| FBS Football Conferences |
| School |
Conference |
|
|
ACC Expansion & Realignment
|
Clemson |
ACC |
No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Duke |
ACC |
Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Florida State |
ACC |
No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Georgia Tech |
ACC |
No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Maryland |
ACC |
Rumored candidate for Big Ten should they expand beyond 12
Possible: No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: Big Ten could court them in a 16 team scenario; if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
NC State |
ACC |
Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.
|
North Carolina |
ACC |
Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Virginia |
ACC |
Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.
|
Wake Forest |
ACC |
Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Virginia Tech |
ACC |
Joined the ACC for the 2004 football season.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Miami |
ACC |
Joined the ACC for the 2004 football season.
Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate. |
Boston College |
ACC |
Joined the ACC for the 2005 football season.
Long shot: mentioned as a long shot candidate for the Big Ten if they expanded to 16. |
|
Big East Expansion & Realignment
|
Pittsburgh |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.
Could also be a target for Big Ten expansion
Possible: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.
Long shot: if left out of the Big Ten, the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up". |
Rutgers |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.
Could also be a target for Big Ten expansion
Possible: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.
Long shot: if left out of the Big Ten, the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up". |
Syracuse |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.
Could also be a target for Big Ten expansion
Possible: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.
Long shot: if left out of the Big Ten, the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up". |
Connecticut |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East. If the ACC ever expanded to 14, or the Big Ten, UConn could be an option.
Possible: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.
Long shot: if left out of the Big Ten, the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up". |
West Virginia |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.If any SEC team left, would be a target their as well.
Long shot: the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up".
Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target. |
Cincinnati |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.
Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target. |
Louisville |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East. If any SEC team left, could be a target their as well.
Long shot: the ACC might consider the school if it expands to "keep up".
Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target. |
South Florida |
Big East |
Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East. If any SEC team left, could be a target their as well. |
DePaul |
Big East
(BB) |
In time, the Big East could split into 2 conferences, whereby the non-football schools could add 2-4 members such as Xavier, Dayton, Richmond, Charlotte, St. Louis, etc |
Marquette |
Big East
(BB) |
See DePaul |
Georgetown |
Big East
(BB) |
See DePaul |
Providence |
Big East
(BB) |
See DePaul |
Seton Hall |
Big East
(BB) |
See DePaul |
St. Johns |
Big East
(BB) |
See DePaul |
Villanova |
Big East
(BB) |
Has a strong FCS football program but is not planning on upgrading to FBS. Will remain in the Big East with the rest of the basketball schools; See DePaul
Participates in the CAA for football. Could seek membership in the Patriot league for football.
Long shot: upgrades football to FBS and joins with Big East teams if there were a split. |
|
Big Ten Expansion & Realignment
|
Illinois |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Indiana |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Iowa |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Michigan |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Michigan State |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Minnesota |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Nebraska |
Big XII |
News: 6/11/10:
Nebraska has accepted an invitation to become the 12th member of the Big Ten, leaving the Big 12.
-------------------------------------------------------------
News: 6/9/10:
Rumored to have accepted Big Ten invite
Considered a necessary component for the Big 12 to remain intact. |
Northwestern |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Ohio State |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Penn State |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Purdue |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
Wisconsin |
Big Ten |
Very stable. |
|
Big 12 Expansion & Realignment
|
Baylor |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future.
News: 6/12/10:
Baylor reportedly not in the mix for the MWC if Big 12 folds. MWC member TCU would block them. Kansas, KSU and Missouri still options.
News: 6/9/10/;
Reportedly NOT one of the six Big 12 schools to potentially defect to the Pac-10.
Options IF the Big 12 folded:
Big East: 4-5 remaining Big 12 schools join the Big East
MWC: joins the MWC as the 10th - 14th school
CUSA: could be part of CUSA
Old News: The school has made strong strides in recent years to find stability after a basketball scandal.
Old News: In one of the most stable conferences, but has had some economic troubles, as well a complete revamp to the athletic office and basketball program. One of the top academic institution of the Big 12 and serves a role similar to Vanderbilt in the SEC: scholars, not athletes. |
Iowa State |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10/;
Reportedly NOT one of the six Big 12 schools to potentially defect to the Pac-10.
