College Football News: Hoping to shore up its membership after USC and UCLA defected to the Big Ten, the Big 12 are discussing adding multiple Pac-12 programs. Will Notre Dame defect to Big Ten? Plus, SEC coaches ranked.
Up to six Pac-12 teams could be added after USC, UCLA move
Following the shakeup in college football in the wake of the defection of USC and UCLA to the Big Ten, the Big 12 is holding deep discussions to consider adding multiple Pac-12 programs to sustain its membership, CBS reported.
The current proposal is considering adding up to six teams, which would make the Big 12 an 18-team league, the largest in the FBS.
At least four teams are under consideration to be added to the Big 12 as a major realignment continues to transform college football.
The four teams specifically reported to be under consideration and targeted by the Big 12 are Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah.
However, two other teams are also under consideration: Oregon and Washington.
Big 12 and Pac-12 merger?
Another possibility under consideration is a potential merger of the Big 12 and Pac-12 in some form.
According to one source: "Everything is on the table."
Another source told CBS that it is without question that the Big 12 has to be aggressive in its expansion.
Will Notre Dame defect to the Big Ten?
The Big Ten wants Notre Dame, Sports Illustrated reported. Rumors are swirling that Notre Dame could be considering following USC and UCLA to the Big Ten.
A source told CBS Sports the Big Ten was done "for now" until Notre Dame determines whether it wants to attempt and join the conference. The Irish have been offered deals in the past and opted to retain their independence.
Top 10 SEC coach and team rankings for 2022
As the 2022 season approaches, who were the top coaches in the SEC and which teams can we expect to see heading to bowl games and a national championship this year? Here are the rankings according to CBSSports.
#10. Tennessee: Josh Heupel (coach ranking: 33 overall)
#9. Florida: Billy Napier (coach ranking: 32 overall)
#8. Mississippi State: Mike Leach (coach ranking: 26 overall)
#7. Arkansas: Sam Pittman (coach ranking: 22 overall)
#6. Ole Miss: Lane Kiffin (coach ranking: 18 overall)
#5. Kentucky: Mark Stoops (coach ranking: 16 overall)
#4. LSU: Brian Kelly (coach ranking: 7 overall)
#3. Texas A&M: Jimbo Fisher (coach ranking: 5 overall)
#2 Georgia: Kirby Smart (coach ranking: 2 overall)
#1 Alabama: Nick Saban (coach ranking: 1 overall)