The Pac-12 Conference, once a dominant force in college sports, ultimately doomed itself through a combination of poor leadership, missed opportunities, and an inability to adapt to the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. The conference, known for its prestigious programs like USC, UCLA, and Oregon, failed to capitalize on the growing popularity and financial potential of college football, which left it vulnerable to poaching and instability.

One of the key missteps was the conference's failure to secure a lucrative media deal that could compete with the revenue streams of the SEC and Big Ten. As television rights became a major driving force in conference expansion and sustainability, the Pac-12 lagged behind. Commissioner Larry Scott’s decision to launch the Pac-12 Network without partnering with a major distribution platform severely limited the network’s reach and profitability. This decision left member schools frustrated with the lack of financial returns, especially as the SEC and Big Ten thrived under their own media contracts.

Additionally, the Pac-12 struggled with its geographical isolation and time-zone disadvantages, which made it harder to capture national attention for its football games. East Coast viewers were often unable to watch marquee matchups due to late start times, further diminishing the conference's national exposure.

As other conferences aggressively pursued expansion and aligned themselves with powerhouse programs, the Pac-12 stood still. The final blow came when USC and UCLA, the two flagship programs, announced their departure for the Big Ten, signaling the collapse of the conference. Without its marquee brands, the Pac-12’s identity and influence faded, leaving Oregon State and Washington State scrambling for a future. In the end, it was a combination of mismanagement, media failure, and a lack of foresight that led to the Pac-12's downfall.

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

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