College Football Landscape Shifts as Non-Power Conferences Prepare for 2026 Changes

SAN DIEGO: In a notable transformation for college football, July 1 marks a significant date for teams transitioning into new conferences. This year, the shift will see Sacramento State and North Dakota State stepping into the FBS realm, changing the dynamics of their respective leagues.

The Mountain West Conference is set for a major overhaul in 2026, welcoming North Dakota State for football only. The Bison have a storied history, having claimed 10 national titles since 2011, including a remarkable stretch of eight championships in nine seasons. They finished their last FCS campaign with an impressive 12-1 record, showcasing their competitive edge as they join the FBS.

Meanwhile, Sacramento State faced challenges as they sought to elevate to the FBS but were initially turned down by the NCAA. However, persistence paid off, and they are now joining the Mid-American Conference (MAC) on a football-only basis. The Hornets, under the leadership of new head coach Alonzo Carter, bring a strong playoff pedigree, having qualified for the postseason in four consecutive seasons prior to their transition.

The MAC will now feature 13 teams, with Sacramento State becoming the farthest west member, greatly expanding the league's geographical reach. The closest rival, Ball State, is nearly 2,000 miles away, reflecting the conference's shift towards a coast-to-coast presence.

As the landscape evolves, the Mountain West will also see significant changes, losing several prominent members to the Pac-12. With the departure of Boise State and others, San Jose State stands as the only remaining team with a conference championship title in the new 10-team setup.

These developments underscore the ongoing realignment in college football, emphasizing the shifting priorities and strategies of programs across the nation as they adapt to a changing environment.