I think there are three seperations in terms of CFB teams in Texas -

Major players: UT, aTm

Established teams (Historically significant): TTU, Baylor, TCU, SMU, Rice, UH

Start ups: UNT, TxSt, UTSA, UTEP

The SWC used to dominate the state, then the BigXII for the most part. Now that A&M has gone to the SEC, that makes Texas a diverse conference set up. My opinion is that Major conferences will see market potential in the state. If conferences continue to change / grow, I see the state of Texas as a major player (just like Florida) due to recruiting, markets, and the amount of established teams. I have no idea how realignment will happen, but as a native Texan, I wouldnt mind seeing this:

UT, TTU, TCU, BU - remain in BigXII

A&M - SEC loner

UH, SMU - PAC

RICE, UNT - AAC

UTEP, TxSt, UTSA - MWC


This would theoretically make the teams and fans of the teams above happy, IMO. As an SMU fan, I would like to be in an academically elite conference that is equal to our peers. A&M maintains their SEC love affair, the existing composition of B12 schools stay together, AAC takes RICE and UNT - decent replacements, and the remaining start ups unite under the MWC where they have the ability to grow. Just my take on it...