Q&A with Big 12's Chuck Neinas: ‘We don't give anyone a deadline'

Is there a consensus on whether league members want 10 or 12 teams?

There is no consensus. When we had an athletic director's meeting there were a couple (of schools) who wanted to stay at nine. There's not even a plurality (most votes but not a majority). Someone said it's 10 or 12 but our first mission is to get a new institution, which is TCU. The second is to maintain Missouri. When that is resolved we can look ahead.

Is there a deadline for Missouri?

We don't give anyone a deadline. At the end of the academic year, maybe. Everybody has to go through a process. Each institution might have a different process they have to follow. In some instances, the board has already given authority to the chief executive officer. But that hasn't happened in all cases. Some have to wait for a normal (monthly) board meeting.

Has Missouri given you a timetable when it will reach a decision?

No, they haven't.

Could Missouri's decision come this week?

No, I wouldn't expect it within a week.

What has been Fox Sports' executive reaction considering they signed a 15-year deal with the Big 12 that kicks in next season?

Fox has been very cooperative. They're willing to work with us, no question.

Does Fox want to renegotiate?

No, no, I'm just saying they understand what the situation is. We'll work through it.