The Big 12 Conference could be seeing a change in scenery soon.
According to sources, Texas A&M University president R. Bowen Loftin talked with Big 12 Conference board chairman Brady Deaton on Monday night about A&M leaving the conference.
A&M stated its desire to join the South Eastern Conference before this meeting.
Two weeks ago, SEC presidents and chancellors said they were happy with the current situation of the conference.
However, they are open to expansion in the future. A&M could forfeit at least $20 million if they leave the conference. The Big 12 saw a shake-up in July when the universities of Colorado and Nebraska both decided to depart for the Pacific-12 and Big Ten respectively.
If Texas A&M did decide to scramble to the SEC, they would join powerhouse teams such as the University of Florida, the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and Louisiana State University. All these teams have won a national championship in the past ten years.
One reason for A&M’s desire to join the SEC could be because of the creation of The Longhorn Network for the University of Texas. The network is a 20-year, $300 million deal with ESPN and will just cover Longhorn athletics.
As a diehard Longhorn fan, I am saddened by the Aggies’ wish for a new conference, even if it is the infamous SEC. Texas A&M and Texas have a rich rivalry dating back to 1894.
Since that date, the two teams have played a staggering 110 times, and the games between the Aggies and Longhorns are always intense.
This move would destroy over 100 years of emotion, sweat, blood, and tears left behind by players like Vince Young, Ricky Williams, Earl Campbell, and Colt McCoy.
Not only would the move diminish the rivalry but Texas Tech University and Baylor also have a history against the Aggies.
For the sake of the Big 12 Conference and Texas fans alike, seeing A&M leave would definitely be a sad sight.