After losing ten teams in a mass exodus last year, the Pac-12 Conference is rebuilding with a plan to add four teams from the Mountain West Conference. The move aims to bring the once-struggling league back to prominence in college athletics.
Over the past year, the Pac-12 Conference has faced unprecedented challenges with the mass departure of ten of its member schools. However, the conference has shown resilience by announcing plans to add four new teams from the Mountain West Conference, marking a significant step in its resurgence.
As first reported by Yahoo Sports and confirmed by multiple sources, the Pac-12 will welcome Fresno State, Colorado State, Boise State, and San Diego State into its fold. This move would bring the conference to six teams, with the remaining members, Washington State and Oregon State, playing a pivotal role in approving the expansion.
Pac-12 Rises from Ashes: Adds Four Mountain West Schools, Plans for Expansion
Currently, the Pac-12 operates under a "grace period" granted by the NCAA, which maintains its status as an FBS conference. However, this period ends in 2026, necessitating the addition of two more teams to meet the required eight institutions. The new teams will begin competing in the Pac-12 in 2026.
The Pac-12's decision to expand is driven by several factors. Firstly, it aims to preserve the conference's recognition as an FBS conference among the 130 FBS schools. Secondly, the addition of teams from the Mountain West enhances the Pac-12's geographic footprint, particularly in key markets.
Pac-12 Rises from Ashes: Adds Four Mountain West Schools, Plans for Expansion
The departing Mountain West schools will pay a hefty $60 million in exit fees to join the Pac-12. This windfall will enable the Mountain West to explore options for adding other G-5 schools or potentially promoting FCS institutions.
Despite losing its "Power Five" status, the Pac-12 anticipates future financial gains. The upcoming college football playoff contract and potential revenue sharing from the NCAA Tournament offer opportunities for increased revenue, making the conference attractive to other schools.
Pac-12 Rises from Ashes: Adds Four Mountain West Schools, Plans for Expansion
The expansion will necessitate a new media rights deal for the Pac-12. The conference has several options to consider, including ESPN, Apple TV, and other networks. Securing a lucrative deal will be crucial for the Pac-12's long-term financial stability.
The Pac-12's expansion could trigger further realignment in college athletics. Schools from other "Group of Five" conferences may consider joining the Pac-12, especially if the financial incentives are substantial. Teams from the ACC and other power conferences are not immune to the potential for movement.
The Pac-12's resurgence marks a significant development in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics. While the new conference may not possess the same level of pedigree as before, the Pac-12 name still holds weight and has the potential to regain prominence in the years to come.
With the acquisition of new teams, the Pac-12 hopes to reclaim its automatic bid to the College Football Playoff. The conference will need to prove its competitiveness at the highest level to regain this privilege.
The ongoing legal battles surrounding revenue-sharing models could impact the future of realignment. The outcome of these cases will shape the financial landscape of college athletics and potentially influence the decisions of schools considering conference changes.
The Pac-12's decision to expand is a bold move that signals the conference's determination to remain a force in college athletics. The addition of four Mountain West schools, combined with the potential for further expansion and revenue growth, positions the Pac-12 for a bright future. As realignment continues to reshape the sports landscape, the Pac-12's rebirth stands as a testament to its resilience and ambition.
