can contact.; 9:12 PM
Honey said...: That was a terrible Braves' game. :(; 9:24 PM
Honey said...: Ooohhh, don't click on that renew site!; 9:25 PM
Honey said...: I need to be smarter,,,; 9:25 PM
CHB said...: Auburn Undercover is free this weekend for anyone who cares to read it. There are going to be a ton of hotly recruited prospects in town this weekend.

WTC, Does your mom know if anyone plans to commit this weekend?; 9:30 PM
Miller said...: not likely, ch-b...; 9:34 PM
Honey said...: Miller,
Thought you and wtc said AU was going to be dribbling out the commitments over the next few weeks? When you do you think they will start this?; 9:36 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Thanks, Miller. I didn't know he was a FR.; 9:37 PM
Miller said...: It's possible that someone may pull the trigger...
But, I think it'll be a couple weeks before the next one.; 9:47 PM
Miller said...: JGT... Your boy has been bad!
"Giants prospect Madison Bumgarner was suspended three games after being ejected and throwing a ball into the outfield."; 9:47 PM
Honey said...: Thanks,
I'll be watching.; 10:08 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: VT official responding to report out of Atlanta (AJC? radio?) that VT may go to SEC... it's "rubbish"; 10:33 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: 2.0 is finally home safely. Good night, Hotties.; 11:01 PM
Jay G. Tate said...: Cincy: I know you weren't being mean at all. It just got me off on a tangent that was not of your own making. HOTTIES, as a breed, are clued in and aware.

Wasn't saying you. Really.; 11:12 PM
ehyou said...: The SEC....endeavor to persevere.; 11:18 PM
AllenD said...: Everything I've seen/heard points to expanding TV markets,..not necessarily compelling matchups.

Texas and Notre Dame are the big prizes in play in that regard. Most of the ACC offers little in expansion of desirable TV markets. The SEC is already king in Atlanta, why pursue Ga Tech? Va Tech really doesn't offer much with regard to a TV market. FSU makes a little sense, as it delivers much of the rest of Florida and works geographically.

Travel with regard to non-revenue sports may be a consideration.

Without fail, the PAC10 sees this expansion as a way to grow their viability in advance of their next TV negotiations...they've gotten tired of hearing how big the SEC's TV contract is..

Interesting there has also been talk about still not having a Championship game in the PAC10... likely fueled by PAC10 Presidents...believe they and the Big10 have been the most adamant holdouts against playoffs. Continuing to refuse to have a CG keeps a playoff at arms length. Two divisions and send the winners of each to BCS games? This is contradictory to revenue talk, however we shouldn't forget PAC 10 is left coast...

Heard an interesting take yesterday on maybe the "basketball schools" should put together their own conference. Kansas, Indiana, Duke, NC, Wake, Vandy... They'd be competitve among each other in football as well.; 7:57 AM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Seriously, is there anything more exhausting than 8 hours of sleep. If so, I haven't found it.; 8:30 AM
Scott M. Brannan said...: Dunno THT. Mrs Scottie is out of town. I was asleep by 10:30 last nite. At work at 7am this morning. Exhausted.; 8:35 AM
digger4au said...: Expansion!
nuff said about that.

2004 National Championship, It will not be offered and Auburn should not seek it.
It is a dead issue and hopefully we have all moved on.; 8:41 AM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: 84 days til kickoff!

Scottie B - who's the honoree?

GO TIGERS!!!

WARRRRRRRRRRRRR EAGLE!!!; 8:47 AM
dan dan the AU fan said...: My thought on expansion is it would be good to get Texas an NDame, but why would they join the SEC and have to work harder to win an MNC. ND already has a weak schedule year in year out. THey obviously don't want a tougher schedule. Texas can play pac-10 with USC on probation and play for it evry year. If the SEC expands it wil have to be schools who have more to gain financially to offset the losses. I think FSU, GT, Clem, and Louisville make more sense. Louisville for bball of course. I know this idea isn't popular, just seems more likely. I think these schools football teams will improve their recruiting as a result of being in the SEC.; 8:51 AM
Honey said...: Really good article on Coach Grimes and his adoption of a little girl from Ethiopia.

