TCU to join the Big East

ESPN story link

It's really not that big of surprise. There had been some rumors recently. TCU needs to be in a BCS conference in order to avoid all the discussions at the end of the year about whether or not they're worthy for a BCS bid. I don't think they want to join the Big 12 because they would have to compete with the other Texas schools for recruits. By joining the Big East, they differentiate themselves from other Texas schools and also gain exposure to the eastern markets. The SEC already has 12 teams, and it's competitive enough already. The Big East needs TCU to be a football marque. With the poor showing their football programs have put on the field this year, they need someone who's going to bring some credibility to the conference, and if Notre Dame won't join as a football member then TCU is a good choice.

I think it's just a matter of time before BYU and Boise St. find BCS conferences to offer them. BYU didn't do well this year, but they're generally a very competitive team. Boise St.'s move to the MWC is an improvement in the competition level, but it still doesn't solve the problem of not being in a BCS conference. I wouldn't be surprised if the Big 12 offered either of those schools or Notre Dame to join to fill the gap left by Nebraska and Colorado. The North and South divisions could be recreated and I bet the Big 12 would find a way to let Notre Dame and/or BYU keep their special TV contracts.