The ACC has recently announced the addition of Cal, Stanford, and SMU as members beginning in the 2024-25 season. This move has been seen as a win-win for both the schools and the conference as a whole.
Cal and Stanford were able to secure spots in the ACC after a nerve-wracking month where the Pac-12 conference had already fallen apart. This is a significant achievement for both schools, allowing them to join a highly respected and storied conference. It also provides stability for their athletic programs and allows them to compete at a high level.
SMU, on the other hand, is returning to the top tier of Division I almost 40 years after the NCAA penalized their football program with the death penalty. This is a momentous occasion for the university and a chance for them to rebuild and redeem themselves. Joining the ACC will give them the opportunity to compete against top-tier programs and gain exposure.
From the perspective of the ACC, this expansion serves as a preemptive move to protect the conference in case any of its current powerhouse schools, such as Florida State, North Carolina, or Clemson, decide to leave in the future. These schools reportedly voted against the expansion, indicating their hesitation to potentially lose these powerhouses.
In addition to the protection it provides, the addition of Cal, Stanford, and SMU also expands the conference’s media markets. The Bay Area, where Cal and Stanford are located, is a highly valuable market with a large fan base and media presence. This will bring more revenue and exposure to the conference as a whole.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Cal and Stanford adds to the academic reputation of the ACC. Both universities are highly respected and will enhance the conference’s overall image. It also allows for collaboration and partnerships in research and academics between schools.
Overall, the addition of Cal, Stanford, and SMU to the ACC is seen as a positive move. It provides stability and opportunity for the schools involved while also protecting the conference’s future. The expansion brings in valuable media markets and enhances the academic standing of the conference. It will be interesting to see how these new members integrate into the ACC and how it impacts the landscape of college sports.
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