The Big Ten is one of the two biggest conferences in college football, alongside the SEC. As a result, it is one of the leading drivers of revenue in the industry. So, it was not a surprise on Wednesday when insider Dan Wetzel reported that the Big Ten is eyeing a private capital video that would infuse at least $2 billion into its league and schools.
“Sources: Big Ten is in discussions about a private capital deal that would infuse at least $2 billion to the league and its schools, per me and Pete Thamel. Discussions include a 10-year extension of league’s grant of rights until 2046,” Dan Wetzel wrote.
Sources: Big Ten is in discussions about a private capital deal that would infuse at least $2 billion to the league and its schools, per me and @PeteThamel. Discussions include a 10-year extension of league’s grant of rights until 2046.
For @espn:https://t.co/ZMz8d2HD2j
— Dan Wetzel (@DanWetzel) October 1, 2025
This news led to a big reaction in the football world. It would be such a big deal that it even got the attention of some politicians. Notably, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives commented on it on X on Thursday, Washington Republican Michael Baumgartner.
“It’s absurd and outrageous that the same Big 10 Commissioner who wants the SCORE ACT passed by Congress is the same guy trying to bank a pay day from selling PUBLIC UNIVERSITY sports to private equity groups. College sports needs to be RESTORED to a sustainable STUDENT-ATHLETE first model,” Michael Baumgartner wrote.
It’s absurd and outrageous that the same Big10 Commissioner who wants the SCORE ACT passed by Congress is the same guy trying to bank a pay day from selling PUBLIC UNIVERSITY sports to private equity groups. College sports needs to be RESTORED to a sustainable STUDENT-ATHLETE… https://t.co/bHC8W0aKns
— Congressman Michael Baumgartner (@RepBaumgartner) October 2, 2025
Ohio State and Michigan Are Still in Talks with the Big Ten About the Private Capital Deal
The private capital deal being negotiated by the Big Ten has been discussed for months, according to a report from ESPN. The goal of the deal is to ensure the long-term stability of the conference.
According to reports, there is support from most of the league for the deal to go through. However, a few of the league’s biggest teams, including Ohio State and Michigan, are still in discussions with the Big Ten. The league would like to have unanimous support before there is a vote. A final decision on the deal is expected to come in the upcoming weeks.
Read More:
Which College Football Teams Are in the Big Ten Conference?
2025 Big Ten Football Schedule: Who Has the Toughest Path?
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
