Some Wildcards in Conference Realignment.

The PAC -12, ACC, and The Big Ten formally announced an Alliance.   But, there isn't anything in writing, no formal agreement, or contract.   This is the rest of the conferences saying don't come after our schools SEC, because we don't like your kind around here.   Secondly, The PAC-12 announced they were considering conference expansion, but then said - they will not expand at this time.   The equivalent of let the smoke clear and let's examine battle plan options.   So for the next 6-12 month cycle most major realignment is on pause.   However, their will continue to be discussions and rumors galore.  Yet I think there are a few University Game Changers.   

USC (University of Southern California) Trojans, PAC-12:  The have been rumored to have threatened leaving the PAC-12 and going independent.   What if USC teams up with one or any of the following: Oregon, Washington, or UCLA and they bolt to the SEC.   What does that do to the PAC-12 arguably the weaker and more vulnerable of the conferences outside of The Big 12. 

Penn State Nittany Lions, Big Ten:  Penn State joined The Big Ten in 1996, before that they were independent.   Do we believe Penn State is a loyalist Big Ten Blue Blood?   If Penn State can double their revenue or increase it by a significant percentage, get additional TV exposure, and get more favorable recruiting options.   Me thinks they take that deal with the Devil.   As with USC, what if Penn State can bring Michigan, Ohio State, or Wisconsin along with them.   What does that do to The Big Ten?  

ACC Teams: Clemson, Florida State, Miami: What happens if one, all, or some combination of these teams defect to The SEC.   The ACC has a Grant of TV Rights through 2036.  Which makes this unlikely, and it would be quite costly for teams to leave.   But, nothing is out of the realm of possibilities.  Current payouts for each ACC school is $33 million.   The new TV deal for The SEC is estimated to payout between $68-$70 million.   That is quite a gap and hard to ignore, particularly if you are Clemson, who has won 2 out of the last 5 National BCS Championships.   Particularly when you are at the height of your program, you have leverage, and you don't want to get lapped. 

Notre Dame, Independent/ACC except Football: The last question is always what about Notre Dame football.   Well I suggest they won't do anything until they have to or are forced to do something.   When faced with a possibility of no football last fall due to COVID, Notre Dame jumped in and played a schedule comprised of ACC schools, but they reverted back to independent status this year, even though they made more money as part of the ACC.   I think in a weird and masochistic way they enjoy being a bit different and an outlier in the college football world.