Nebraska's Big Ten Gamble: Wealthy But Losing

Nebraska is nearing the end of its 16th season in the Big Ten conference, a tenure longer than its previous stint in the Big 12. While the move has brought significant financial benefits, it has coincided with a sharp downturn for the once-dominant football program.

Since joining the Big Ten, Nebraska has achieved double-digit wins only once, in 2012. The team also faced a challenging stretch of missing bowl games every year from 2017 to 2023. This performance, along with a growing distance from traditional rivals like Colorado and Oklahoma, prompted considerable reflection within the athletic department.

During his time as athletic director from 2017 to 2021, Bill Moos reportedly explored a potential return to the Big 12. According to his memoir, Moos initiated conversations with Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby, hoping to facilitate a move. These discussions occurred while Moos was still in his role, with the aim of re-establishing old rivalries.

Despite Moos's efforts to orchestrate a return, the plan did not materialize. Moos retired in 2021 and was succeeded by Trev Alberts, who has since moved on to Texas A&M. Troy Dannen is the current athletic director. As of February 2026, Nebraska continues its membership in the Big Ten conference.