You're right, there's a growing movement and significant discussion around potentially expanding the College Football Playoff (CFP) to 16 teams, with a specific emphasis on automatic bids (AQ) for the power conferences, particularly the SEC and Big Ten.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of this movement:

The Push for Expansion:

• Dissatisfaction with 12-Team Format: While the 12-team format is new for the 2024 season, there's already a sense among some power brokers, particularly in the SEC and Big Ten, that it may not be the optimal long-term solution.   

• Desire for More Representation: The SEC and Big Ten, boasting the most highly-ranked teams and perceived strength in depth, are reportedly pushing for a format that guarantees more spots for their conferences.   

• Financial Incentives: A larger playoff field would likely generate even more revenue from television deals, further benefiting the participating conferences and institutions.

The Proposed 16-Team Format:

• Multiple Automatic Bids: The central tenet of this movement is to allocate multiple automatic bids to the power conferences based on their perceived strength and number of quality teams.   

• Four Autobids for SEC and Big Ten: The most frequently discussed model involves granting four automatic bids each to the SEC and the Big Ten. This would essentially guarantee a significant representation from these two conferences in the 16-team field.   

• Two Autobids for ACC and Big 12: The ACC and Big 12 are often mentioned as receiving two automatic bids each under this model.   

• One Autobid for Group of Five: A single automatic bid is typically proposed for the highest-ranked champion from the Group of Five conferences (Mountain West, American, Sun Belt, Conference USA, MAC).
• Remaining At-Large Bids: The remaining three spots in the 16-team field would be filled by at-large selections, presumably based on the CFP selection committee's rankings of the best remaining teams. Some discussions even suggest one of these at-large bids could be specifically for Notre Dame if they meet certain ranking criteria.

Rationale Behind the Four Autobids for SEC and Big Ten:

• Perceived Dominance: Proponents argue that the SEC and Big Ten consistently field the largest number of elite teams and deserve greater representation to ensure the "best" teams are in the playoff.   

• Maximizing Revenue: Guaranteeing more participation from the top brands in these conferences would likely drive higher television ratings and thus greater revenue.
• Regular Season Importance: The idea of "inner-league play-in games" at the end of the season has been floated, where teams within the conference would compete for these automatic bids, potentially increasing the significance of late-season matchups beyond just the conference championship game. For example, the 3rd vs 6th and 4th vs 5th ranked teams in the conference could play for an AQ spot.   

Potential Implications and Concerns:

• Devaluation of Regular Season: Critics argue that guaranteeing so many spots to specific conferences could diminish the importance of regular-season games, as teams with multiple losses could still make the playoff due to the automatic bid structure.
• Reduced Role of Selection Committee: With 11 automatic bids in a 16-team field, the selection committee's influence in choosing the participants would be significantly reduced. Their primary role would shift to seeding the teams.
• Fairness to Other Conferences: The ACC, Big 12, and Group of Five could argue that this format disproportionately favors the SEC and Big Ten and doesn't provide equitable access to the playoff for other deserving teams.
• Potential for Less Intriguing Matchups: If a significant portion of the field is filled by teams from the same two conferences, it could lead to less geographic diversity and potentially more rematches in the playoff.

Current Status and Future Outlook:

• Growing Support: Reports indicate that the 16-team model with these AQ allocations is indeed gaining traction and support among decision-makers in the SEC and Big Ten.
• Power Four Meetings: Commissioners from the Power Four conferences have been meeting to discuss future playoff formats.   

• Decision Expected Soon: A decision on whether the CFP will expand further and adopt a new format is anticipated in the next month or two, potentially with implementation as early as the 2026 season (when the current agreement with ESPN ends and a new one begins).
• SEC and Big Ten Leverage: Due to their financial power and the terms of the new CFP contract, the SEC and Big Ten hold significant influence over the future format.   

