In a significant shake-up in college sports, teams from the Pac-12 have started leaving for other conferences, triggering a whirlwind of changes across the NCAA landscape. The recent news from the Pac-12 has left the remaining teams in a tough spot as they navigate their options moving forward.
Beginning in the 2026 season, teams like Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Utah State, and San Diego State will be joining the Pac-12. This marks an essential step for the conference as it aims to keep its status intact after losing key members to other leagues.
This shift has implications beyond the Pac-12, as it can create ripple effects in the Group of Five conferences. The Mountain West, from which many of these new Pac-12 teams are departing, will need to quickly replenish its roster. While they still have teams committed, the urgency to find new members is pressing.
It’s also come to light that the Pac-12 might face further challenges. For instance, Florida State and Clemson are in legal disputes with the ACC over media deals and conference rules. Their future in the ACC is uncertain, and if they decide to leave, it could lead to more significant changes across the college sports realm.
Meanwhile, the remaining two teams in the Pac-12, Oregon State and Washington State, also known as the Pac-2, are left without many choices as they venture into their uncertain season. They have managed to strike a scheduling alliance with Mountain West teams, but it does not provide a path to a conference championship.
As of now, the college sports landscape is filled with shifting alliances, contract disputes, and uncertain futures. The upcoming years will be pivotal as teams look to stabilize their programs and seek new opportunities amid this ongoing realignment.
