College Football's Big 12 Expected to Have 'Banner Year,' Says Fox Sports' Tim Brando

According to Tim Brando, the Big 12 conference is poised for a successful season, with the addition of four new schools and the potential for more expansion in the future.

The college football landscape has undergone a significant shift with the realignment of conferences, particularly with the Big 12 welcoming Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah to its ranks. Amidst further speculation about the ACC's stability, Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando predicts a "banner year" for the Big 12.

Brando attributes his optimism to the league's overall competitiveness, which he believes could result in multiple teams posting impressive records. He highlights the revamped scheduling format, which offers the potential for top-tier teams to emerge. "Top to bottom, bottom to top, it's gonna be the most competitive league in America," Brando stated.

College Football's Big 12 Expected to Have 'Banner Year,' Says Fox Sports' Tim Brando

The conference's financial stability is another contributing factor to Brando's positive outlook. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark has implemented strategic initiatives to enhance revenue streams, including private equity investments and the sale of naming rights. This financial growth could make the conference more attractive to potential expansion candidates, such as Florida State and Clemson.

Brando acknowledges the potential legal hurdles that Florida State and Clemson face in leaving the ACC, but he suggests that Yormark's efforts to bolster the Big 12's financial standing could entice these schools to make the move. "They've got a wealthy group of people that are behind them and are really turning up the screws and are telling their people 'we gotta find a way to get the hell out,' and Brett Yormark, I think, could be offering them something a little sweeter if he could pull a few of those public relations maneuvers he has in mind."

College Football's Big 12 Expected to Have 'Banner Year,' Says Fox Sports' Tim Brando

The Big 12 has a proven track record of success in the College Football Playoff, with four of its teams making seven appearances. The lone victory came from TCU in 2023. Brando believes that the league's depth and competitiveness could lead to multiple teams earning playoff berths this year.

While the ACC's future remains uncertain, Brando suggests that the Big 12's expansion aspirations could force other conferences to reconsider their alignment. "I think financially, if they can bolster the circumstances for Florida State and Clemson, then they might force the ACC, not just those two schools, but the rest of the ACC to think about joining forces so they can sweeten their financial pocket."

College Football's Big 12 Expected to Have 'Banner Year,' Says Fox Sports' Tim Brando

The addition of four new schools to the Big 12 has brought about a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season. With increased competition, financial stability, and the potential for further expansion, the conference is poised to make a statement and showcase its strength in the world of college football.