Will Utah Struggle in Expansion Big 12 Since Pac-12 Football Was So Bad? | Realignment Adjustments

Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast

The Big 12 Conference's recent expansion to the West marks a significant and strategic shift in the college sports landscape. By welcoming four new schools—Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah—the Big 12 has expanded its footprint beyond its traditional Midwestern and Southern roots, stretching into the Mountain and Pacific time zones. This westward expansion not only broadens the conference's geographic reach but also enhances its competitiveness and marketability on a national scale.

Adding these schools brings a wealth of athletic talent and fan engagement to the Big 12. Arizona and Arizona State are known for their strong basketball programs, which will further elevate the conference's reputation as one of the nation's premier basketball leagues. Colorado, a former Big 12 member, returns with a solid football history and a passionate fan base, adding familiarity and rekindling old rivalries. Utah, with its recent success in football, including multiple Pac-12 championships, provides the Big 12 with another powerhouse program that can compete at the highest level.

This expansion also strategically positions the Big 12 in key media markets in the West, increasing the conference’s exposure and television revenue potential. By securing a presence in major cities like Phoenix and Salt Lake City, the Big 12 can attract more viewers, sponsors, and recruits from a wider geographic area.

In summary, the Big 12’s westward expansion is a bold move that strengthens the conference both athletically and commercially, ensuring its continued relevance and competitiveness in the rapidly changing landscape of college sports.

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply.

eBay Motors
From brakes to exhaust kits and beyond, eBay Motors has over 122 million parts to keep your ride-or-die alive. With all the parts you need at the prices you want, it’s easy to bring home that big win. Keep your ride-or-die alive at EbayMotors.com. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers.

FanDuel
Now through September 22nd, ALL FanDuel customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get a THREE WEEK free trial of NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube and YouTube TV. Visit FANDUEL.COM/LOCKEDON to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)