Only the ACC and Big 12 have any power to push back on the Big Ten and SEC's plans for the future. But there are tough decisions to make.
theathletic.com
this article is behind a paywall, but basically reinforces your point.
acc and b12 are in a **** position. either transparently acknowledge that the sec and big are now better conferences in exchange for some guaranteed playoff spots or risk the sec and big leaving entirely to start up an independent new level.
the money and competitive disadvantages of being so obviously relegated to a 2nd tier conference will only grow over time.
the problem is that the ship has already sailed. we were not in a position to get a seat at the big kids table. once usc did their thing, we were fooooked.
now we make the best of it.