The Demise of the Pac-12: A Story of Betrayal and Mismanagement

TLDRThe Pac-12 conference, once considered a force to be reckoned with, has faced a series of challenges and setbacks in recent years. From a failed TV network to missed opportunities for expansion, the conference has struggled to maintain its relevance and financial stability. This comprehensive summary explores the key events and decisions that led to the demise of the Pac-12 and highlights the failures of its former commissioner, Larry Scott.

Key insights

🔥The Pac-12 conference was once a powerhouse in college sports, but its reputation and financial stability have been eroded in recent years.

💰The Pac-12's attempt to launch its own TV network, the Pac-12 Network, was met with limited success and failed to secure widespread distribution.

📺The conference's decision not to expand when given the opportunity in 2011 and 2021 has further weakened its position and limited its potential for growth.

🤝The Pac-12, Big Ten, and ACC formed an alliance in response to the growing influence of the SEC and ESPN in college football.

👑The appointment of George Kliavkoff as the new Pac-12 commissioner brings hope for a turnaround, but significant challenges remain.

Q&A

What led to the decline of the Pac-12 conference?

—The decline of the Pac-12 can be attributed to a combination of factors, including mismanagement, a failed TV network, missed opportunities for expansion, and increased competition from other conferences.

Why did the Pac-12 Network fail to gain widespread distribution?

—The Pac-12 Network's high asking price, coupled with its inability to secure deals with major cable carriers like DirecTV, limited its reach and viewership.

Why did the Pac-12 opt not to expand when given the opportunity?

—The Pac-12's decision not to expand in 2011 and 2021 can be attributed to a combination of arrogance, shortsightedness, and a lack of strategic vision.

What is the significance of the alliance between the Pac-12, Big Ten, and ACC?

—The alliance was formed as a strategic response to the dominance of the SEC and ESPN in college football, aiming to protect the collective interests of the three conferences.

Can George Kliavkoff turn things around for the Pac-12?

—While the appointment of George Kliavkoff as the new Pac-12 commissioner brings hope for a turnaround, he faces significant challenges in rebuilding the conference's reputation, securing better TV deals, and fostering a culture of collaboration among member schools.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the decline of the Pac-12 conference and the challenges it has faced in recent years.

02:49The Pac-12 Network's failed launch and its impact on the conference's financial stability and exposure.

06:01Missed opportunities for expansion and the consequences of the conference's decision not to add new schools.

09:49The formation of an alliance between the Pac-12, Big Ten, and ACC in response to the growing influence of the SEC.

12:46George Kliavkoff's appointment as the new Pac-12 commissioner and the challenges he faces in revitalizing the conference.

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