Options IF the Big 12 folded:
Big East: 4-5 remaining Big 12 schools join the Big East
MWC: joins the MWC as the 10th - 14th school
CUSA: could be part of CUSA |
Kansas |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10/;
Reportedly NOT one of the six Big 12 schools to potentially defect to the Pac-10.
Options IF the Big 12 folded:
Big East: 4-5 remaining Big 12 schools join the Big East
MWC: joins the MWC as the 10th - 14th school
CUSA: could be part of CUSA |
Kansas State |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10/;
Reportedly NOT one of the six Big 12 schools to potentially defect to the Pac-10.
Options IF the Big 12 folded:
Big East: 4-5 remaining Big 12 schools join the Big East
MWC: joins the MWC as the 10th - 14th school
CUSA: could be part of CUSA |
Missouri |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10:
Rumored Nebraska invite by Big Ten could put Missouri in a tough spot as they hope for a 13th team to be invited to the Big Ten.
Stable and content but considered a top candidate for invitation into the Big Ten should Notre Dame turn it down again. Missouri would give the Midwest league the St. Louis market as well as the rest of Missouri. Could also be a target for Big Ten expansion
Possible: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.
News: 6/06/03: To leave, Missouri would be required to pay a 2 million exit fee and would need to give 2 years notice. |
Oklahoma |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10:
Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10. |
Oklahoma St. |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10:
Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10. |
Texas |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10:
Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10.
Stable and content. Was flirted with by the Pac 10 in the 90s, but was talked out of that move by the admins of fellow Big 12 school Texas Tech. Doubtful they would listen to the PAC 10 again. Rumors have flurried that the SEC has considered expanding to 14 and that Texas and Texas A&M would be the most likely candidates. Texas would provide a new market for the conference, but it would mean dividing the SEC pot with 2 more teams. Texas has also been rumored to have considered forming a new conference with Oklahoma and select Big 12 schools along with other potential schools like Arkansas.
Texas is rumored to be a potential target by the Big Ten...a long shot for sure. They are also on the Pac-10 wish list and perhaps even the SEC if they expanded. |
Texas A&M |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News 6/11/10:
Texas A&M has an invitation to the Pac-10. Is also considering option to join the SEC, if invited. Also remains interested in staying in the Big 12 if the other 4 schools invited to the Pac-10 remain. |
Texas Tech |
Big XII |
News: 6/13/10:
Big 12 is expected to remain at 10 members with no Pac-10 defections. More details to come regarding length of agreement, future exit penalties should a member leave in the future
News: 6/9/10:
Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10. |
|
Conference USA Expansion & Realignment
|
East Carolina |
CUSA |
Provides near top 25 caliber football but little for basketball and virtually no market or state following. Recent 2007 rumblings have a CUSA split into an eastern conference and a new Southwest Conference.
Long shot: joins the Big East football-only members following a suture split
Possible:
replaces a Big East team should one be part of Big Ten expansion |
Houston |
CUSA |
Still mentioned as a potential MWC candidate with TCU now in.
Long shot: joins with Big East football members
Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target. |
Memphis |
CUSA |
A good market with a good basketball program. Football program is on the ups.
Long shot: joins the Big East years down the road should the football schools split from the basketball schools
Possible: replaces a Big East team should one be part of Big Ten expansion . Depending on how the Big 12 is effected, Memphis could be on their radar.
Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target. |
Southern Miss |
CUSA |
Strong football program but small market and weak basketball program. |
Tulane |
CUSA |
Offers New Orleans market but is suffering from some severe financial issues. Admins discussed dropping football to FCS or eliminating it. Announced they are remaining in FBS.
Likely: remains in CUSA |
UAB |
CUSA |
Comfortable in CUSA. |
Marshall |
CUSA |
Comfortable in CUSA. |
Central Florida |
CUSA |
Likely the top candidate for the Big East should they expand.
