The PAC12 isn't way behind the Big 12 in that regard. It's close.
What the Big 12 cannot afford to do, according to multiple industry sources, is stand pat. There is still the lingering question of who even has leverage in adding teams between the Pac-12 and Big 12.
One industry source gave what was termed a slight lean to the Big 12 in being able to snatch teams from the other conference.
The difference in earning value between the Big 12 and Pac-12 would be "negligible" after this round of realignment, but in expanding, the Big 12 would at least be fortifying itself while diminishing the Pac-12.
Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah bring an annual average value (AAV) that at least matches the 12 members of the Big 12 set to remain with the league once Texas and Oklahoma leave in 2025.