UVA and VA Tech no longer viewed as package deal in realignment if they leave ACC

UVA and VA Tech are not beholden to each other as it once appeared they were if both or either wanted to leave the ACC in the next round of conference realignment according to Wahoos247's Jacquie Franciulli.

"I think if Virginia was to pick the ideal spot the Big Ten would be it — due to the AAU accreditation," Franciulli prefaced before saying, "But I think ultimately UVA can be an ideal expansion for both the Big Ten or the SEC because of the TV market UVA would bring. The question with UVA would be, will they be tied with anyone? Would they be tied to Virginia Tech?

"Reading the tea leaves last summer, it appeared Virginia and Virginia Tech could be a package deal in the next round of realignment, but that chatter has simmered a bit. There's some belief that Virginia would be ahead of Miami in the realignment discussion too if the ACC starts to bleed teams in the near future."

UVA predicted to join Big Ten and VA Tech to Big 12 if they leave ACC

Radio host Greg Swaim has UVA joining the Big Ten along with Kansas, Notre Dame, and UNC should the Cavaliers leave the ACC.

"If the so-called 'Super Conferences' begin poaching the Big12 and ACC, it's (Kansas football) to the B1G along with Notre Dame, UNC, and UVA, while FSU, Clemson, OK State, K-State, and Texas Tech to the SEC," Swaim wrote. "There will be other B12 and ACC school poaches as well, but at this time please, no wagering!"

In a separate tweet, Swaim pegged VA Tech as Big 12-bound with Pitt, Louisville, and NC State in the same scenario.

"Yormark hints that the Big12 will be expanding...soon, and mark it down they'll all come from the ACC," Swaim said, sharing a photo of the four schools in the post.

The Commonwealth Clash appears to have little priority in the next round of realignment.