Welcome to the Future: Pac-12 Conference Rebuilds with Mountain West Schools

Exciting news for college sports fans as the Pac-12 Conference announced the addition of four Mountain West schools to its lineup, marking the beginning of a new era in intercollegiate athletics. Boise State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Fresno State will officially join the Pac-12 in 2026, bringing the conference one step closer to regaining its former glory.

Following recent conference realignment that left the Pac-12 with just two members, the addition of these four schools is a crucial move to meet NCAA bylaws and ensure the conference’s viability. With a two-year grace period to reach a minimum of eight members, the Pac-12 is on track to build momentum and potentially add more schools from the Mountain West in the near future.

Pac-12 commissioner Teresa Gould expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, emphasizing the conference’s commitment to growth and progress. The move comes with a price tag, as each school will be required to pay hefty exit fees and additional costs for joining the conference. However, the Pac-12’s financial resources are well-positioned to support this transition.

Mountain West commissioner Gloria Nevarez emphasized that all departing schools must adhere to conference regulations. While the move may result in financial losses for the four Mountain West schools, the potential benefits of joining a historic conference like the Pac-12 are significant.

Looking ahead, the rebuilt Pac-12 aims to solidify its foundation with core members before considering further expansion. The addition of these four schools opens up exciting possibilities for the future, including a potential regional or national expansion strategy.

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the Pac-12’s resurgence signals a new chapter in collegiate athletics. With the spotlight on upcoming games and the promise of a more competitive conference, fans can look forward to an exciting journey ahead.