[norcard10]

Don't forget the value Cal, Stanford, and Washington would bring the Big Ten academic research consortium. That factors into the equation for the Big Ten.

In terms of overall value to the Big Ten, I'd rank as follows:

1. Washington - Best combo of Football strength and academic research, big market
2. Stanford - Best school in D1, credible Football, big market, great brand
3. Oregon - Big Football school and Nike
4. Cal - Nobel prizes, not atrocious Football, big market and alumni base

The academic consortium plays second fiddle here.  Way overestimating stanford's importance or desirability relative to Oregon as well.

[norcard10]

Don't forget the value Cal, Stanford, and Washington would bring the Big Ten academic research consortium. That factors into the equation for the Big Ten.

In terms of overall value to the Big Ten, I'd rank as follows:

1. Washington - Best combo of Football strength and academic research, big market
2. Stanford - Best school in D1, credible Football, big market, great brand
3. Oregon - Big Football school and Nike
4. Cal - Nobel prizes, not atrocious Football, big market and alumni base

The academic consortium plays second fiddle here.  Way overestimating stanford's importance or desirability relative to Oregon as well.