Summary:

In today’s episode, we tackle the ongoing saga of UConn’s potential move to the Big 12. Despite the rumors and reports, if the vote wasn’t a done deal, why is all this information out in the open? We’ll discuss the latest developments, including insights from Justin Williams of The Athletic, who sheds light on the discussions within the Big 12. We’ll also explore whether UConn is being used as leverage for ACC schools and how the potential addition of UConn might impact the Big 12’s future.

Show Notes:

• Introduction:

• Welcome and a quick thank you to our listeners for making Locked On UConn their first listen every day.

• Request for listeners to subscribe and follow the podcast to help it grow.

• Segment 1:

• Guest: Justin Williams, senior writer for The Athletic, covering college football and basketball.

• Discussion on the recent news drop about UConn’s potential move to the Big 12.

• Questions addressed:

• If the vote to extend an invite to UConn wasn’t a done deal, why has this been leaked so openly?

• Is a vote imminent? What are the main concerns or hesitations among Big 12 presidents?

• Insights into what reignited these discussions after they were reportedly off the table last summer.

• Ad Breaks:

• 5-hour ENERGY®: A quick, convenient pick-me-up with zero sugar. Use promo code LOCKEDONCFB for 20% off your order at 5hourenergy.com.

• The Feel Good Lab: Personal wellness journey with plant-based pain relief and recovery tools. Use code “CAMSPENCER” for 12% off and contribute 10% to Bleeding Blue For Good.

• Segment 2:

• Discussion on whether UConn is being used as a leverage ploy to influence ACC schools.

• The potential impact of UConn’s football program joining the Big 12 later, tied to the next TV rights contract.

• How differing stances from ESPN and Fox could influence the decision.

• Ad Breaks:

• FanDuel: An opportunity to get involved with the latest in sports betting and fantasy sports.

• Factor Meals: Healthy, no-prep meals delivered to your door. Use code lockedoncollege50 for 50% off your first box and 20% off your next month.

• Segment 3:

• Exploration of the tension between UConn’s basketball success and the struggles of its football program within the context of Big 12’s expansion strategy.

• Predictions on how these discussions might evolve in the coming weeks and whether UConn will end up in the Big 12 or stay in the Big East.

• Conclusion:

• Final thoughts and thanks to the listeners.

• Encouragement to check out the Locked On College Football podcast for more in-depth coverage on conference realignment and the upcoming season.