Whispers of a third conference jump intensify as the Utes’ academic and athletic prestige positions them as a prime candidate for the Big Ten’s western expansion.
The Utah Utes are no stranger to conference realignment. But could 'The U' be making a third jump?
A possible move to the Big Ten has been fueling the rumor mill ahead of the Fourth of July holiday. Most of the commentary surrounding Utah moving on from the Big 12 is widely considered speculation or wishful thinking at this point. It's not impossible, but what would this look like right now?
Longtime journalist Jim Williams shed some light on the possibility of such a move. He dropped two tweets, which caught fire with some in the Utah athletics community.
"The Big Ten would be interested in Utah if it wants one more western, AAU-qualified, football-credible school that strengthens the conference’s long-term media and strategic position," Williams wrote. "The issue is not whether Utah is plausible; it is whether they add enough money for the invite. Again, it does not matter if the do or don't join the BIG but they tick most of the boxes. One final who had the B1G addng Maryland and Rutgers to the conf."
On paper, Utah would be a great partner for the Big Ten. Yet again, that's the case with any conference. The topic of conference realignment has been a debated topic for decades. Oklahoma and Texas joining the SEC was a power move for all parties involved. Sometimes it works out, and other times it is about staying afloat. Nebraska hasn't had much luck in the Big Ten compared to their days in the Big 12. Colorado enjoyed great seasons in multiple sports in the Big 12 before a 14-year hiatus in the Pac-12. Four west coast teams now reside in the Big Ten, a typically Midwest conference for much of its existence.
According to Williams, he has spoken with Big Ten officials. While he did not specify who or what the Big Ten is looking for specifically, Utah does keep coming up when discussing possible new member invites. At this point in the timeline, Williams begins providing information that every Utes' fan should familiarize themselves with, even if the move does not happen.
“Okay, I’m not quite sure why, but I seem to be defending @Utah_Football as a candidate for the B1G”, Williams added. “They have the perfect resume to be a member. Their athletic graduation rate the last season in Pac-12 was eighth best in the country and second in the conference behind Stanford.”
Utah moving to the Big Ten isn't hot right now. But there is enough chatter to make it all interesting.
As the college athletics landscape becomes a possible Power Three, the Utes check off many boxes for such a pursuit. Utah would have company though. As Williams stated in one of his several tweets, Miami (FL), North Carolina and Clemson would all be interested in a similar move.