In conclusion, there is a clear and growing movement, driven largely by the SEC and Big Ten, towards expanding the College Football Playoff to 16 teams with a format that includes four automatic bids for each of those conferences, along with fewer at-large selections. While proponents argue it ensures the best teams participate and maximizes revenue, critics raise concerns about the devaluation of the regular season and fairness to other conferences. The coming months are likely to be crucial in determining the future structure of the CFP. 

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Recent rumors circulating are regarding the potential future conference affiliations of Kansas and Colorado, specifically mentioning a move to the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Regarding Kansas:

• Rumors about Kansas potentially joining the SEC have surfaced on message boards, particularly around the idea of the SEC expanding to 20 teams.
• Some discussions suggest that the increasing value of basketball could make Kansas, a historically strong basketball program, an attractive target for the SEC.
• However, these remain largely speculative discussions among fans. Some analysts and fans question the fit, noting that Kansas doesn't necessarily add a significant new television market to the SEC footprint, unlike potential additions in the ACC.
• There was a report in May 2024 about Kansas being a potential SEC target if the conference expanded further, but this was based on message board chatter and speculation.

Regarding Colorado:

• While Colorado officially rejoined the Big 12 in the fall of 2024 after leaving the Pac-12, there have been some discussions and hypotheticals about their long-term conference future.
• Some message board conversations have included Colorado as a potential SEC target in very hypothetical scenarios, particularly if there were significant further realignment.
• However, much of the recent news surrounding Colorado's conference moves has focused on their return to the Big 12 and the financial incentives involved in that decision.
• There was a brief mention in April 2025 of Colorado being a potential transfer destination for a quarterback, with the SEC being off-limits due to conference rules, implying their current non-SEC status.

General Considerations about Message Board Rumors:

• It's important to treat information found on message boards as largely speculative and unverified. These forums often contain fan theories, wishful thinking, and conjecture rather than confirmed sources.
• Conference realignment is a complex process involving numerous factors, including media rights, geography, athletic performance, and institutional relationships. Actual decisions are typically made by university and conference leadership, often behind closed doors.
• While message board discussions can sometimes reflect underlying sentiments or potential scenarios, they should not be taken as factual reporting.

In summary, while the idea of Kansas and Colorado joining the SEC might be a topic of discussion among fans on message boards, there is no concrete or widely reported evidence to suggest that these moves are imminent or actively being pursued by the universities or the SEC at this time. Both schools are currently members of the Big 12 (Colorado having just rejoined), and any future realignment decisions would likely involve significant strategic considerations beyond message board speculation.

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Is the ACC's potential division restructuring a game-changer or a misstep? As the Big 12 Squad dives into the latest college football buzz, they explore the implications of North Carolina's rumored Big Ten move and the ripple effects on the college sports landscape. With insights from Drake, Cameron, and other panelists, the discussion covers player transfers, tampering allegations, and the impact of NIL deals on athlete loyalty. The conversation also touches on the role of agents in shaping college athletics, with Paul sharing firsthand experiences. Join the debate and discover how these developments could reshape the future of college football. Listen now for exclusive insights and expert analysis.

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You're spot on. The potential fit of UNLV into the Big 12 Conference looks increasingly promising, offering benefits for both the university and the league. Here's a breakdown of why it makes good sense:

Tapping into a Unique and Growing Market:

• Las Vegas Media Exposure: Adding UNLV would give the Big 12 a significant foothold in the vibrant and expanding Las Vegas media market. This untapped territory could lead to increased viewership, advertising opportunities, and overall brand visibility for the conference.   

• "Sports Capital" Synergy: Las Vegas has firmly established itself as a global hub for major sporting events. UNLV's presence in the Big 12 could create exciting collaborations and opportunities to showcase the conference within this dynamic environment, attracting national attention.   

• Tourism and Fan Engagement: UNLV's location in a major tourist destination presents unique possibilities for fan engagement and potential neutral-site conference events, drawing visitors and boosting the Big 12's profile.