Coach Grimes; 8:53 AM
Honey said...: No new AU football news today . . . so far; 9:16 AM
Peter Frankenschmidt said...: THT,

Did 2.0 take my dinner suggestions?; 10:09 AM
Scott M. Brannan said...: Crap I'm drawing a blank THT. I know I'm letting u down.; 10:56 AM
Miller said...: Will you give me a little trouble, I'm having some help here....; 12:04 PM
Honey said...: I know everyone is dying to know that the College Track and Field championships are on CBS.; 12:54 PM
Wakeriderof87 said...: And when they are done with that, they can watch the AMA mx nationals on NBC.; 12:55 PM
Jet said...: "The Rock" is on Encore.

Sean Connery ish aweshome.; 1:06 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: PF -- she had a cooler full of food and soda, so she didn't make any food stops. Plus at Brunswick she was driving through the hardest rain she'd ever seen.

Scottie B - how about Mark Brown?; 1:28 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: There's a soccer match on ABC. I know it doesn't rank up there with NCAA track & field or MX, but it's a good filler for your commercial breaks.; 1:30 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: 3 minutes in, game over.; 1:34 PM
Honey said...: THT,
Is this soccer game you speak of live or a replay? Hard for me to keep up.; 1:36 PM
Unknown said...: Those vuvuzelas are truly annoying. The US uniforms are hideous.; 1:38 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Live, Cincy. Although U.S. team is dead.; 1:38 PM
Honey said...: Yeah, I just saw the live sign.

This is going to be a stupid question, but what is that that sounds like horns going off continually in the background? It is driving me nuts.

US didn't do so well on their corner kicks - wasted opportunities.; 1:46 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: NoVa - the excessive use of ultraslow motion closeups is even more annoying.; 1:51 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: noise =

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vuvuzela; 1:52 PM
Honey said...: Thank you, THT. Nova - I agree, I didn't know what you were talking about before. That would keep me from attending a live soccer game. I have muted the TV to watch the game.; 2:06 PM
stupup74 said...: USA, USA, USA!!!!!!!

We are better at war than england, now we might be better at soccer.

I don't really understand soccer, but it is so much fun when your team scores.; 2:15 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: USA has never won a World Cup game when allowing the opponent to score first... like today.; 2:25 PM
Miller said...: If you could get a 55" LG 240hz LED tv for $1600... would you think it's worth it?

I think so... HHGregg is advertising one in this weeks sale paper.; 2:57 PM
Unknown said...: A tie against England is good.; 3:24 PM
Miller said...: How did the UK keeper botch that save? I know 3 year olds that could have stopped that...; 3:56 PM
Miller said...: This is a (somewhat expected, due to recent events) unfortunate turn of events... running back Mike Blakely says his top three (in order) is now Florida, Auburn and South Carolina.

AU has to step its game up a bit for the kid....; 4:14 PM
ehyou said...: Dempsey with the laser-beam.; 4:16 PM
Miller said...: Slive is in College Station today talking with A&M...; 4:16 PM
Miller said...: laser-beam? more like a slow dribbler; 4:17 PM
Anonymous said...: Miller, check the model# and price with internet shopping sites to make sure, but this could be a very good price.; 4:32 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: I'm off to a graduation party for a neighbor, but not before...; 4:32 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: a late BEASLEY!!!; 4:33 PM
Scott M. Brannan said...: yo THT. Mark Brown was #52.

i'll go ahead & throw out Jay Ratliff #83 for tomorrow. WDE!

i tried watching the world cup today. fell asleep. oh well.; 5:25 PM
Scott M. Brannan said...: or you can use Tyrone Goodson but i wouldn't.; 5:27 PM
Unknown said...: I am wondering if Mike Slive may have gotten caught off guard with the PacX expansion. Previously all the talk was about the Big10 expanding, but the focus has totally shifted. Was Slive planning on expanding West if the Big10 expanded and suddenly finds out that his alternative is already being taken?; 5:50 PM
Unknown said...: By the way, I can't help but be amazed by the changes we are seeing in college football. This is certainly the biggest change since the SEC added the championship game and possibly since the introduction of the forward pass.

It looks like a lot of college football traditions are threatened, and it seems likely that it won't end up being good for the game, even though some schools may make more bucks.; 5:52 PM
Miller said...: I think you may be right, steve (first time for everything)...
I think Slive thought this wouldn't happen as fast as it has, and that the PAC wouldn't be as active as they are... at least not for the schools they are after.

Slive also plans to meet with Texas and Oklahoma officials this weekend as well.

