How will Pac-12 Compete in the College Football Playoff Schedule?
USC and UCLA’s Departure: The decision by USC and UCLA to leave for the Big Ten in 2024 has caused significant upheaval. Colorado’s recent announcement to return to the Big 12 further highlights the instability.
Pac-12’s Uncertain Future: With only nine members left and no long-term media rights deal, the Pac-12 schools are scrambling. The conference’s commissioner, George Kliavkoff, seems blindsided by the departures, and there are concerns that the conference may be unsalvageable.
Impact on Regional Leagues: The article argues that the realignment may negatively impact the very thing it seeks to do: add value to traditionally regional leagues by pursuing national interest. The strategy of television executives to fill slots across time zones with compelling matchups may overlook the importance of regional rivalries and traditions.
Existential Threat: The commitment of Texas and Oklahoma to join the SEC two years ago forced other conferences to realign. The Big 12 and Pac-12 were particularly warned to pivot or perish. The Big 12 managed to solidify a media rights deal, but the Pac-12’s future remains uncertain.
Loss of Identity: The movement of teams like Missouri, Louisville, Nebraska, West Virginia, and Utah has changed the identity of conferences. The loss of Los Angeles for the Pac-12 and the lack of progressive ideas have further weakened the conference.
Survival Strategy: To survive, the Pac-12 must transform into a forward-thinking entity, starting with a media rights deal and a creative financial model. The conference must also consider expansion and retention strategies.
West Coast Football’s Future: The article concludes by emphasizing that West Coast teams will continue to be a factor in college football, but they may not have an influential league of their own. The current situation makes the Pac-12 the joke of college football, and the loss of an entire region’s influence would be a significant blow to the sport.
