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New Big Ten Alliances
By Jon “JR” Rhoades from The Big Ten Huddle
In a bold move reshaping the landscape of college football, the Big Ten Conference has expanded its roster to include powerhouse teams from the West Coast. The addition of UCLA, USC, Oregon, and Washington in 2024 marks a seismic shift in the conference’s dynamics, sparking unexpected alliances and reshuffling traditional rivalries.
While longstanding animosities have defined matchups between teams like USC and Michigan, recent developments suggest a surprising camaraderie emerging among fans. Evidence from social media platforms indicates a palpable shift towards solidarity, exemplified by Trojans and Wolverines finding common ground in their shared distaste for Notre Dame. This newfound alliance signals a departure from age-old rivalries, ushering in an era of collaboration and mutual support.
The seeds of this paradigm shift were sown by unlikely pairings such as Ohio State and Oregon, whose fan bases began to align in recent seasons. Social media posts and fan interactions attest to the growing affinity between these historically disparate teams, laying the groundwork for broader coalitions within the Big Ten.
Amidst this realignment, questions arise about the future alliances of newcomers UCLA and Washington. Drawing parallels between their respective programs and established Big Ten teams, observers speculate on potential partnerships. UCLA’s resemblance to Michigan State in their shared battle against Blue Blood programs hints at a possible allegiance with Michigan State and USC. Similarly, Washington’s symbolic connection to Michigan prompts speculation about alliances with teams like Wisconsin, Iowa, or Minnesota, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose.
As the Big Ten welcomes these new contenders, fans old and new alike are forging alliances that transcend traditional boundaries. Embracing the spirit of collaboration and unity, they are poised to reshape the landscape of college football and redefine the meaning of allegiance in the Big Ten Conference.
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