Word is, that if TAMU decides to come to SEC rather than PAC that Utah has the edge over Kansas to move to the PAC (makes more sense geographically for PAC)... Kansas and Kansas st and Baylor are on the radar for MWC...
Kansas wouldn't be a bad addition for SEC either (Arky rival, basketball power... improved football of late); 5:55 PM
Unknown said...: Preserving rivalries should be a big part of this, and that is why Texas and A&M staying together, along with Oklahoma and Ok State makes so much sense.

The thing is, Nebraska going to the Big10 is a total disruption of rivalries, which I don't think is good for college football.

The formation of the Big12 from the Big8 and SWC wasn't nearly so disruptive because most of the natural rivalries remained, but this realignment is different and more about money than rivals.

That is why teams like GT, Clempson, and FSU make sense for the SEC. There are already natural rivalries there. That is also true of Texas A&M to some degree, but not for Texas and Texas is definitely A&M's biggest rival.

The ugly sister here is Missouri, is too good to end up in the MWC or Big East, but doesn't have the SEC rivalries and not much in the Big10.

Sometimes there are no right answers, but these changes are the most significant I have seen in my lifetime. The move of Nebraska alone is huge.; 6:04 PM
chip chip said...: the sec will be portrayed "as trying to catch up" if it waits a few years to expand. either slive was flying waaaaaaay under the radar in his initial contacts with possible sec entrants or he got pantsed by pac10. the anti-roy kramer.

with the teams in each league currently being what they are, (last 4/5 last legitimate national champs-we'll see if bammer's holds up) the sec could expand by most any two that have been mentioned so far and still be distinctly better than the pac16. we'll have to see if bigger turns out to be better.; 6:11 PM
chip chip said...: conference commishes could care less about rivalries than bp could care less about cleaning a pelican. $ first and $ last.; 6:12 PM
chip chip said...: where da gold at?

that is the operative quesiton.; 6:13 PM
Jet said...: Chip, you're an ugly little thing, but I concur.

Where da gold at, indeed!; 6:18 PM
Unknown said...: I think I can make my point with one question. If there was a way Auburn could play Texas and Oklahoma every year, but would have to stop playing Alabama, would you want to see it?; 6:23 PM
Miller said...: The question shouldn't be asked from a 'fans' point of view... because conference expansion isn't about the fan... it's business...

The business side says that playing Texas and Oklahoma would increase the national exposure and the footprint of AU... thus increasing recruiting reach and merchandising outlets...
But, at the same time, IF AU or UAT were to move to a different situation that would use that hypothetical, then I'm sure the schools would find a way to retain the rivalry regardless of other opponents.; 7:15 PM
Miller said...: Texas A&M regents have the votes to join the SEC and could announce that move as early as next week, sources tell Orangebloods.com; 7:25 PM
Miller said...: Oklahoma issues statement confirming president, AD met with Pac-10's Scott, Weiberg today in OKC. Regents will meet Wed ...; 7:25 PM
Jet said...: 13 makes no sense, and I'm not sure 14 does, either. But how do you get to 16 without the Texas-Oklahoma group?

Miller, I'm with you. It's about TV and footprints, not natural matchups.

Tech is not a good plan, and Florida is apparently vehemently opposed to FSU and Miami. So is Virginia Tech in the mix? West Virginia? Louisville?

Strange days.; 7:35 PM
Miller said...: I agree that if you only go by natural rivalries, adding GT and Clemson would make sense... BUT, they bring nothing new to the SEC. They don't expand the footprint at all. AU wants to grow, and the tv contracts are written so that if footprint expands, so does the compensation, automatically. In other words, there would be no need to renegotiate the contracts. They would increase automatically by expanding.

TAMU makes a lot of sense for SEC... IF no one wants Kansas, they would to some extent as well. I've said before, UNC & Duke would be perfect additions as well. Virginia Tech could also be an ACC option...; 7:43 PM
Unknown said...: It isn't just about footprints. Match ups come into play too. Missouri would be better than at least a couple of SEC schools, maybe as many as 5. But I don't think they would generate as much fan interest. If the fans don't watch the games and spend the bucks, it ain't happening.

You also have to consider how attractive the match ups are to players. Being involved in huge rivalries like Auburn/Alabama or Ohio State/Michigan or Texas/Oklahoma has to attract high profile players.

If the SEC expands to sixteen teams, I would expect them to try to get into a couple of new markets and strengthen some. Obviously the SEC owns Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. We pretty much own Georgia.

Florida isn't as clear cut, but we still get the edge with the best team in the state, but adding one other would make sense.