Elevating Athletic Programs in a Power Conference:

• Ascending Football Program: UNLV's football team has demonstrated significant progress recently, highlighted by their 2024 Mountain West Championship appearance. Their access to the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium and the Fertitta Football Complex signals a commitment to competing at a high level, making them a more compelling Power Four addition.
• Basketball Potential and History: While aiming for consistent national prominence, UNLV's rich basketball history and passionate fanbase provide a strong foundation. The resources and competition within the Big 12 could be the catalyst to elevate their program back to national relevance.
• Comprehensive Athletic Offerings: UNLV sponsors a wide array of athletic programs that are competitive within the Mountain West, adding depth and breadth to the Big 12's overall athletic portfolio.

Strategic Geographic Alignment:

• Western Expansion and Regional Matchups: UNLV's location in Southern Nevada strategically aligns with the Big 12's growing western footprint, creating natural regional rivalries with Arizona, Utah, and potentially other future additions. This can help manage travel costs and enhance fan interest.
• National Reach: Adding a program in the Mountain West region further broadens the Big 12's national presence and appeal to recruits across the country.

Institutional Strengths:

• Research Focus: UNLV's Carnegie R1 classification as a doctoral university with very high research activity aligns with the academic standards of many Big 12 institutions.   

• Growing Enrollment and Fanbase: As a large and expanding public university with a diverse student body, UNLV offers a growing and engaged fanbase for Big 12 athletics.

Leadership Connections and Momentum:

• Familiar Athletic Director: UNLV Athletic Director Erick Harper's deep ties to the Big 12 through his time at Kansas State could facilitate a smoother transition and integration into the conference.   

• Increasing Buzz: The growing speculation and "whispers" surrounding UNLV as a potential Power Four target, specifically within the Big 12, indicate a mutual interest and a recognition of the potential benefits on both sides.

In conclusion, the addition of UNLV to the Big 12 appears to be a mutually beneficial proposition. UNLV gains the prestige, resources, and enhanced competition of a Power Four conference, while the Big 12 gains access to a dynamic and growing market in Las Vegas, bolsters its western presence, and adds improving athletic programs with significant potential. It's a fit that seems to align well with the strategic goals of both the university and the evolving Big 12 Conference.

Sources and related content

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While there haven't been officially confirmed investigations or widespread reports of BYU tampering with other specific Big 12 schools' players in the transfer portal, the topic has certainly generated discussion and some accusations, primarily from rival fanbases. Here's a breakdown of the situation and the context:

Key Themes in the Rumors and Discussions:

• Utah Rivalry: The most prominent rumors and accusations of tampering involve the University of Utah. Given the intense "Holy War" rivalry between BYU and Utah, any player movement from Utah to BYU (or vice versa) often sparks immediate speculation among fans. Some Utah fans have voiced concerns online about potential improper contact or inducements from BYU before players officially enter the portal.
• NIL as a Factor: The advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities has added a new layer to the transfer portal landscape. There are concerns across college sports that schools or their boosters might be using NIL deals to entice players to transfer, potentially constituting tampering if contact occurs before the player is in the portal. BYU, with a dedicated and potentially well-funded alumni base, has been mentioned in these broader discussions, though not always with specific evidence of tampering.
• Baylor Allegations: There was a notable instance in April 2025 where a personality associated with Baylor's Locked On podcast accused BYU of tampering in relation to a Baylor transfer. This highlights how the competitive nature of recruiting within the Big 12 can lead to such accusations.   
  
  
   
• General Suspicions: As BYU enters the Big 12 with increased resources and a national profile, some fans of other Big 12 schools might be moreQuick to suspect tampering when players choose to transfer to Provo, even without concrete evidence. This can be fueled by the perception that BYU now has the means (including NIL) to be a more aggressive recruiter.

