Greg McElroy recently discussed potential additions to the Big Ten conference on an episode of Always College Football. He proposed that amidst recent conference expansions, there was room for another noteworthy team to join the ranks of the Big Ten alongside the likes of the Oregon Ducks, Washington Huskies, UCLA Bruins, and USC Trojans, all of whom are set to become conference members in 2024.
Across other Power 4 conferences, significant changes are also occurring. The SEC will welcome the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners, while the ACC will see the addition of the SMU Mustangs, California Golden Bears, and Stanford Cardinal. Similarly, the Big 12 is expanding with the inclusion of the Colorado Buffaloes, Arizona Wildcats, Arizona State Sun Devils, and Utah Utes.
Amid this landscape of shifting allegiances and conference realignments, one notable team has remained steadfast: the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. McElroy suggested that the Big Ten would present an ideal destination for Notre Dame. Despite the presence of the Indiana Hoosiers and Purdue Boilermakers in the Big Ten, McElroy argued that Notre Dame’s prestigious brand transcends such considerations.
In McElroy’s view, Notre Dame stands out as the primary target for conference expansion, not only for the Big Ten but also for the ACC and the SEC. He emphasized that Notre Dame’s allure and national prominence overshadow any concerns about redundancy, even in states like Indiana, where other notable collegiate programs already exist.
McElroy’s assertion underscores the universal appeal and desirability of Notre Dame as a potential addition to any conference. Regardless of existing affiliations or regional overlaps, Notre Dame’s reputation and tradition make it a coveted asset for any conference seeking to enhance its stature and competitive landscape.
Leave a Reply