South Carolina and Kentucky are closer to toss ups. Clempson is better than South Carolina. Louisville and Kentucky are close.

Grabbing one Florida school and Clempson would seem to make sense.

Kentucky is a basketball state and grabbing Louisville would be risky. They could really easily learn how to suck bad.

Getting into new states would also make sense with a couple of schools. Get two big time programs in Texas would be huge and there are ties to schools in Texas.

The state of Oklahoma isn't as natural, although Arkansas has some history there.

Maryland is the school that I have seen mentioned that doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Maryland has been good at times, but not great. Sure, Maryland is the best school in Maryland, but that is a big so what.

The state of Virginia makes a lot of sense to me. Virginia Tech may be the best team in the ACC and is definitely the best in the state. If taking Virginia was required, it wouldn't be bad either. They aren't bad.

Missouri is good enough, but lacks the tradition and would be very awkward.

Kansas and Kansas State have the potential to be the next Kentuckys.; 7:54 PM
FSJ said...: On Finebaum yesterday, Gene Stallings sounded like he favored a move to the SEC

He's on the Board at A&M.; 7:55 PM
Unknown said...: I have read Stallings and several people are all for the SEC.

I also found it interesting that the governor of Texas is an A&M grad, which might make it easier for A&M to get their way.

I haven't heard of anyone at Texas pushing to come to the SEC.; 8:01 PM
Miller said...: SEC official has said that the SEC does not have plans on inviting GT, Clemson, Miami, or FSU....

thank goodness...

It seems we have TAMU.. so now, do we go for 14 or to 16?
If to 14, who's #14? Mizzou or Kansas (Kansas is getting passed over by PAC for Utah)....VaTech... ?
If to 16, I would guess Slive would set sights on UNC/Duke and 1 other of the 3 mentioned above.; 8:04 PM
Miller said...: Remember that Virginia did not want VaTech to join the ACC when they did.... so, I don't think it would be necessary to take one without the other.; 8:17 PM
Unknown said...: I think UNC/Duke would make it a lot more likely to get Va Tech. That's an excellent trio and they're identified almost as much as rivals as UVA. UNC and Duke have a national basketball audience. Va Tech brings some football power.

I don't see them as ready to move but money may talk.

VT/UVA is a strong rivalry but nothing near the level of AU/UA. They'll be satisfied playing each other out of conference.; 8:26 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: ScottieB - Brown was 52 his last 4 years, but somewhere I got the notion he wore 84 during his true freshman year (didn't play, redshirted). I think that was 1998 but I can't find a roster.
Doesn't matter, his day is over :-); 8:26 PM
CHB said...: I repeat my comments from before. Look beyond football. Why not at KU? They are better at football consistently than at least two of our current programs, but what they bring in basketball is only matched by one other team.; 8:27 PM
CHB said...: at=add; 8:30 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: take it from someone in NC, UNC & Duke ain't going to the SEC. You've got to smoke some really good hash to think that can happen.

as I said before, it's sooooo not going to happen that I'd eat a molecule of onion if it did. I don't even it onion quarks, much less molecules.; 8:38 PM
Jet said...: If the Texas-Oklahoma group is out ... try this one on for size.

16 teams -- 4 divisions
(8 games ... 3 division opponents, 3 permanents from other divisions, 2 rotating opponents)

WEST
A&M
Mizzou
Kansas
Ark

NEXT to WEST
Alabama
LSU
State
OM

NEXT to EAST
Auburn
Vandy
UK
Tennessee

EAST
Florida
Georgia
South Carolina
WVU or Va. Tech; 8:41 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Jet - I don't think the NCAA is going to allow conference seminfinals and championship games.
No fair way to pick two of the 4 division winners.

Why not TAMU and TCU? I've always liked TCU and they aren't as far west as Austin; 8:46 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: I'll be very surprised if SEC goes to 16 unless it's from adding TAMU and 3 Big12 leftovers, or TAMU, TCU, and 2 Big12 leftovers. I just don't see an advantage of adding any of the potentially available schools east of the Mississippi. I.e. the Louisvilles of the world.

I may be wrong (again), but I perceive the ACC as very stable at the moment, and the only way we get an ACC school is if ACC is destabilized by Big Ten thievery.; 9:00 PM
Unknown said...: TCU would be the other team if we got A&M, but couldn't get Texas. I could see that. I couldn't see getting TCU without another Texas school.

And Texas Tech doesn't make much sense to me. No tradition with the SEC and bad geographically.

