The Southeastern Conference has formally approved Texas A&M as its 13th member. There are legal issues remaining, most notably from Baylor. It seems the Bears believe they might be left alone in the Big-12 8, if Texas, Oklahoma and others bolt for the Pac-12.
Here is the official statement from the offices of the Southeastern Conference:
Statement from Dr. Bernie Machen, Chair, Southeastern Conference Presidents and Chancellors:
After receiving unanimous written assurance from the Big 12 on September 2 that the Southeastern Conference was free to accept Texas A&M to join as a new member, the presidents and chancellors of the SEC met last night with the intention of accepting the application of Texas A&M to be the newest member of the SEC. We were notified yesterday afternoon that at least one Big 12 institution had withdrawn its previous consent and was considering legal action. The SEC has stated that to consider an institution for membership, there must be no contractual hindrances to its departure. The SEC voted unanimously to accept Texas A&M University as a member upon receiving acceptable reconfirmation that the Big 12 and its members have reaffirmed the letter dated September 2, 2011.
It makes sense to eventually add a 14th team as an uneven number of members would necessate a bye week, every week. Missouri and West Virginia are reportedly next on the SEC’s wish list.
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