Florida State Faces Obstacles In Pursuit of Big Ten or SEC Membership, Sources Say

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
16/07/2024 21h06

In a recent report by Action Network, it has been revealed that Florida State University's hopes of joining either the Big Ten or SEC may face significant hurdles. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report suggests that while Florida State is eyeing these two conferences due to the substantial difference in television media rights revenue, there are concerns about their potential addition.

One key issue raised is the lack of financial viability for both conferences if they were to take in Florida State as a member. Additionally, sources indicate that there is currently no appetite for further expansion, as both leagues are content with their current setups and success.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, when asked about Florida State's legal challenges to leave the ACC during the SEC Media Days, made it clear that the SEC is focused solely on its current 16 teams and thriving in that configuration.

Action Network reached out to numerous individuals, including university presidents, conference personnel, athletic directors, network executives, and consultants, all of whom preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity surrounding conference realignment. Three SEC presidents explicitly stated that they had no interest in adding Florida State, and it would require the approval of 12 out of the 16 SEC presidents for any new school to be admitted.

Similarly, the Big Ten also does not show any interest in welcoming the Seminoles, according to the sources. several sources mentioned that the Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti is avoiding any expansion plans, and the conference is following his lead. They questioned the incentives of adding Florida State, particularly as the Big Ten has recently added USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington, and any potential addition would need to bring substantial benefits and financial viability.

The report also highlighted concerns about Florida State's reputation as a partner, with some sources stating that the university's actions, such as involving the attorney general, accusing former ACC commissioner John Swofford of improprieties, and challenging ESPN's TV deals, have not painted them in a favorable light. There is doubt among certain individuals about Florida State's trustworthiness as a new member.

Furthermore, Florida State's non-membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU) adds another layer of complexity. While membership in the prestigious organization is not a requirement for Big Ten schools, it is preferred, and given the significance of AAU membership to the conference's presidents and chancellors, it could impact any potential consideration for Florida State's admission.

If neither the Big Ten nor SEC pans out for Florida State, the report suggests that the Big 12 could be a potential landing spot, although currently, the Seminoles and Clemson are not enthused about that possibility. The Big 12 recently stated that it is not looking to add more schools and is focused on integrating the eight new schools that it recently added.

While numerous social media posts speculate that Florida State and Clemson are as good as locks for the Big Ten, the report urges caution, highlighting that the sentiments of online speculation do not necessarily reflect the reality being discussed by conference officials and insiders. The uncertainty surrounding college football's future and the complexities of conference realignment make any predictions precarious.

In conclusion, Florida State's desired move to the Big Ten or SEC may face significant resistance and obstacles, as per the sources. Financial considerations, concerns about the university's actions, and the lack of interest from conference officials all contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Florida State's prospects. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold, but for now, the prevailing sentiment appears to be against Florida State's inclusion in either conference.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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