Pac-12, Big Ten commissioners talk autonomy plans

SAN FRANCISCO – Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott and Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany believe it’s time for the NCAA model to change and for autonomy to be given to the five major football conferences.

Two of college football’s biggest power brokers spoke out on the topic Wednesday during an event to promote the bowl game at the 49ers’ new stadium. The upgraded bowl will be played between teams from the Pac-12 and Big Ten on Dec. 30 in Santa Clara.

Scott says there is “broad support” to let schools from the five major conferences – which also includes the SEC, ACC and Big 12 – decide how their own legislative process works in many areas affecting their athletes.

“I hope we can develop some momentum and act, and act in a way that maybe we haven’t been able to act over the last 25 years,” Delany said.