[Pitt Gorilla]

Originally Posted by duncan_idaho

If Missouri HAS to move now, the only thing really on the table is the SEC. I would prefer the BiG over the long haul, but I'm not sure they make a move now.

I would not be crushed if Missouri waited for a few years if they were certain the SEC would be on the table at a later date. This looks like a possibility IF the ACC holds together and the SEC truly doesn't want to add anyone from inside its current footprint. UNC/Va. Tech/Virginia/Maryland aren't happening. That leaves Missouri in pretty good shape as it regards to SEC expansion (unless the SEC looks ready to settle for West Virginia).

I have some real misgivings about the move to the SEC. It would not be as rosy as many Mizzou fans assume. I think the presence and importance of aTm in Texas is severely overstated by Aggies and pro-SEC movers alike. If the Big 12 still exists, aTm/SEC is still the second-best show in state. And the SEC still has to recruit through the Big 12 bubble that has held schools like Arkansas out - or at least limited their imprint.

I think moving to the SEC with the Big 12 still in place would be damaging to Missouri's Texas recruiting efforts. It MIGHT help in-state. It MIGHT help in Louisiana and Florida.

I've seen some Mizzou fans claim it would be an easy sell to Midwest border states (come play in the best conference in America!), but the only state that has significant talent is Illinois (Chicago), and those kids are Big Ten all the way.

It would probably be a strong move for hoops and good for the overall athletic department. But football would take some hits on the recruiting trail until it sunk better contacts in LA and FL and GA.

I appreciate your take on this. I would note, however, that LSU has little trouble recruiting Texas, even without an A&M.