Include Texas on Big Ten expansion list
Yes, the Big Ten expansion patrol has made inquiries with Texas. It has explored partnering with several institutions, if not dozens, as it follows its expressed plan to conduct a “thorough evaluation of options” over the next 10-to-16 months.
As a source inside the conference told the Tribune earlier this week: “We’re looking everywhere. If you’re going to scrub this hard, why not look everywhere?”
The Lawrence (Kan.) Journal-World, reported Thursday the league of Woody and Bo has had “preliminary exchanges” with Texas.
From the Big Ten’s perspective, this makes perfect sense.
Texas provides an almost ideal package of big-time football, top-flight basketball, strong academics (47th among national universities, according to U.S. News & World report, tied with Penn State), an outstanding brand, an impressive non-revenue sports program, a $16 billion endowment and, of most importance, a huge potential revenue source. The Big Ten Network would love to delve deep in the heart of Texas.
ChicagoTribune.com
2/12/10
