West Coast Powerhouses Oregon and Washington Set to Join Big Ten, Pac-12 in Peril

Oregon and Washington, charter members of the Pac-12, are reportedly on the verge of accepting invitations to join the Big Ten, making them the third and fourth Pac-12 schools to leave for the Big Ten. The departures of USC, UCLA, and Colorado, along with potential departures of Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah, could be detrimental to the Pac-12. Financial concerns over increased travel costs and reduced media rights revenue shares are factors influencing the decision. The Pac-12 is exploring options to secure a new media deal and keep the conference intact, including a grant of rights contract. The Big 12 is also pursuing Arizona State and Utah, and if successful, the Pac-12 would be left with only four remaining members.