The winds of realignment are again blowing strongly in college sports and this time Iowa State will likely be impacted. The Iowa-Iowa State rivalry is already huge, especially for the annual Cy-Hawk football game between the two schools. Just imagine if that was also a Big 10 conference game. It could happen.

More Big 12 Departures Ahead

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Texas and Oklahoma are likely departing the Big 12 and heading to the SEC (Southeastern Conference). The Athletic has reported that both schools would send letters to the Big 12 on Monday, informing them of plans to leave the conference at the end of 2025. That has now become reality:

Monday Night Statement from Iowa State

Iowa State President Dr. Wendy WIntersteen and Director of Athletics Jamie Pollard released this video statement Monday night.

End of the Big 12?

If the Longhorns and Sooners departures become reality it's at the least, the second major shake-up of the Big 12 in the last two decades. At worst, it could spell the complete end of the conference.

It Could Be the Second Major Realignment of the Big 12 in Less Than 20 Years

From 2010 to 2013, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, and Texas A&M all left the Big 12, while West Virginia and TCU (Texas Christian University) joined the conference. The Big 12 now has 10 schools but if Texas and Oklahoma depart, it's obviously eight. Or less. Iowa State and Kansas are both said to be looking to get out, with both reportedly talking to the Big 10. WSAU also says Baylor, TCU, and Texas Tech are chatting with the Pac 12 about a possible move.

What Will the Big Ten Do?

Ten years ago, the Big 10 added Maryland, Nebraska, and Rutgers. That swelled the conference to 14 schools. Could the conference make new additions and grow again? Could they add schools and show others the door? Or will they sit on the sidelines this time around? Stay tuned. It could be a very interesting week...

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YouGov investigated the most popular dining brands in the country, and Stacker compiled the list to give readers context on the findings. Read on to look through America's vast and divergent variety of restaurants—maybe you'll even find a favorite or two.

 

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