Reviving the Pac-12: The Bold Moves to Rebuild a Powerhouse

The Pac-12 conference is gearing up for a significant transformation, eyeing a strategic rebuild to regain its former glory. With whispers of targeting Mountain West schools like Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Colorado State, the conference is poised to take decisive action. As soon as this week, these institutions could officially apply for membership, setting the stage for a new era in college athletics.

The Current Landscape of the Pac-12

Currently, the Pac-12 stands as a two-member conference, comprised solely of Oregon State and Washington State. This dramatic reduction of membership came after a series of seismic shifts in college football, where other power conferences lured away prominent teams, leaving the Pac-12 in a precarious position.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

• Operating with Few Members: NCAA regulations allow a conference to function with only two schools for a limited time, providing the Pac-12 with a temporary buffer to rebuild.
• Leadership Changes: The recent appointment of Teresa Gould as commissioner reflects a strategic effort to steer the conference toward a sustainable future.
• Rebuilding Priorities: Leaders at Oregon State and Washington State have consistently emphasized their commitment to reestablishing the conference's strength.

The Road to Membership Applications

With the Mountain West's football scheduling agreement set to expire for 2025, the timing for potential new members could not be better. In a recent interview, Washington State President Kirk Schulz hinted at the Cougars' and Beavers' long-term strategies, focusing on sustainable growth and competitive positioning within the league.

Key Considerations for New Members

• Financial Implications: Any new entrants would incur close to $30 million in exit fees to the Mountain West, a significant financial hurdle.
• Future Prospects: New members would officially join the Pac-12 in 2026, with both Oregon State and Washington State looking to leverage their remaining resources effectively.
• Affiliate Memberships: The two schools also have a two-year agreement to participate as affiliate members of the West Coast Conference for basketball and other Olympic sports.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Pac-12

With tens of millions available from previous College Football Playoff agreements and NCAA revenue, Oregon State and Washington State have a financial foundation to support their rebuild. As they navigate this pivotal moment, the focus will be on creating a competitive environment conducive to winning championships and fostering growth.

In Conclusion

The Pac-12's efforts to attract new members signal a proactive approach to revitalize the conference. With a keen eye on the future, Oregon State and Washington State are determined to lead the charge toward a more prosperous and competitive Pac-12 landscape.

What do you think?

• Will the Pac-12 successfully rebuild its reputation with these new additions?
• Are the financial implications of joining the Pac-12 worth it for these Mountain West schools?
• Could this move signal a broader shift in college athletics, prioritizing stability over tradition?
• Should Oregon State and Washington State consider merging with another conference instead?