How do they fare on the field?

Now that we have gotten the prelims out of the way, we can really focus on what will drive this decision. Results on the field are what matter. Football is the priority in this decision, basketball a strong second. After that it is just gravy. Texas may be the lone exception to that as they have one of the elite baseball programs in the country and other excellent programs across the board. So let’s look at what these schools bring to the plate in terms of athletic prowess.

Notre Dame – tons of history in football and a decent basketball reputation. High dollar impact from TV contract possibly. Football has been down recently, but with new coach could sky rocket. Has flirted with the Big Ten for decades on membership.

Pitt – great football history and long storied basketball program. Similar to Notre Dame with current football situation but further along in rebuilding. Basketball has been steady but underachieving on the national level, but a solid Big East contender for years. Also have a strong history in other sports programs. Was rumored as a possible team to replace Chicago when they left.

Rutgers – football has had a recent rise in the weak Big East, but many doubt it would maintain that in the Big Ten. Basketball is a joke. Thought of Rutgers in the Big 10 makes me cringe.

West Virginia – Recent run of solid football, but against the weak Big East. But not the same level of doubt that surrounds Rutgers. Basketball is more than adequate with recent resurgence and has some history as well.

Iowa State – Football is mediocre at best. Basketball has had spotty success. Off of the field might be the best fit for the conference. On the field, would just be a consolation prize.

Nebraska – Unquestioned football tradition. Back on the rise with new coach, Bo Pelini. Could be on the verge of being a yearly national contender. Basketball is weak at best. Decent baseball program that is probably only behind Texas in this group.

Missouri – Very much like West Virginia in this group. Solid football and basketball with some history. Not a bad fit, but probably not the best.

Texas – Texas is clearly the class of this field. They have a national power in football, basketball and several other sports. Loads of tradition in football especially. Probably the best choice if they could do it.

Based on this I say that Iowa State and Rutgers have to go. If I had to rate the rest at this point I would say this is the order.

1. Texas (perhaps the longest of long shots though)
2. Nebraska by a slight margin because of national football power only
3. Pittsburgh
4. Missouri
5. West Virginia
6. Notre Dame (but this is the Big Ten’s ultimate prize)

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