Will UH join the Big 12? Here's how fans feel about it

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- College football fans decked out in game day attire packed the parking lots at NRG Stadium Saturday evening as the University of Houston hosted Texas Tech.

It was a meeting of old Southwest Conference rivals that could turn into a yearly game if the Coogs join the Big 12.

"With COVID, I guess going on two years, we have been waiting for a long time," said a UH fan. "We've all been waiting for this moment."

For many, it's more than a game. It's a family tradition.

"My dad went here. So did my two brothers. I went to school here," said the fan.

Leslie Landrum brought her family to the game in honor of her father, who was a UH alum.

"He died eight years ago, so what a great day to celebrate him," said Landrum.

A big topic of conversation among tailgaters was the possibility of UH joining the Big 12 conference.

Fans said the Coogs are ready to be a part of a more competitive conference.

"We got a team that can take the challenge and put Houston on the map," said a fan.

And it's not just UH fans in support. Texas Tech fans are also on board.

"I think it would be a great addition," said a Tech fan. "It would be great to have the old comradery of the old Southwest conference here."

A vote of the conference's 10 members is required to approve candidate schools. The Big 12 presidents are expected to meet next week.