A New Era for the Big 12
At the Big 12 Football Media Days in Frisco, Texas, commissioner Brett Yormark took the stage to outline the league’s ambitions, from handling the fallout of quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s gambling allegations to unveiling a slew of initiatives that could reshape college football.
Yormark emphasized that the conference’s 16‑school lineup is a cause for celebration, highlighting the addition of new members and the momentum built over the past few years.
A major partnership with Monster Energy will now back both basketball and football events, bringing a fresh commercial boost to the circuit.
Internationally, the league will stage regular‑season games in Dublin and London, marking a push to broaden its footprint beyond U.S. borders.
On the playoff front, Yormark signaled openness to expanding the College Football Playoff beyond the current 12‑team format, a move that could alter the postseason landscape.
The commissioner also pointed to technological enhancements, noting that live commentary from the league’s replay center will accompany officiating reviews, aiming to increase transparency.
In Washington, D.C., Yormark is slated to meet with lawmakers regarding the “Save College Sports Act,” part of a broader zero‑tolerance stance against derogatory remarks that will culminate in a dedicated meeting.
Meanwhile, other conference leaders such as Gene Taylor, Jim Phillips, Kalani Sitake and Deion Sanders were present, underscoring the collaborative environment as the league charts its future.