Stanford and Berkeley confront fascinating choices in turbulent times

If things take a turn for the worse in the Pac-12 Conference — which principally means that Oregon and Washington leave — would Stanford and Cal abandon football? It’s not likely, but it’s not out of the question, either.

Jon Wilner of the Wilner Hotline fielded a reader question about the matter:

This issue is made more complicated by broader forces at work in college sports.

Before wondering if the Bears will field a team, we should address whether they will want to field a team given the likelihood of athletes eventually being declared employees or pseudo-employees.

Will Cal’s administration agree to participate in a competitive landscape where pay-for-play is legal, and unavoidable? We aren’t convinced. (Same for Stanford, by the way.)

As for the Bears’ ultimate landing spot, the chances of finding a home at the Power Five level are better than 50 percent. But it’s hardly assured — more like 60/40 than 90/10.

And yes, the financial factor is massive, not only with football revenue servicing the debt on the stadium renovation but also funding all those Olympic sports.