The Big 12 conference is set to host its two-day football media event at The Star, the Dallas Cowboys training facility in Frisco, which is about 12 miles south of Celina. The gathering begins Tuesday, with coaches and players from all 16 member schools present to discuss upcoming football topics.
A primary focus of the event will be the aftermath of the Brendan Sorsby situation. Nearly four months have passed since news emerged regarding impermissible betting on college football by the Texas Tech quarterback. 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 their support for Sorsby. The conflict escalated last month when the Big 12 initiated a federal lawsuit, leading Sorsby to withdraw his own suit against the NCAA and effectively ending his eligibility for the current season. The dispute has strained relationships between Texas Tech and other league members, raising questions about whether commissioner Brett Yormark can help unify the conference.
Discussions will also center on the proposed expansion of the College Football Playoff from 12 to 24 teams. While the Big 12 and its coaches support the change for its potential to increase accessibility, progress remains stalled. Concerns persist regarding scheduling, particularly the possibility of pushing the semifinals and national championship into February. Some potential solutions, such as moving the season start to Week Zero or eliminating conference championship games, face resistance from other leagues like the SEC.
The impact of the NCAA’s new age-based eligibility model, known as 5-for-5, is another key subject. This rule change eliminates redshirt seasons and waivers for super-seniors, aiming to simplify roster management and reduce transfer activity. However, the model also removes medical hardship waivers for season-ending injuries and may lead coaches to play true freshmen who are not yet prepared for immediate action.