a topic of debate since their inclusion. While some argue that their inclusion strengthens the conference, there are valid concerns and reasons to believe that these additions may have been unfavorable for the Big 12.
One of the primary concerns is the lack of historical success and tradition associated with Houston and UCF in terms of their football programs. Traditionally, the Big 12 has been home to schools with strong football legacies such as Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Texas A&M. These schools have a rich history of success, large fan bases, and a strong following across the country. On the other hand, Houston and UCF, while experiencing some recent success, do not have the same level of tradition and historical significance. This lack of tradition may lead to a decreased interest in their games and a potential decline in the overall quality of competition within the conference.
Additionally, Houston and UCF are located in markets that already have established Power Five conference teams. Houston is situated in close proximity to the University of Texas and Texas A&M, two of the biggest college football programs in the country. This overlap in market presence may lead to a dilution of the fan base and could result in reduced support for the Big 12 within the Houston area. Similarly, UCF is located in Florida, a state with three existing Power Five programs (Florida, Florida State, and Miami). Adding UCF to the Big 12 may not provide any significant benefits in terms of expanding the conference's geographical footprint or increasing its exposure to new markets.
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