FWIW, son's first college game was played in Clemson against Irvine, and since then some other west coast teams have played (Pacific Tigers). Last weekend Michigan was in South Carolina, so it is not all east vs. west, but north vs. sout as well. I don't think this is a new thing, just happening more often due to teams wanting to face other competitive teams in other geographic areas. And some of those larger programs are willing to travel, where as in the past they hosted more than traveled. The kids actually enjoy the change of venue as well.