Behind Notre Dame, the SEC and Big Ten covet UNC in future conference realignment the most. As media consultant Jim Williams explains, though, the "It Just Means More" conference and the B1G have different reasons for wanting the Tar Heels.
The Big Ten likes the Tar Heels' academics and entry-point into the South. The SEC likes what UNC would mean for its mission to further itself as a powerhouse conference while maintaining a regional identity.
"If the SEC and the Big Ten were to compete for a school other than Notre Dame, it would be North Carolina," Williams told me. "Both conferences view them as a suitable addition. The Big Ten values their strong academics, solid sports program, and the entry it provides into the southern region. For the SEC, UNC complements their southern footprint and offers many attractive qualities."
North Carolina was previously a target of the Big Ten in the late 2000s along with Maryland. Ultimately, though, the Terps joined Rutgers in the B1G while UNC stayed loyal to the ACC; which it had been since 1953.
Industry insiders agree: UNC is the SEC's most appealing target in the ACC
USA Today's Blake Toppmeyer wrote in June that only two ACC schools would make a jump to the SEC in future conference realignment -- and of any school in the conference, UNC appeals to the SEC the most with the SEC Network headquartered in Charlotte.
"I think North Carolina would most appeal to the SEC," Toppmeyer prefaced before saying, "A big brand, and UNC would expand the footprint into bordering terrain. The Tar Heels would deliver the growing Charlotte market, where the SEC Network is based."
Throw in Dennis Dodd reporting that Notre Dame and North Carolina are the SEC's only expansion targets, and you have an industry consensus: the SEC wants UNC and won't make just any move to add to its ranks.