Comfortable in CUSA, but hoping for Big East if there is a split.
Possible: replaces a Big East team should one be part of Big Ten expansion |
Rice |
CUSA |
Comfortable in CUSA; if a spot opened in the Big 12 and other options were exhausted, the Big 12 might consider Rice. |
SMU |
CUSA |
Comfortable in CUSA. Like Rice, could be a future Big 12 option. |
Tulsa |
CUSA |
Comfortable in CUSA. |
UTEP |
CUSA |
An unlikely MWC candidate, but still one nonetheless. The MWC formed to lessen the travel for its members in the oversized 16-team league. UTEP was left out of the mix. But they have had impressive football attendance numbers, despite little on-field success until 2004. The MWC could consider UTEP (who would be a strong rival for New Mexico and TCU) as a member. Ideally, the MWC could add UTEP, Fresno and Boise St, and avoid the travel problems associated with adding Hawaii.
5/01/04: UTEP has accepted an invitation to join CUSA for the 2005 season.
Long shot: Joins MWC
Longest shot: Brought in by the Big XII to replace Missouri, should they ever join the Big Ten. |
|
|
Independent Expansion & Realignment
|
BYU |
Ind (Football)
WCC (BB) |
NEWS: 9/1/10:
BYU has left the MWC to participate as an indpendent. Non-football sports will be housed in the WCC.
NEWS: 8/18/10
BYU was close to leaving the MWC to play football as an independent and joining the WAC for all other sports. With Fresno St. and Nevada leaving the WAC, BYU might now remain in the MWC or turn to the WCC for non-football sports.
Long shot: was considered a candidate for the Big 12 should they seek to replace 1-2 departing schools (only applicable if the Big 12 remained intact)
Possible: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12. Sunday issue could be a factor against.
Possible: If the Big 12 expanded or needed a replacement, BYU would be a top candidate as they were originally slotted for the spot taken by Baylor when the Big 12 was formed. |
Notre Dame |
Ind (Football)
Big East (BB) |
Notre Dame participates in the Big East for non-football sports. If there is a football-basketball split, Notre Dame would be desired by both factions. The Big Ten hopes that Notre Dame will eventually join.
6/9/10:
Notre Dame could still be an eventual Big Ten member, even if Nebraska were to take the 12th spot. Notre Dame would be more interested in the Big Ten if something happened to the Big East and there were a split. If this happened, Notre Dame would likely chose the Big Ten over a basketball-only conference with the other Big East members, or a new conference with the Big East football schools.
11/13/04:
Notre Dame had been rumored to have contacted the ACC regarding potential all-sports membership. Contact is also said to have been made to the Big Ten. The 11 team Big Ten has gone on record as saying that Notre Dame has an open invite to join at any time.
Probable: Remains as an independent in football and the Big East for all other sports.
Possible: Joins the Big Ten when they expand.
Long shot: Joins the ACC as it's 13th member. |
Army |
Ind./Patriot |
Like Navy, might be open to a big East football invite should they seek to expand. |
Navy |
Ind./Patriot |
Would consider Big East membership if invited; turned down CUSA twice.
|
|
MAC Expansion & Realignment
|
Akron |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Ball St. |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Bowling Green |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Buffalo |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. If there is continued growth of the athletic programs, the school could one day be a Big East candidate after decades of success. |
Central Michigan |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Eastern Michigan |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Kent St. |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Miami (OH) |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Northern Illinois |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Ohio |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Toledo |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Western Michigan |
MAC |
Not a viable candidate at this time. |
Temple |
MAC. (Football) |
Long shot: Could still get an eventual football-only invite by the Big East.
Long shot: Joins the football side of a split Big East conference
Longershot: if the ACC needed replacements and the Big East schools were mostly in the Big Ten, Temple might draw some interest if they were teamed with BC and another regional school (like UConn).
