Texas A&M Tell Big 12 They'll Pursue Options: Move to SEC Set Things in Motion?

It appears that Texas A&M moving from the Big 12 to the SEC is looking more likely. The SEC and the school have been talking about such a move since last June.

Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe said he wants Texas A&M to stay but it may be too late. A letter from Texas A&M president R. Bowen Loftin was delivered Thursday afternoon to the commissioner saying the university is exploring its options on possibly leaving the conference.  

Let the games begin.

Why Does Texas A&M Want To Leave the BIG 12?

Rumors have it that the deal between the Texas Longhorns and ESPN creating the "Longhorn Network" is what started these escape plans.

The Longhorn Network is a channel dedicated pretty much to the entire University of Texas. It will broadcast up to 20 different sports involving the school.

This will really help Texas in the recruiting department and leaves the little brother even further behind.

Will the Grass Really Be Greener in the SEC?

In a way, yes.

There is more stability in the SEC that would give the Aggies a chance to grow their program and not have to worry about big brother breathing down their neck. There is also more money in the SEC for them as well and would be put on a national stage more often.

As far as a competitive standpoint, this team has a long way to go. You're leaving the Big 12 and entering the most competitive conference in the country where more than half are in the AP Poll Top 25. The SEC is a conference for the big boys and it would be a while before they could hang with them.

Overall it would be a good move for them. It will just take some time.

Who Will Join Texas A&M in the SEC?

Keep in mind that all of these are rumors. Texas A&M has yet to apply for admission to the SEC and the SEC has yet to extend an invitation.

But if Texas A&M does in fact join the SEC that would make 13 teams. The SEC would then probably be looking for a partner to make it even and create the biggest conference in the country at 14.

Virgina Tech may be one of them due to the quality and culture of their football program.

Other possible teams that are rumored to be in the conversation are Clemson, Florida State, North Carolina and Maryland.