So, looks like we have the old Southwest Conference being revisited. Presidents and chancellors of the Big XII announced this morning they have unanimously approved the authorization of adding Texas Christian University to the conference. Adding TCU will add stability to the Big XII, which was facing collapse just a few weeks ago.

TCU was already headed out the door from the Mountain West Conference, heading to the Big East, which most considered a horrible move. Their closest away game was hundreds of miles away. Now with the Big XII talks, they will have some of the old rivalries back: Texas, Baylor and Texas Tech. It is reported that they Horned Frogs buyout from the Big East will be 5 million dollars.

The Big XII head honchos have also agreed to equally share revenue from the conference TV deals, if the conference members are willing to give the top-tier rights to the league for six years. With that being said, the schools are looking to get about 20 million a piece in June, and more when the Fox Sports TV deal kicks in. TCU would definitely be able to handle the Big East exit fee loss.

“These discussions with the Big 12 have huge implications for TCU,” TCU’s Chancellor, Victor Boschini said. “It will allow us to return to old rivalries, something our fans and others have been advocating for years. As always, we must consider what’s best for TCU and our student-athletes in this ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics. We look forward to continuing these discussions with the Big 12.”

When If TCU comes to the Big XII, it will bring the conference number back to 10, with Texas A&M’s departure next year. There is the possibility that  Missouri will still be out, though. They have given their school President authorization to make conference decisions and they have been lifting their skirt a little bit high towards the SEC. But the current rumor is, that Missouri is staying, so who knows what will happen. It’s a conference realignment frenzy, again.

Texas athletic director, Deloss Dodds responded on the TCU news and bringing an old rival back to town:

We’re proud that TCU has been invited to join the Big 12, Their commitment to academics and success on the field make them an excellent fit. With a solid budget and strong financial support, they have been proactive at improving facilities. Their close proximity to all conference institutions makes for a comfortable travel situation.

The argument to bring the league back up to 12 members and bring the conference championship game back is still on the table. The current rumors are Louisville is up on the Big XII clock next. Looks like the Big East is going to be the one to fold now.

I think I speak for everyone when I say, we all want this to be over.