Ferentz not surprised about Big Ten expansion halt

IOWA CITY - Big Ten officials announced Sunday that 12 schools is the optimum number for the league and have concluded recent expansion efforts.

“Following detailed discussions at today's meeting, my colleagues and I can report that we believe that this process has reached its natural conclusion,” Big Ten Council of Presidents/Chancellors Chair and Indiana University President Michael McRobbie said. “We are pleased with the addition of Nebraska and look forward to working with our colleagues there in the years ahead.”

The league announced one year ago it planned to explore expansion for 12-to-18 months. In June, the league invited Nebraska as its 12th member. The process was expedited because the Big 12 gave Nebraska a one-week timetable to commit to the league or leave.

Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz said he was unaware that the Big Ten made its decision and wasn't surprised when he heard its outcome.

“I think it's (future expansion) possible, but you'd have to have a good reason for it and most importantly some teams that they'd feel really good about adding,” Ferentz said. “I'm not sure where those teams would come from unless there's a breakup of some of the other leagues. Anything is possible. TCU is in the Big East now, so anything is possible. My alma mater (Connecticut) is in the Fiesta Bowl, so, you know, who knows.”

The league expanded primarily for football, which will divide into two divisions next year and play a championship game. Iowa will compete in a division with Nebraska, Minnesota, Michigan, Michigan State and Northwestern.