I am not sure why anyone would be against GT or FSU. Auburn has had great series with both of them, and the wreck tech pajama party coming back would be cool.

Clempson has a bit of a history with Auburn, but them and Georgia had a good ole fashion hate fest going on for a long time. They are interesting.

I do hope we see a mix of expansioning as well as strengthening a current states.

I have seen people wanting Southern Miss and Troy too. Neither are at the level I think the SEC would go after, and Bama would pitch a fit if they had to play Troy.; 9:01 PM
Unknown said...: My best guess would be the SEC adds A&M, Virginia Tech, GT, and FSU.; 9:02 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: GT left the SEC; I wouldn't let them back in.
Why on earth did they leave?

FSU turned us down once; don't know if they'll get lucky enough to be invited again.

I don't think TN, SC, or GA would want Clempson, historically, I think, AU's most common non-conference opponent.; 9:12 PM
Unknown said...: Georgia would love Clempson.

The thing is that what happens has to consider how good the programs are likely to be in the future and how good they have traditionally been.

I am surprised I haven't seen more talk of GT, but Clempson seems to be getting more attention.

FSU just seems like a no brainer to me. Florida would love it. We had a great rivalry with them. I can't see a downside there.

I hope we don't see Miami. I never have really cared for them.; 9:17 PM
Jet said...: THT ...

I'm not saying there'll be a semi and a title game. It's just a way to protect some, but not all, of the traditional rivalry games.

In some ways, it will have to go back to the old days where championships are decided without every team playing each other like we used to do with the Sugar Bowl as the prize. In this case, it would be a spot in the championship game.

Two of ESPN reporters are saying Miami, FSU, Ga. Tech and Clemson will NOT be invited.; 9:18 PM
Miller said...: Again...Being reported (separately) by 2 different individuals from ESPN...
"SEC official has said that the SEC does not have plans on inviting GT, Clemson, Miami, or FSU...."

THT,
You don't think UNC/Duke would even consider a move if the SEC added Kansas? Can you imagine a conference with UNC/Duke/Kansas/Kentucky? That would form the preeminent basketball conference in the nation (the Big East/ACC would be tough top to bottom, but nobody could claim 4 of the top 7 programs nationwide like that...)

Kansas would look to join the SEC or Big10 because they want to be in a BCS conference, and from the sound of it, Utah has the inside edge on them going to the PACxx. MWC has put out feelers for KU's interest, and it's not being reciprocated.; 9:18 PM
Miller said...: Clemson is only getting attention from you, steve... nobody else wants them in the SEC. We already have 1 useless bunch from SC, we don't need a second from the tiny state.; 9:20 PM
Jet said...: Miller ...

JINX!; 9:21 PM
Miller said...: I had already said it once... it just seemed that no one listened to me... maybe with both of us saying it, someone will take notice.; 9:24 PM
Miller said...: double jinx... buy me a coke; 9:24 PM
Miller said...: Quick change of subject...
Florida just punched it's ticket to Omaha... they are the SEC's youngest team, and will be tough for the next few years.
Also, their win today makes it 18 straight years that the SEC has had at least 1 team in Omaha.... impressive!; 9:25 PM
Unknown said...: Miller, read and learn and realize the foolishness of your statement.; 9:27 PM
Miller said...: Is there anything better than college baseball in June? The "Ping" of the aluminum bats, Omaha... it doesn't get any better.

Well... only gets better if AU was still playing.; 9:27 PM
Jet said...: Dawg Sports > ESPN

Facial!; 9:28 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: THT,
You don't think UNC/Duke would even consider a move...

Miller - nope, not even for a nanosecond (I hope Michael isn't lurking).
I'd be all in favor, but I don't get a vote.; 9:29 PM
Unknown said...: Or read this one; 9:29 PM
Unknown said...: Or maybe this one.; 9:31 PM
Miller said...: I'm sorry... so sorry... I didn't realize there was an opinion piece written by a Dawg fan out there that backed up your statements...

I'll retract everything I have said, and refrain from making informed/sensible comments in the future.; 9:31 PM
Unknown said...: Or this one

Wow, has it ever been easier to prove someone is full of crap?; 9:32 PM
Jet said...: Train Island ... yes, he's a giant in journalism.; 9:34 PM
Unknown said...: Or maybe this one that describes Clemson as the perfect fit.

