it is amusing, to say the least. at B1G Media Days, Tony Pettiti was really pushing the idea that "we are not interested in further expansion. We're all about integrating USC and UCLA."
and now, there are multiple media outlets reporting that the B1G is back in the expansion game.
Dan Wetzel at Yahoo Sports is out with this:
The B1G has begun exploratory discussions about expanding membership to 18 or even 20 teams, industry sources have told Yahoo Sports. The schools being considered are Oregon and Washington if the league adds 2 schools, and Cal and Stanford if it wants to move to 20. The discussions are in the very early stages, sources caution. No decision is considered imminent......
A group of 4 B1G university presidents began the preliminary process on Wednesday......
With the Pac-12 at risk of splintering, Oregon, Washington, Cal and Stanford renewed their push to the B1G, seeking a safe and far richer harbor for their athletic programs starting in 2024.....
Part of the discussion will be based on whether their broadcast partners are willing to offer a pro rata share - or something close - with the addition of four more schools.....
(Wetzel concludes with) If the B1G is willing to work through the details, then this deal will get done.