The Sooners and Longhorns leaving the Big 12 for the SEC is a possibility, according to a report in the Houston Chronicle.

The paper reports that Oklahoma and Texas have both reached out to the Southeastern Conference about potentially leaving the Big 12 to join the SEC, citing an unnamed high-ranking college official with knowledge of the situation. According to the story, an announcement could come within a couple weeks.

OU released a statement from a university spokesperson Wednesday that reads: “The college athletics landscape is shifting constantly. We don’t address every anonymous rumor.”

Oklahoma State also released a statement about the story:

“We have heard unconfirmed reports that OU and UT approached Southeastern Conference officials about joining the SEC. We are gathering information and will monitor closely. If true, we would be gravely disappointed. While we place a premium on history, loyalty and trust, be assured, we will aggressively defend and advance what is best for Oklahoma State and our strong athletic program, which continues to excel in the Big 12 and nationally.”

—  Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma is the powerhouse of the Big 12. The Sooners have won the Big 12 championship the last six seasons in a row and are the preseason favorite again this year.

Texas hasn’t won a Big 12 title since 2009 but is one of college sports’ big-name schools.

The Big 12′s TV football contracts -- which OU and Texas both signed -- complicate the issue. They run through 2025. Also, the current SEC schools would have to vote to allow the Sooners and Longhorns to join the conference.

FOX23 will keep you updated on this developing story.

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