LINCOLN — Big Ten or Big 12?
A possible conference switch for the Huskers will be the top agenda item Friday for the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.
Technically, moving to a different sports conference is “a campus call” that doesn't require the regents' approval, Regents Chairman Bob Phares said.
“But put yourself in the position of the chancellor or the athletic director,” Phares said. “Would you want to make a decision without the advice and consent of the governing board? I don't think so.”
Here's how Varner Hall leaders expect events to play out at the 1 p.m. meeting:
Public comment: People can contribute their two cents' worth during a comment period. Comments usually are limited to five minutes each. If a lot of people show up, testimony probably will be cut off after 30 minutes.
Closed doors: The board probably will call an executive session with UNL Chancellor Harvey Perlman and NU Athletic Director Tom Osborne to discuss the sensitive details of the university's negotiations. Regents interviewed have numerous questions about the proposed switch, including what would be the timetable of a switch and the financial repercussions of leaving the Big 12; whether Nebraska's academic and research standing would benefit from the move; and whether Nebraska's academic agreements with other Big 12 universities — such as its contract for veterinary instruction with Iowa State — would be damaged by a switch.
Presentation: Perlman and Osborne are expected to make a public presentation about the university's options.
Decision time: The board will publicly discuss and vote on a resolution on whether to stay or go.
Back in their court: Before a move becomes final, the Big Ten members will need to vote to accept Nebraska — usually a formality once a school has reached this stage.
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