Next time thinking before you post my be appropriate. I have been continually reading about Clempson as a possible candidate. To have someone say that I am that only one for it is just laughable. Sometimes you kids tickle me.; 9:35 PM
Unknown said...: Ironically, I am not really for it, but see it as one of the more likely options if the SEC goes to 16.; 9:37 PM
Miller said...: You got me... What was written on a fansite days ago is much more credible than ESPN reporters comments after talking to conference AD's and officials today....; 9:38 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Steve - the last link you provided finishes the Clemson talk with this:
Verdict?: Great match stylistically, but not as profitable as other high-profile schools.

Where da gold at? Well, it ain't in Clempson. End of discussion.; 9:38 PM
Jet said...: If it floats your boat, here's the TV market rankings.

http://www.tvb.org/rcentral/markettrack/us_hh_by_dma.asp; 9:39 PM
Miller said...: Clemson is a perfect fit... if you don't consider the business aspect of the whole thing.... then they don't make a bit of sense.; 9:41 PM
Unknown said...: Perhaps the problem is a lack of understanding of the word nobody.

As for what I would consider ideal, I would prefer the SEC to expand west and Auburn end up in the East. I just find it highly unlikely we get four teams from the west.; 9:41 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Jet - what's the rest of that URL?; 9:42 PM
Unknown said...: That URL worked for me. It looks like Clemson would be in the #36 market. Atlanta is 8th, but Georgia is probably more prevalent there than Tech, even with Tech in town.; 9:45 PM
Miller said...: You're right... maybe I should have said anyone with intelligence and sensibility...; 9:45 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: tv market rank; 9:46 PM
Jay G. Tate said...: I like Alaska-Fairbanks. That would be a fun trip.; 9:46 PM
Unknown said...: College Station is reasonably close to Houston, isn't it?; 9:46 PM
Jet said...: THT ... I just copied it from the site ... if it doesn't work ... just Google "TV market rankings" and it should be first.; 9:46 PM
Unknown said...: Don't leave yourself out of the conversation, Miller.; 9:47 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Hey Homer! Did you have a good WC day?; 9:48 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Of the top 26 markets, I think we can count out making any inroads in NYC, LA, Chicago, Philly, San Fran, Boston, Phoenix, San Fran, Sea-Tac, Detroit, etc etc

We already own Atl and Orlando, maybe even Tampa.

D.C. is a pro town and I don't see much opportunity there from a college perspective.

Targets: DFW, Houston, RDU, Charlotte, St. Louis.; 9:54 PM
Unknown said...: And here is Chris Low of ESPN talking about Clempson.; 9:55 PM
Unknown said...: Miami obviously has the TV market, but I still can't see that one happening. Yea, there is plenty of talk about it.; 9:56 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: conference expansion is driven solely by the $.
As much sense as Clemson makes geographically and culturally, it makes no cents, i.e. no inroads into new TV markets; 9:58 PM
Unknown said...: With the Saint Louis and Kansas City TV markets, it would seem Missouri would be attractive, and possibly that is a reason for the Big10s interest in them. But without SEC tie ins, I find that one hard to see. Quality whys, they are good enough and have a decent TV market, but they just aren't a good logical fit.; 9:59 PM
Unknown said...: THT, Clemson would be the 36th TV market, which isn't bad. Also, the tie ins with Georgia would make it more attractive.

I would actually favor kicking South Carolina out of the SEC instead, but I doubt that would happen.

Here is Columbia, it is definitely a divided TV market, but the ACC does seem to be more prevalent, and that is with South Carolina in town.; 10:02 PM
Unknown said...: Ironically, Bham is 40th, so possibly Clempson is a better choice than Bama:); 10:03 PM
Unknown said...: As for UNC and Duke, you are right. That is something I would be shocked if ever occurred. North Carolina is a basketball state, period. Those schools are the heart of the ACC and if they left, there would likely have to be no more ACC.; 10:04 PM
Unknown said...: By the way, TV market doesn't necessarily = dollars. That would be the underwear knome strategy.; 10:06 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: there's just no way to add 4 teams from out west if Tx & OU aren't included. You could end up with a woefully weak SEC West like
TAMU
MO
Kansas
KS
LSwho
Arky
OM
MSU

Putting AU, UA-T, TN, GA, and FL all in one division.

So maybe they compromise. Add a couple of TX schools to grab that TV market, and a couple of sensible but noncentsical eastern schools (e.g. Clempson); 10:07 PM
Unknown said...: That is what I see happening, two schools for the west and two for the east. I really don't like the idea of the Kansas schools.

