Big 12 Football: 3 programs most appealing to the PAC-12
Oklahoma State
On the surface, one of the first schools that comes to mind in terms of bigger name expansion candidates of the eight remaining in the Big 12 is the Oklahoma State Cowboys. It seemed really weird at first to consider a move for Texas and Oklahoma leaving to the Big 12 for the greener pastures of the SEC.
That is especially true considering that it seemed like the Oklahoma schools were once a package in the hypothetical super conference realignment conversation.
But now Oklahoma State is left out in the cold, and there could only be a couple of realistic options on the table for that school. Oklahoma State does have a decently big brand, a competitive athletic program across the board, and a particularly recognizable and competitive football program under the direction of head coach Mike Gundy.
From the perspective of recent success in football, Oklahoma State and TCU might be the most potent additions that the PAC-12 could bring into the mix. But the problem with Oklahoma State is the fact that the previous presumed other half to that package deal in conference realignment (the Sooners) is now headed for the SEC. It might be easier for the PAC-12 to get a combination of schools like TCU and Baylor, instead of mixing and matching with Oklahoma State and a few others.
Next. 10 most appealing schools in Big 12 expansion. dark
Nonetheless, you can’t ignore Gundy and the Pokes from a football perspective if the PAC-12 wanted to expand with the idea of success in this sport in mind. The PAC-12 could use more competitive football, basketball, and even baseball programs. Oklahoma State could provide all of that for that conference.