June 30, 2022

USC and UCLA to leave Pac-12, join Big Ten

Just when you thought it was a slow news day, a report from the Los Angeles Daily news suggests both USC and UCLA are taking a proactive approach to leave the Pac-12 and join the Big Ten.

The report suggests the move is not yet official but all indications are that the Trojans and Bruins will join the likes of Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State in the Big Ten in 2024.

Is the Big Ten getting RID of divisions?

USC and UCLA to leave Pac-12, join Big Ten

Not surprisingly, this move is all about the money for USC and UCLA.

From Los Angeles Daily News:

USC and UCLA are working to leave the Pac-12 and join the Big Ten, according to multiple media reports, first reported by the Pac-12 Hotline’s Jon Wilner. The move is not official, and would not take place until 2024 due to language in the current Pac-12 media contracts, but all indications are this is the future for the Trojans and Bruins.

Beyond the competitive security that joining the B1G provides, there are the financials to consider. The Pac-12 was left far behind the SEC, Big Ten and ACC in media rights deals in the last round of negotiations. Millions were left on the table for all Pac-12 member schools.

The B1G, though, has already been ahead of the Pac when it comes to media rights. Now, add two schools from the second-largest media market in the country, and the Big Ten gets a major boost in its ongoing negotiations for a new deal.

By some estimates, the Big Ten could make as much as $80 million annually per school, tens of millions more than any conference other than the SEC. That makes this decision a no-brainer for USC and UCLA.

Nation, what do you think about USC and UCLA joining the Big Ten?

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W.G. Brady is a Detroit-based journalist who has been covering the Detroit sports scene for Detroit Sports Nation for several years. He is in his early 30s and has a wealth of experience in the industry. Throughout his career, W.G. has established himself as a respected and knowledgeable journalist known for his in-depth coverage of the teams and athletes in Detroit. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for sports, W.G. has become a go-to source for fans and readers looking for the latest news and analysis on the Detroit sports scene. He has a good reputation in the sports community and is respected for his unbiased coverage of sports events. W.G. is known for his ability to uncover hidden stories and provide unique perspectives on the teams and athletes he covers. He has a good understanding of the city of Detroit and its sports culture, which he uses to inform his reporting and analysis. He continues to be a respected journalist in the Detroit sports industry.