As Colorado to Big 12 talks heat up again, experts say follow the money

Rick George has a lot on his mind going into Fathers Day

Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

If you thought Deion Sanders coming to CU was the biggest news for the University this year, the best might still be yet to come. Colorado officials have been in “substantive” talks with the Big 12 about possibly joining the conference, according to multiple reports.

The CU realignment rumor train has been circling the depot for quite some time, but this feels much different. A Pac-12 media rights blunder this off-season has forced all schools to reconsider their standing with the long-time west coast giant. While everyone is hanging on for now, many are waiting for a possible mass exodus to happen prior to the 2024 season.

From a financial standpoint, Colorado moving away from the crumbling Pac-12 makes the most sense. And if a lifeline from the Big 12 is what keeps things moving in the right direction, then so be it. CU’s former conference has a stockpile of cash on hand and would stand to have more with Coach Prime’s influence. All eyes are on the Buffs right now and it’s a ideal time to cut ties with the Pac-12.

It is expected that Colorado would receive a share of over $30 Million from media rights, if they join the Big 12. To put that into perspective, a Pac-12 offering would be in the neighborhood of roughly $19.5 Million. However, that’s hoping and praying for two new members to hop on board with USC and UCLA leaving for the Big Ten. Also, whichever schools do make a transition to the Pac-12, it would have to be a big sell for the broadcast partners to shell out a bigger contract.

The Pac-12 continues to shop around for a major carrier with no deal in hand. It was rumored Apple TV was part of the negotiation process as of late. It also appears at this point any deal would come down in the midst of Summer.

Colorado Football spent decades as a member of the Big 7/8 & 12 with a National Championship in 1990. A move back with Sanders taking over in Boulder would be a rejuvenation for a team closing out a 1-11 season last year.