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The Changing Face Of College Conferences

Possible realignment affects traditional rivalries

Jun 10, 2010 - Although nothing has been set in stone as of yet, it is becoming more and more apparent that there is going to be a major shake-up in the look of some conferences in college athletics, as rumors swirl of Nebraska leaving the Big-12 to join the Big-10, and a possible ripple effect from that defection wherein the entire Big-12 might dissolve if the Cornhuskers leave.

Major changes on the college level are, of course, not without precedent.  The Atlantic Coast Conference has a decidedly different look than it did 'back in the day' when it comprised just seven schools.  The Big East has become a mega-conference.  Conferences have been split into divisions and playoffs within those conferences have added hope for lesser regular-season teams that they might be able to proceed further than they would have been able to hope to do when it was just winner-take-all after the schedule played out.

Independent such as Notre Dame consider the possibility of giving up their independent status and joining up with geographically attractive conferences, which, of course, would seriously affect the traditional rivalries that have sustained their program over the years.

Buckle up for the ride, as the NCAA prepares for some possible major face-lifting.  Stay tuned to this stream for updates, and if Hawaii decides to join the Big East, I am sure that we will have it for you here, first.

Photographs by spatulated, Triple Tri, and chrischappelear used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.