A delightful find!
Some background, the SEC was NEVER interested in the University of Texas. There are several cogent facts that need to come to light.
(1.) Texas would never have the votes. Alabama was adamant against Texas even being considered. The SEC was reminded of prior negotiations with Texas in 1986 in which Deloss Dodds wanted Texas admitted to the SEC.
It wasn't until later that the SEC found out that the "leak" to the Texas Legislature was from law makers representing the University of Texas interests before the legislature finance committee. Texas made sure the legislature enjoined Texas from moving conferences unless Texas A&M was also part. It gave Texas an out so that allowed cover for additional funding bills for Austin and it's system.
The SEC was gamed, we did not like it, and more importantly, we remembered.
(2.) Frank Broyles of Arkansas gave us invaluable insight into the University of Texas tactics and how Texas
thinks and operates.
(3.) The University of Missouri was approached through back channels when they expressed interest in moving to the B1G.
(4.) Network development required major TV markets. As the SEC saw the failed Texas move to the PAC 12, we also saw opportunity. When Texas A&M President Loftin started informal inquiries, we were able to show analytics why the move made sense. Three prominent TV markets to add to Atlanta. Add Missouri with KC/St Louis, that gave Bristol and Madison Avenue all the information they needed on the SEC Network.
(5.) The rest is history.
Texas never was a thought in the entire conference realignment for the SEC. They may think so, but thinking
you're Brad Pitt doesn't make you Brad Pitt.
The SEC has the correct Texas school.
Roll Tide