Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr. Plow
I have no idea about the academics of this move, but really - academics have as much to do with any of this as basketball does.
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I wouldn't agree with that. I think each conference has different goals for expansion. Academic perception is definitely a major consideration due to the indirect impact on other conference members through research funding and prestige, but that alone is not enough to get someone like Tulane or Rice a major conference spot.
Football, TV draw (either national following or strong local markets), and academics are the main focus points and each conference ranks them differently based on their own situation. Big 12 is trying to survive and maintain its TV contracts so football is the main priority; WVU is a great fit. Big Ten wanted national following and football tradition; Nebraska is a great fit. SEC wanted major TV markets, very good academics to help the league's perception, and solid all-around athletics; A&M and Mizzou are great fits.