A number of Big 12 coaches and officials are supportive of the conference’s possible expansion. You also have most college football analysts and reporters believing Big 12 expansion is on the horizon.
In fact, the Big 12 has even met with potential suitors about joining the conference.
The wide belief is that the conference will expand by two teams as early as 2017 and that has been met with a positive reaction.
But enter The Oklahoman columnist Berry Tramel, who has decided to be the contrarian.
Not only does Tramel believe that Big 12 expansion is not happening, he believes Oklahoma State is against the Houston Cougars joining the conference because it could hinder their success in recruiting.
“OSU absolutely does not want Houston in the Big 12. I don’t think OU does either but I don’t think they’re adamant about it. It’d cost them a recruit or two. OSU thinks hey it could cost us a bunch of recruits,” he said on SportsDayDFW’s “Ballzy” podcast Tuesday.
Tramel went on to say why he believes expansion will not happen.
“I don’t think there’s going to be an expansion. I don’t think there is. I think there are some schools that don’t want it and even if you get the chances to have expansion, then you’ve got to go back to the table and figure out food. I don’t think there’s a consensus there. My money is stronger and stronger on no expansion.”
It’s certainly interesting to see someone coming out on the opposite side of the conversation, and Tramel certainly has his points.
In the end, the conference will go with the consensus, and if there is no consensus, things could stay as is. If Oklahoma State and others would truly be threatened by the Cougars joining the Big 12 — which they should be — then it may not be too far off to believe expansion talks could be tabled for the foreseeable future.
Can’t get enough of Campus Sports? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with the latest news and exclusive giveaways!
