(02-08-2021 09:09 AM)AllTideUp Wrote:  One consideration is this...

The closer we get to a situation where the Big 12 could actually bring down a decent contract, the more schools we will have to offer in order to get them to consider a different option.

2 is easier for us.

4 makes more sense from their perspective.

A while back, I proposed a strategy for cracking the nut. Instead of putting Oklahoma or Texas in a position of strength and allowing them to decide which offer they wanted, I said offer TCU first. TCU is a good product by itself and I don't think we would regret having them.

Back in 2011, I half expected TCU to be the other addition along with Texas A&M, but it's clear now the contract called for a second market.

Anyway, taking TCU puts a lot of pressure on both Oklahoma and Texas. They are a better addition than either Oklahoma State or Texas Tech. It would secure an SEC presence in DFW with all the media exposure that brings. It would be akin to having a school in Atlanta in a scenario where such a city is basic virgin territory. Not that we don't have fans in DFW now, but we are the minority party.

For TCU's part, I don't see why they wouldn't take that offer. Sure, they would probably play TX schools all the time if they had their preference, but they are financially insecure without the blessing of Texas and Oklahoma. If the Big 12 goes away then it will be hard for them to find a comparable home. The reason for this is not because they have a weak or poor program. The reason is purely logistical. In the SEC, they are safe and prosperous.

For the SEC, however, they are a solid product in a good market. They merit inclusion. Given the situation, I think it is worth the risk.

Take TCU and you alter the math. For one thing, the last thing Oklahoma or Texas want is another SEC school smack in the middle of DFW. At that point, either of those schools starts to look at the situation differently.

I like TCU and think you are right that having a school in DFW is a decent concept. That being said, Texas Tech brings some basketball prowess now that TCU doesn't. I still think Texas/Tech/OK/State are the most likely 4.