Important Considerations:

• Lack of Concrete Evidence: It's crucial to emphasize that the vast majority of these discussions are based on speculation, fan theories, and anecdotal observations rather than confirmed investigations or official reports of wrongdoing by BYU.
• Difficulty in Proving Tampering: Tampering is notoriously difficult to prove. A player's decision to transfer can be influenced by numerous legitimate factors, and demonstrating improper pre-portal contact is challenging.
• BYU's Compliance: BYU, as an institution with a strong emphasis on rules and conduct, would face significant repercussions if found to have engaged in widespread tampering.

Past NCAA Issues for BYU Athletics:

It's worth noting that BYU's athletic programs have faced NCAA scrutiny in the past, though these instances don't directly relate to current tampering allegations within the Big 12:

• BYU Basketball (2018-2019): The BYU men's basketball program was penalized by the NCAA for providing improper benefits (including travel, entertainment, and cash) to a former player by boosters. This resulted in vacated wins, probation, a fine, and recruiting restrictions.   
   

In summary, while rumors and accusations of BYU tampering with other Big 12 schools' players exist, particularly concerning Utah, there is no widespread evidence of systematic violations or ongoing NCAA investigations into the matter as of today, May 6, 2025. The discussions are often fueled by rivalries, the new landscape of NIL and the transfer portal, and general speculation. It's important to distinguish between fan conjecture and confirmed wrongdoing.

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North Carolina and Notre Dame represent arguably the two most coveted potential expansion targets for the Big Ten Conference. Their appeal stems from a confluence of factors that align with the conference's strategic goals.

North Carolina: A Prime Target  

• Academic Excellence and AAU Membership: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill boasts a strong academic reputation and holds membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU), a key criterion for the Big Ten.   
  
  
   
• Strong Athletic Brand: UNC possesses a nationally recognized brand, particularly in basketball, but also with a solid football program and success in other Olympic sports. This broad athletic appeal adds significant value.
• Large Media Market: North Carolina represents a significant and growing media market, particularly the Raleigh and Charlotte areas. This would expand the Big Ten's reach into a new and valuable region.
• Southern Foothold: Adding UNC would give the Big Ten a crucial foothold in the South, a region rich in athletic talent and a strategic area for national expansion and recruiting.
• Recruiting Hotbed: North Carolina is a fertile recruiting ground for various sports, and the Big Ten's presence there could enhance recruiting opportunities for all member institutions.
• Historical Significance (ACC Ties): While currently a cornerstone of the ACC, UNC's potential departure would significantly weaken the ACC and further solidify the Big Ten's position as a dominant power conference.

Notre Dame: The Ultimate Prize

• Elite National Brand: The University of Notre Dame holds an unparalleled national brand in college football, with a massive and dedicated fanbase across the country. Their inclusion would instantly elevate the profile and prestige of any conference.   
  
  
   
• Media Rights Goldmine: Notre Dame's football games command significant television ratings. Adding them would substantially increase the value of the Big Ten's media rights deals.   
  
  
  
   
• Academic Respectability: While not an AAU member (a historical point of contention), Notre Dame possesses a strong academic reputation that generally aligns with the Big Ten's standards.
• Strategic Geographic Location: While Indiana already has Big Ten members (Indiana and Purdue), Notre Dame's location adds a unique national draw and doesn't necessarily create in-state competition concerns in the same way adding another Big Ten school in Indiana might.
• Historic Independence: Notre Dame's long-standing independence in football makes them a unique and highly sought-after commodity in conference realignment. Landing them would be a monumental coup for any conference.

Why the Big Ten Desires Them:

• Revenue Generation: Both North Carolina and Notre Dame would bring significant revenue through media rights, ticket sales, and merchandise.
• Competitive Balance: Adding strong athletic programs enhances the overall competitiveness and national relevance of the Big Ten.
• National Footprint: Expanding into new geographic regions increases the conference's national presence and appeal to recruits and fans.
• Long-Term Stability: Securing these blue-chip programs would contribute significantly to the Big Ten's long-term stability and position in the evolving college sports landscape.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Notre Dame's Independence: Notre Dame has fiercely guarded its football independence for decades, and convincing them to join a conference would be a significant hurdle. Financial incentives and the changing landscape of college football (like the expanded College Football Playoff) might eventually sway them.
• ACC Grant of Rights: North Carolina, along with other ACC members, is bound by a long-term Grant of Rights agreement that makes leaving the conference financially prohibitive without a significant legal challenge or settlement.   
  
