ACC leaders are poised to initiate preliminary discussions regarding the potential inclusion of Cal and Stanford into the conference, as indicated by sources briefed on the matter and revealed to ESPN on Monday.
These sources exercised caution, emphasizing that the two arranged discussions remain in their nascent phases. One teleconference is scheduled with the ACC’s athletic directors, while a separate conversation involving the league’s presidents is set to unfold over the course of Monday and Tuesday.
Amidst the departure of five universities last Friday, the Pac-12 has dwindled to a mere four institutions. Consequently, the remaining quartet, which includes Cal and Stanford, is earnestly seeking suitable placements. These two institutions boast distinguished academic profiles, with Stanford consistently maintaining the nation’s premier comprehensive athletic program. Nevertheless, the aftershocks of realignment have precipitated a pivotal juncture for them.
A relocation of Cal and Stanford to the ACC is not without challenges, as cautioned by sources on Monday. The intricacies inherent in such a transition are considerable.
“It is a complex matter,” stated an ACC source. “Substantial travel expenses are involved. The desires of both the athletic directors and the presidents could diverge greatly. [Cal and Stanford] would likely need to accept a diminished share. Nonetheless, their eventual aspiration would likely be attaining full membership.”
Of significance in these discussions are financial considerations. The ACC remains committed to a television agreement with ESPN until 2036, a pact criticized by numerous members for its purported financial constraints on long-term prosperity. Projections indicate that schools like FSU and Clemson could face an annual deficit of nearly $30 million compared to institutions in the SEC and Big Ten.
Last week, Florida State’s administration, together with board members, staged an unusual public outcry, threatening to exit if a greater portion of the ACC’s existing agreement is not redirected towards FSU.
The inclusion of Cal and Stanford is unlikely to herald a financial windfall, according to informed sources. While the addition of esteemed academic institutions like Cal and Stanford would undoubtedly elicit enthusiasm from certain ACC presidents, the potential monetary benefits appear limited.
“There won’t be any substantial financial gain for the existing members,” noted the ACC source, implying that scenarios in which this addition significantly enhances the current schools’ positions are difficult to envision.
Amid the unraveling of the Pac-12 last week, discussions and proposals emerged involving as many as seven Pac-12 institutions and the ACC, contemplating mergers, expansions, or scheduling adjustments. These deliberations had a formal aspect, according to sources. However, due to fiscal considerations, none appeared to materialize as feasible ventures.
For Cal and Stanford, viable options are scarce. Collaborative efforts have been undertaken in tandem with Oregon State and Washington State, the remaining members of the Pac-12. The academic distinction of Cal and Stanford might broaden their possibilities.
Within this context, the four aforementioned institutions have explored the prospect of incorporating additional schools to augment the league’s roster to six teams for the upcoming year. This approach could conceivably preserve NCAA units and a form of CFP payout. Subsequently, a West Coast-centered conference could be fashioned after the buyout obligations with Mountain West institutions decrease following the 2024-25 season. Immediate expansion could involve overtures to AAC or Sun Belt schools in Texas. The allure of collaboration with academically prestigious institutions might encourage the presidents to consider such a partnership.
As it presently stands, the ACC comprises 14 full-time football members. Meanwhile, the Big Ten is on course to feature 18 members next season, while both the Big 12 and SEC are set to expand to 16 institutions.
