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Ranking the 14 Most Likely SEC Expansion Candidates

ByMatthew Bartlett|
Dec 4, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; The SEC logo on the playing field at the Georgia Dome in preparation for the SEC Championship between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Florida Gators Saturday. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; The SEC logo on the playing field at the Georgia Dome in preparation for the SEC Championship between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Florida Gators Saturday. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
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SEC Expansion
Dec 3, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys mascot Pistol Pete reacts during the first quarter against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

4. Oklahoma State (Big 12)

Why SEC Expansion with Oklahoma State Makes Sense

If the SEC is going to expand by adding a pair of teams, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are the best pairing available. The Big 12 is fading and Bedlam is one of the most exciting rivalries in collegiate athletics. Moving further into the Midwest would grow the footprint of the conference.

A 16 team super-conference would necessitate 8 team divisions. The two Oklahoma schools would slide right in to the SEC West along with Missouri as the Alabama schools moved to the East. Then the divisions would be split right down the Mississippi-Alabama border. A perfect geographic fit.

Likelihood of Happening

35 percent. Adding Oklahoma State would require Oklahoma to come as well. Adding Oklahoma to the SEC would help the brand tremendously. Oklahoma State on the other hand would feel more like a throw in. There’s a good chance that the SEC adds both teams, but Oklahoma is by far the preferred option.