The Big 12 conference is hosting its two-day football media event at The Star, the Dallas Cowboys training facility in Frisco, which is located about 6 miles south of Prosper. The event begins Tuesday, with coaches and players from all 16 member schools attending to discuss upcoming football topics.
A primary focus of the gathering is the aftermath of the Brendan Sorsby situation. Nearly four months have passed since news emerged regarding impermissible betting on college football by Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby. The incident triggered a series of legal actions, including lawsuits filed against the NCAA and Texas Tech, while school officials and booster Cody Campbell maintained support for the quarterback.
The conflict escalated last month when the Big 12 filed a federal lawsuit, leading Sorsby to withdraw his own lawsuit against the NCAA and effectively ending his chance to play this season. The dispute has strained relationships between Texas Tech and the other 15 league members, raising questions about whether commissioner Brett Yormark can help reunite the conference.
Another major topic is the proposed expansion of the College Football Playoff from 12 to 24 teams. The Big 12 and its coaches have supported the idea, citing increased accessibility for more teams. However, progress remains stalled due to scheduling concerns.
Critics worry that expansion would push the semifinals and national championship game into February, potentially conflicting with the spring academic calendar. Some potential solutions include moving the season start to Week Zero or eliminating conference championship games, though the latter faces resistance from leagues like the SEC.
The conference is also addressing the impact of the NCAA’s new age-based eligibility model, known as "5-for-5." This rule eliminates redshirt seasons and waivers for super-seniors older than 24, aiming to simplify roster management and slow the transfer process.
