Big Ten Football: Top 5 expansion candidates for the conference

If the Big Ten was forced to turn to the Group of Five for one of its next expansion candidates, its search would most logically begin with the MAC. Situated within the same geographic area as the Big Ten, the MAC has several teams that could potentially match wits with Power Five competition on a regular basis.

The one that most closely hews to the Big Ten’s academic requirements would be the University of Ohio. The Bobcats were a charter member of the MAC, and they would provide the Buckeye State with a second Big Ten member. Other Ohio schools such as Toledo also offer an interesting case, but the Bobcats offer a more academically renowned option from the MAC.

On the field, the Bobcats have been a consistent performer under former Nebraska head coach Frank Solich. Ohio has finished .500 or or better in 11 of the past 12 seasons, and a bump up in conference affiliation could fortify its position in the FBS hierarchy.

Next: Top 5 expansion candidates for the SEC

Of course, the Big Ten would have to suddenly find itself losing its position of strength to have to turn to the Group of Five. But if it became a matter of necessity, the Bobcats would be at or near the top of the conference’s expansion wish list due to both its academic and athletic track record.