What will happen to the Kansas State football program if the Big 12 can’t stay together? Where should the Wildcats turn?
Thanks to the actions of the Oklahoma Sooners, Texas Longhorns, and Southeastern Conference, the Big 12 and most of its current members are being faced with some tough choices. Another round of conference realignment has thrown the stability of college athletics up in the air and that could adversely affect Kansas State.
While other schools may have clear opportunities elsewhere, unfortunately, a rural, smaller university like Kansas State may not be deemed as desirable by other conferences. Whether it’s right or wrong, money and outside perception will drive a lot of conference realignment.
The conference realignment process isn’t always based on merit and it’s not always based on the success teams have seen on the field over the past decade or so.
The Kansas State football program isn’t located in a major metropolitan area and it’s not a powerhouse with a ton of longstanding tradition or prestige. It also doesn’t help that Kansas State is now one of just two Power 5 schools to never win a national championship in any team sport.
So, options for Kansas State may unfortunately be a bit more limited than other universities.
Kansas State football: 3 conferences the Wildcats must consider joining
With OU and UT leaving the Big 12 to go to the SEC, another round of conference realignment has been forced upon everyone. Because of that, the Big 12 and its remaining members must now consider taking actions that align solely with their best interests.
There’s a chance that other Big 12 members may take off and look for greener pastures.
There are rumors floating around that Kansas could be bound for the Big Ten. If they leave, it’s not unreasonable to expect others to kick the tires on making a move elsewhere as well.
So, what should Kansas State do if the Big 12 starts to unravel?