The question is, if not FSU, Clempson, and GT; what Eastern schools would make sense?

Maryland getting mentioned baffles me.

Virginia schools doesn't sound crazy, but it doesn't sound likely.; 10:10 PM
Unknown said...: The other piece of the pie could be if the Big10 goes after ACC and Big East schools. You could see teams jumping ship from the ACC.; 10:12 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: I doubt Big Ten raids ACC (Maryland), but if they did, would that destabilize the ACC? I have my doubts. There was talk of adding Syracuse instead of VTech several years ago (UVA didn't want VTech in the ACC), so ACC might take 'cuse to get back to 12. The big loser would be the big east, since Big Ten might also take Pitt & Rutgers.; 10:17 PM
Unknown said...: As for why GT left the SEC, it was when I was a kid and I don't remember it, but I have read stories. I just found one of them. It might be right and it might not. It really sounds to stupid to be true, but sometimes things are just stoopid.; 10:23 PM
Unknown said...: Ironically, what I read was someone thinking the SEC might take Virginia Tech and Maryland. I can't imagine why Maryland to the SEC would make any sense at all. Yea, there is probably a big TV market, but for the SEC? I don't think so.; 10:24 PM
michael said...: You know what I learned today? I learned that England has a soccer player that looks just like Flea.; 11:58 PM
chip chip said...: rooney should play in his skivies (for the ladies).; 12:03 AM
ehyou said...: The Tower of Power was a tight band.; 12:17 AM
ehyou said...: Bonaroo was this weekend. I bet those cats there are having fun right about now.; 12:19 AM
Norm said...: Morning Hotties

cincy - a detached retina is what ails me even after surgically repairing it 7 months ago. Be careful and do whatever it is they say you should do to avoid it. I do not recommend one.; 6:50 AM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: slow HABOTN morning. Glad to see Norm is not burning the daylight like the rest of us.

Jay Ratliff says there are 83 days til kickoff.

GO TIGERS!!!

WARRRRRRRRR EAGLE!!!; 9:31 AM
digger4au said...: SAVE YHE BIG XII
Move Oklahoma and Oklahoma State
to the north division. Add TCU and Houston (or SMU) to the south div.
create a TV network that includes Texas, Kansas, Missori and Oklahoma. Other bordering states could be included.
For now keep the SEC as is.; 9:55 AM
Unknown said...: Digger, that sounds like a pretty good idea, although I am not sure it would happen. But the idea of the Big12 bringing in more Texas schools would be very interesting.; 11:46 AM
Unknown said...: I have been seeing some tweets to support what digger suggested. The Big12 may not be dead. The latest seems to be the Big12 trying to work a better TV deal.; 3:10 PM
CHB said...: I've read some good stuff on recruits today. Miller and WTC might know more, but I think Jones, Rose, Florence and Frost are AU locks. There are a couple others that could pull the trigger at any time.; 3:29 PM
Unknown said...: Florence appears to be an Auburn lock, from what I have seen. I have been following him on facebook. He seems like a good kid.; 3:32 PM
Unknown said...: I never considered the possibility that A&M's desire for the ACC and unwillingness to head to the PacX could actually end up saving the Big12-1-1.

Until a conference adds a thirteenth team, it seems that there is a pretty good chance of things settling down.; 3:35 PM
Unknown said...: Did Colorado jump to the PacX too quick, fearing Baylor taking their place in the Big South move? It is arguable as to whether the Big12 or PacX is the better conference, although Nebraska going to the Big10 makes it a closer comparison. The Big10 clearly has been the winner in what has happened so far.; 3:45 PM
ehyou said...: Bravos take 2/3 from 1st place Twins. Really playing solid baseball right now. I sure hope they can keep it up.; 4:00 PM
Peter Frankenschmidt said...: If a TV market is huge and no one is watching, does it stiill make a noise?

Make like a tree and shut the heck up, already.; 5:04 PM
Peter Frankenschmidt said...: You folks are ruining this blog.; 5:06 PM
Anonymous said...: Wow ..I'm reading through the comments and am just wondering if Miller ever gets embarrassed making those authoritative, incorrect declarative statements.

Take this statement: "I know 3 year olds that could stop that goal". Now ..I want to meet those 3 year olds, because most 3 year olds I know would have their soft bones broken by a world cup soccer world cup shot on goal. BTW Miller, don't bother playing the sarcasm card again, cause if that is really your form of sarcasm it is so lame it never needs to be used again.

