Alignment just because:
Chronically:

1. NCAA approves conference semifinals over expanded playoffs. Also grants conferences ability to determine who and how a school enters a ccg or semifinal game; affiliated members included

2. Norte Dame gains access to ACC tournament; must win allACC games that season plus be ranked above 4th best ACC school.

3. Big 12 considers expansion options, including PAC members. Big Ten makes play for OU and KU.

4. SEC counters with OU/OSU offer which is accepted.

5. Big 12 at point of no return. PAC doesn't make enough money to move there, B1G only interested in a couple schools, Texas doesn't want to follow Aggy, ACC want LHN kilt.

6. Texas keeps Big 12 together, but they become a partial member in football and gain Big 12 playoff access similar to Norte Dame.

7. Kansas moves to the B1G for stability. After lack of options, Iowa State added after Penn State sponsors West Virginia for membership, but turned down by B1G presidents.

8. Big 12 reforms with the best schools from the MWC and American.