One of my best sources in the Big 12 just indicated that Georgia Tech has also put out informal feelers to the Big 12 about the Big 12's potential expansion plans, and that source said Georgia Tech would be very appealing as a potential expansion target because of its strong academics.

(Georgia Tech is No. 36 on the most recent U.S. News and World Report rankings of top universities. Texas is No. 45.)

When I asked if Georgia Tech could rise above Florida State or Clemson in terms of interest from members of the league, I was told, "It's possible."

Georgia Tech has an underrated football tradition. Former coaches include John Heisman, for whom the Heisman Trophy is named; Bobby Dodd, for whom the national coach of the year trophy is named; and Bobby Ross, who won a share of the national title in 1990 (along with Colorado).

Former Cowboys coach Chan Gailey coached at Georgia Tech from 2002-2007 before being replaced by the option-loving Paul Johnson, who is currently there.

Recent stars include LB Keith Brooking and WR Calvin Johnson.

A couple sources said Monday that even though Virginia Tech may have put out informal feelers about the Big 12's plans, the Hokies may be more of a candidate to join the SEC - if the SEC is still looking to expand beyond 14.

But Florida State, Clemson, Va Tech, Miami (Fla) and now Georgia Tech of the ACC have all put out informal feelers to the Big 12 about potential expansion plans, sources in the Big 12 have told Orangebloods.com.



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