Next Miller obviously just scans SFCs "manuscripts" and totally wrongly attacks him. At this point in the realignment, Miller would have to had a personal guarantee from Slive to know who is right or wrong or what will happen. I imagine Slive himself doesn't know and if he is smart isn't ruling anything out. Relying on ESPN talking heads to support your argument is more wrong than what SFC was accused of. Steve only said that folks were talking about Clemson and backed it up with a whole bunch of links.

No sports writer has been even close to right yet, so why would Miller give credit to any particular 1 or 2 of them. In fact, the sportswriters have been as inconsistent and wrong as Miller is with his ongoing recruiting update statements.

So to go back to the opening point of this diatribe. If you make declarative authoritative statements on speculative subjects, you will be wrong most of the time.

SFC at least posts his thoughts as speculation instead of know-it-all fact. Miller's attacking SFC just sheds light on how lame his own statements are.; 5:07 PM
Anonymous said...: If anyone wants to bet on their realignment scoop, I'll take the bet that they are wrong.; 5:11 PM
digger4au said...: My realignment statement is one man's opinion and has no backup. DeLoss Dodd did not clue me in on his secrets. I have not talked to anyone at ESPN.
To me that would just be sensible which is why it probably won't happen. (9:55AM statement); 5:21 PM
Honey said...: Who has a report on the 2010 signees? Have they all reported to Auburn for this next mini-mester? Do they have to do everything on their own or are they given a workout schedule? Do they have any contact with the coaches yet? Just wondering how all this works.; 5:34 PM
Anonymous said...: Digger ....at this point anything could happen. Too many variables for anyone to predict. "Inside" information is too many times given out as disinformation and is more often not true than true. Americans now seem to accept disinformation because they enjoy having more to gossip about.

If the SEC were to expand, I would like to see aTm and OK go to the west, AU move to the east and stop at 14 teams. If more than that, I think that Va Tech would be important. These moves place economics over rivalries, but if the reason to expand is to keep up economically, then make the best economic moves.; 5:40 PM
Anonymous said...: Cincy ..great question. It has probably already been cataloged and reported somewhere on the interwebs.; 5:43 PM
ehyou said...: Have y'all heard about this conference expansion thing? Does anyone have any thoughts?; 6:29 PM
Tar Heel Tiger said...: Hoopie - my authorative declarative on expansion is as follows:

I have, and I need to reverse it.; 6:48 PM
CHB said...: Cincy, I think everyone except Richardson is or will be on campus this fall. As far as working out they are given a work out plan. They can have contact with coaches but they can't be "coached".; 6:49 PM
Anonymous said...: NCAA Baseball:

Florida, USCe, FSU and TCU have qualified for the CWS. Vandy didn't. The infidels are up 1 game to 0 on Clemson and losing 9-3 in the 5th inning of the 2nd game.; 7:36 PM
Unknown said...: There is an article on expansion at this A&M site.; 7:44 PM
Anonymous said...: Even if other conferences become "super" and the SEC doesn't, it will be a tall order to overtake the SEc as the "best" conference.

The SEC fanaticism will ensure that there are always the best athletes, best coaches, filled, huge stadiums, intense play on the field and incredible game environments in the SEC. College football fans everywhere enjoy watching SEC games for those reasons.

A few more or less "major markets" won't greatly affect the SEC standing. That may however, allow another conference to get closer to the SEC and to make a lot more money.; 7:47 PM
Unknown said...: Until today, I was convinced the Big12 would fold once Nebraska left. Digger and some other articles I read make me think it is very possible that A&M could cause the Big12 to stay together by refusing to go to the PacX. From what I have read, 2/3 of the board at A&M want to go to the SEC.

Hoopie is right that nobody knows. There is a lot of guessing going on. Even Texas may not know what they are going to do, so how could I? If politicians get involved, it gets real messy.

I favor the SEC expanding West, with Auburn getting moved to the East, but I don't think that is the likeliest scenario.

As I said previously, until some conference takes a 13th team, things could stabilize with the everyone going to 12 teams.; 7:54 PM
Unknown said...: Here is an article that makes some good points. The biggest point being that if A&M and Oklahoma come to the SEC, it would be very difficult for Texas not to follow, which would be ironic in itself.; 8:03 PM
digger4au said...: Are we close to flipping?; 8:05 PM
digger4au said...: No substance Flip; 8:06 PM