  
   
• Potential Counter-Offers: The SEC would also be highly interested in adding North Carolina and potentially Notre Dame, leading to a potential bidding war if either becomes available.

In conclusion, North Carolina and Notre Dame represent the "white whales" of Big Ten expansion. Their strong brands, academic standing (in UNC's case, AAU membership), media market appeal, and athletic prowess make them exceptionally attractive targets as the conference looks to solidify its position as one of the two dominant powers in college athletics. While significant obstacles exist, the potential benefits of adding either (or both) institutions would be transformative for the Big Ten.

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A potential return of Nebraska to the Big 12 Conference could offer significant advantages for both the university and the conference itself. Here's a breakdown of how such a move could be mutually beneficial:

For Nebraska:

• Renewed Rivalries: Returning to the Big 12 would reignite classic rivalries with teams like Oklahoma, Kansas, Kansas State, and potentially Missouri and Iowa State depending on conference alignment. These matchups boast historical significance and passionate fan bases, which could boost game attendance and media interest.
• Improved Recruiting in Key Areas: The Big 12 footprint has a strong presence in Texas, a crucial recruiting ground for many football programs. Nebraska's return could improve their access and visibility to talented high school players in the region, potentially bolstering their roster with more speed and athleticism, areas where they have struggled compared to Big Ten competition.
• Easier Path to Conference Success: While the Big 12 is a competitive conference, the top-to-bottom strength might be perceived as less daunting than the Big Ten, particularly its Eastern division. A return could provide Nebraska with a more realistic path to competing for conference championships, which could revitalize the program and fan enthusiasm.
• Increased National Relevance: Success in a Power Five conference like the Big 12 would elevate Nebraska's national profile. Playing in high-stakes games against familiar foes would generate media attention and potentially improve their College Football Playoff positioning if they perform well.
• Cultural Fit: Nebraska has a rich history within the Big 12's predecessor, the Big Eight. A return could resonate with the program's traditions and connect with a fan base that remembers those eras fondly.   

For the Big 12:

• Adding a Blue-Blood Program: Nebraska is a program with a storied history, national championships, and a large, passionate fan base. Their addition would instantly elevate the Big 12's prestige and national recognition, helping to fill the void left by the departures of Texas and Oklahoma.   

• Enhanced Media Value: Nebraska's strong following would bring significant viewership and market appeal to the Big 12's media rights. Their games, especially against traditional rivals, would be highly attractive to television networks, potentially increasing the conference's overall media revenue.
• Strengthened Conference Stability: Adding a program with Nebraska's stature would further solidify the Big 12's position as a major player in college athletics, providing long-term stability and attractiveness to other potential expansion candidates in the future.
• Geographic Expansion and Market Reach: While not a new market, Nebraska expands the Big 12's geographic footprint into the Plains states, potentially attracting fans and recruits from that region.
• Intriguing New Matchups and Storylines: The return of Nebraska would create a wealth of compelling new matchups and storylines within the Big 12, generating excitement and interest among fans across the conference. The rekindling of old rivalries would be a major selling point.

However, it's important to acknowledge potential hurdles:

• Financial Implications: Nebraska would need to weigh the financial aspects of switching conferences, considering potential differences in media rights deals and other revenue streams between the Big Ten and the Big 12.
• Big Ten Relationships: Nebraska has established relationships within the Big Ten over the past decade. Leaving could impact those connections and future non-conference scheduling.
• On-Field Performance: Nebraska would need to improve its on-field performance to capitalize on the benefits of a potential return to the Big 12. Simply changing conferences won't guarantee success.

