Right, but it depends on what he means by “big” sports. I’ve been to football games at several MW schools, and it’s a good atmosphere and I had a great time. And I’ve been to games at several Big Ten schools, and it’s a completely different level. I’ve never been to a game at a Pac 12 school, but being a power five conference, I’m guessing it’s a “stronger” atmosphere (I’m not sure what the right word is) because they are higher visibility.
Anyway, there are lots of options for him.