The idea of Washington State and Oregon State, the "Pac-2" holdovers, eventually becoming viable Big 12 expansion candidates is a widely discussed topic in college football realignment, especially with the current state of the Pac-12. While they've recently rebuilt their conference with Mountain West additions and a new media deal, many analysts see this as a temporary arrangement, setting the stage for future moves.

Here's why Washington State and Oregon State could eventually be attractive Big 12 expansion candidates:

"Power Four" Status and Proven Competitiveness:

• Despite the mass exodus from the Pac-12, both Oregon State and Washington State have consistently demonstrated their ability to compete at a "Power Five" (now "Power Four") level in football. They've produced NFL talent, had strong seasons, and boast respected coaching staffs. Adding them wouldn't dilute the Big 12's competitive product; in fact, it would enhance it.
• For example, Oregon State had a strong 2023 season, and Washington State has often proven to be a tough out, even against top-tier opponents.

Geographic Expansion and Media Market Foothold:

• Adding WSU and OSU would give the Big 12 a true coast-to-coast presence, expanding its geographic footprint into the Pacific Northwest. This could tap into new media markets and fan bases, potentially increasing overall viewership and value for future media rights negotiations.
• Having teams in the Pacific time zone allows for valuable late-night television inventory, which can be attractive to broadcast partners like ESPN and FOX, who already carry the Big 12's primary media rights.

Recruiting Territory Access:

• The states of Washington and Oregon, while not as talent-rich as Texas or Florida, consistently produce solid high school football talent. A Big 12 presence in these states could provide better access to those recruiting grounds for all conference members.

Financial Disparity as a Driving Force:

• This is arguably the most critical factor. The "new" Pac-12, even with its recent additions and a new media deal with CBS Sports, is projected to pay its members significantly less than the Big 12.
• Estimates for the new Pac-12 media deal (starting 2026) suggest payouts between $7 million and $12 million per school annually.
• In contrast, the Big 12 is expected to pay its full members around $50 million per school annually starting in 2025.
• The massive difference (a potential jump from ~$10 million to ~$50 million) creates an almost irresistible financial incentive for Oregon State and Washington State to eventually seek an upgrade to a Big 12-level conference if the opportunity arises.

Seeking Long-Term Stability:

• While Oregon State and Washington State have valiantly rebuilt the Pac-12, the long-term stability of this new configuration remains a question mark, especially as the major conference media rights deals (Big Ten, Big 12, SEC) expire around 2030-2031. If the current Pac-12 media deal doesn't grow significantly by then, its members, including WSU and OSU, will be looking for more financially robust and stable homes.

In summary, while Washington State and Oregon State are currently committed to rebuilding the Pac-12, their strong athletic programs, geographic location, and the vast financial chasm between their current media deal and the Big 12's make them highly viable candidates should the Big 12 look to expand further in the future. The question is less about if they're viable, and more about when the circumstances align for such a move.