I have attempted to evoke chortles before with this shtick.

That the ACC should rename itself the Great A&P Conference. We got Stanford and Cal now, right?

Which would not only be geographically correct, but pay respects to my mother’s favorite grocery.

So more’s the pity that in an ever changing world of commerce, the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company shuttered its doors a decade ago.

Because an incredible naming rights tie in would now present itself.

That the Big 12 is about to slap a commercial sponsor’s name on the league seems frankly inevitable. Much more than Oh Really? And, pretty danged clever all context considered.

Infusion of moolah. Attempt to keep up with the Sankeys and Petittis. Acceptance of the landscape as it has evolved today.

One has to admire the out of the box, forward thinking Brett Yormark, who leads the Big 12.

At least, I do.

Of course, my head continues to spin at the rapid sea changes occurring in college sports. But I’m rollin’ with it. When the ball tips and the pigskin is set in the tee, it matters not. The games are still the games I love, even if the hardwood and gridiron are tipping.

When last week’s somewhat of a shocker broke — and it really shouldn’t have been that big a surprise — I have to assume there were several ACC ADs on the line to Jim Phillips with a plea somewhat to this effect: “Let’s get crackin’.”

I certainly hope so. He who hesitates is etc etc.

So, yeah, if the A&P was still alive, selling Sugar Frosted Flakes and Spam to the masses, there would be a marketing opportunity like no other. A veritable perfect mix and match.

The Big 12 is going to hook up with Allstate it is said. Even if the league’s footprint is not quite that.

As the A&P Conference would be.

Of course, when this comes about, the League That Cares More, will inevitably seek a similar infusion of mo’ money. Because, hey, those weight machines are two months old, and Tyrone Shoelaces is looking for seven figures. As if if already hasn’t commenced the exploration.

Buc-eeSEC anyone?

 * * * * *

It was also reported that the Big 12 is considering an infusion of cash through private equity.

Not sure how that would work.

My immediate response is: That . . . I don’t like.

 * * * * *

So, here’s my suggestion for Florida State and Clemson. You know, the schools who are trying to jump ship, to breach the contract they knowingly signed with fellow league members.

You must have some diehard alums, who have acquired significant wealth with some company.

Get ’em to slap their company’s name on the league you now belong to, and drop those lawsuits.

 * * * * *

Until then, 75 days to kickoff.

— c d kaplan