Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Missouri Tigers Make Noise Off the Field

Missouri represents the Big 12 Conference well with their athletic endeavors. The Tigers have also been competitive in the two major sports: football and men’s basketball.

But today (Tuesday) we might learn if Missouri will indeed take their sports and moved to the Southeast Conference. A meeting is taking place to possibly grant Missouri permission to go to the SEC.

While I don’t admit to know all the nuts-and-bolts of that decision, I do know losing Missouri to the SEC would be a blow to the Big 12. The Tigers have been a long-time member of a group of schools in the middle section of the country. They have been rivals with Kansas forever.

I wonder if Missouri is seeking the SEC or is the SEC seeking Missouri. Have the Tigers reached their limit with the instability of the Big 12 Conference? Are they tired of Texas’ muscle? Do they worry about the future of the Big 12?

Yes, the SEC might offer Missouri more security on the short term. But will its athletic teams become sucked up in the process. Can the Tigers compete in football? Can they become an elite program in basketball?

Missouri knows the athletic landscape in the Big 12. There is risk-and-reward in moving to the SEC. The Tiger need to determine whether there is more risk or more reward.

It’s an interesting dilemma.

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