Extra Big 12 game unlikely

The Big 12 Athletic Directors and Coaches are holding their meetings to review proposals and make decisions. One proposal that is NOT likely to be approved is the addition of a ninth Big 12 football game. According to news reports there is no support among the coaches although the athletic directors would have to make the final decision. The coaches reportedly are unanimously against adding another Big 12 contest and it would seem unlikely the athletic directors would go against such strong feelings.

In reality a ninth Big 12 game makes little sense. Why have the Big 12 teams beat each other up even more? It certainly would NOT help the Big 12 teams in their national rankings and subsequently in their bowl prospects. In other words, it probably would be a financial loser for the schools if it means less prominence in the post season play. Also the addition of a ninth game would probably kill the Big 12 championship game between the North and South Divisions. Why have a championship game when so many teams have already played each other during the season? Although the Big 12 championship game does NOT help national rankings of the teams either, it at least has the benefit of being a major financial success. The championship game presently means a little under $1 million to each of the Big 12 schools - no small check (especially to those schools who are struggling with their budgets).

The only possible reason why a Nebraska fan might consider a ninth game to be beneficial is if it could somehow result in the restoration of the annual Nebraska-Oklahoma rivalry. That, however, would not necessarily be guaranteed. I believe, it's better for Nebraska and Oklahoma to meet more often in the Big 12 championship game if/when Nebraska returns to prominence on the field. Playing Oklahoma once a season should be enough for any fan.

I believe a better use for the ninth Big 12 game would be for Big 12 teams to schedule more prominent national opponents. The fans would be thrilled and the athletic directors would get fatter payouts from national television broadcasts. Playing other name opponent outside the conference also brings more national attention to the Big 12 and helps conference recruiting.

At any rate it looks like us fans won't be seeing a ninth conference game anytime soon. Once the issue is resolved at the conclusion of the meetings, the athletic directors can get on with the business of filling out future non-conference schedules.

Go Big Red,

RedCap