In conclusion, a move back to the Big 12 could be a win-win scenario for both Nebraska and the conference. Nebraska would gain renewed rivalries, potentially an easier path to success, and improved recruiting opportunities, while the Big 12 would add a prestigious program with a large fan base and enhance its overall value and stability. The decision would ultimately come down to a careful evaluation of the strategic, financial, and athletic implications for both parties.

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While there haven't been any officially confirmed accusations or investigations involving Utah or Oklahoma State directly accusing BYU of tampering in the football transfer portal, the intense rivalry between Utah and BYU, coupled with the nature of the transfer portal, often leads to speculation and concerns among fans.

Here's a breakdown of the situation and the context surrounding it:

Understanding Tampering:

• In the context of the NCAA transfer portal, "tampering" refers to a school or its representatives (including coaches and boosters) contacting a student-athlete who is currently enrolled at another four-year institution before that athlete has officially entered the transfer portal.
• NCAA rules strictly prohibit such contact to maintain the integrity of the recruiting process and prevent schools from unduly influencing players who are still under contract with their current institution.

The Utah-BYU Context:

• The rivalry between the University of Utah and BYU is one of the most passionate in college sports. Any player movement between the two schools is highly scrutinized and can fuel suspicion among fans.
• When Utah players transfer to BYU, or vice versa, it often leads to allegations of tampering, even if there is no concrete evidence. Fans may speculate that improper contact or inducements occurred before the player officially entered the portal.   

• The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities has further complicated the landscape. There are concerns that boosters could be using NIL deals to entice players to transfer, potentially before they are in the portal, which would also constitute tampering.

Oklahoma State and the Broader Issue:

• While specific accusations from Oklahoma State regarding BYU haven't surfaced in the available information, concerns about tampering within the transfer portal are widespread across college football.
• Coaches at various programs, including potentially Oklahoma State, have voiced frustrations about the challenges of roster management in the transfer portal era and the potential for unethical recruiting practices.
• The open nature of the transfer portal, while providing flexibility for student-athletes, also creates opportunities for indirect contact and conversations that could be perceived as tampering.

Difficulty in Proving Tampering:

• Tampering is notoriously difficult to prove. Direct evidence of improper contact before a player enters the portal is often lacking.
• A player's decision to transfer can be influenced by numerous legitimate factors, such as playing time, coaching changes, academic opportunities, and personal preferences. Disentangling these factors from potential tampering is challenging.

NCAA Rules and Penalties:

• NCAA rules mandate that a student-athlete must notify their current school of their intent to transfer, and the school then has a limited time to enter the athlete's name into the transfer portal. Only after this occurs can other schools legally contact the athlete.   

• If a school is found guilty of tampering, potential penalties can include recruiting restrictions, fines, and suspensions for coaches.

In Summary:

While direct accusations from Utah or Oklahoma State specifically naming BYU for transfer portal tampering haven't been widely reported, the intense rivalry between Utah and BYU creates an environment where such allegations are easily made by fans when players transfer between the schools. More broadly, concerns about tampering are prevalent in college football due to the nature of the transfer portal and the introduction of NIL. Proving such allegations, however, remains a significant challenge for the NCAA.  

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Shedeur Sanders' unexpected fall to the fifth round of the NFL draft has left many questioning the evaluators' decisions. Could the Colorado quarterback's high-profile background and interview performance have influenced his draft position? This episode unpacks the factors behind Sanders' draft journey, featuring insights from Drake Toll, Cody Stovall, JT West, Nick Maravetz, and Parker Greensworth. The discussion also explores the potential expansion of the Big 12 conference, with Sacramento State as a surprising contender. With $50 million in NIL raised and Shaquille O'Neal as the basketball GM, could Sacramento State be the next big addition?

Tune in for an engaging analysis of Shedeur Sanders' NFL prospects and the Big 12's expansion possibilities.