Long shot: is one of the schools on CUSA radar in their 18 team scenario.
|
|
Mountain West Expansion & Realignment
|
Air Force |
MWC |
Stable;
Long shot: was considered a candidate for the Big 12 should they seek to replace departing schools (only applicable if the Big 12 remained intact)
Long shot: Should the PAC10 expand, Air Force could be brought in along with BYU. |
Boise State |
MWC |
News: 6/11/10:
Boise St. has officially accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West, starting July 2011.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Becomes an even more attractive candidate each year with the success of their football program. Acceptable market, strong football program with decent facilities. Humanitarianism bowl helps their case.
6/9/20: did not receive an invitation from the MWC as the MWC opted to wait to see what happens to the Big 12. Boise St. could still get an eventual invite.
12/20/2008: Boise St. has been more public about their interest in the MWC
Likely: remains in WAC
Possible: If the MWC expands to 10-12, Boise State will be included. |
Colorado St |
MWC |
Stable
Long shot: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12, especially if Colorado were persuaded to join.
Long shot: candidate should the big 12 need replacements |
New Mexico |
MWC |
Stable
Long shot: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded beyond 12. Would provide the league with the Albuquerque market, settled next to Pac 10 schools Arizona and ASU.
Long shot: candidate should Big 12 need replacements
|
Fresno State |
WAC |
News: 8/19/10:
The school has accepted in invitation to join the Mountain West conference starting in 2012.
If and when the Mountain West expands, Fresno State could be on their list. The question will be how many teams. Word out of the MWC is that they are taking a careful approach to expansion, and arent looking to expand to 12 right away.
Fresno St. has dropped partial qualifiers in an attempt to improve their appeal to the MWC and PAC10.
Likely: remains in WAC
Possible: joins the MWC
Long shot: will additional pressure put on the Pac 10 presidents by the California state government, Fresno State, along with San Diego State join the PAC 12. |
Nevada |
WAC |
News: 8/19/10:
The school has accepted in invitation to join the Mountain West conference starting in 2012.
Should the MWC expand, Nevada could be an option for the #12th spot...there arent too many candidates other than Fresno, Hawaii, Boise St., UTEP. |
San Diego State |
MWC |
Stable
Long shot: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12. If the league voted to expand, and the California schools had pressure put on them by the state government, the league could add a 5th California team. Would also add the San Diego market. |
UNLV |
MWC |
Stable
Long shot: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12. Would provide the Las Vegas market.
Long shot: candidate should Big 12 need replacements
|
TCU |
MWC |
Newest MWC member would still be considered for the Big XII should they expand or need replacements.
1/31/04: TCU has accepted an invitation from the Mountain West.
1/22/04: Mountain West is expected to make it's final plans by Feb. 1st. TCU is expected to receive an invitation. Should the MWC expand by 2, Boise State is expected to receive an invitation.
Specs:
Offers the Dallas/Ft. Worth market. Could get interest from the MWC should they expand. Rumored to be at the top of the list for candidates by the MWC.
* If TCU were to get an invite from the MWC and accept, CUSA could consider LA Tech or UTEP as replacements..
The WAC might be forced to bring in Sunbelt schools as replacements should any schools leave for CUSA. |
Wyoming |
MWC |
The least likely MWC school to leave the conference. |
|
Pac 10 Expansion & Realignment
|
Arizona |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. Could be approached by the Big XII should they expand, but a long shot. |
Arizona State |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. Could be approached by the Big XII should they expand, but a long shot. |
California |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
Colorado |
PAC 10 |
News: 6/10/10:
Colorado has officially joined the Pac-10, leaving the Big 12
-------------------------------------------------------------
News: 6/9/10:
Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10.
Stable and content in the Big 12. Was approached by the PAC 10 during the 90s regarding expansion (along with Texas) but did not make the move. If approached again, perhaps they would listen. They would provide the PAC 10 access to the Denver market, which would fit nicely into their current domination of the LA, Phoenix, San Fran, Portland, Seattle markets. |
Oregon |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
Oregon St |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
Stanford |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
UCLA |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
USC |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
Utah |
MWC |
News: 6/15/10:
Utah Joins Pac-10
News 6/13/10:
Utah is expected to be invited as the 12th member of the Pac-10.
------------------------
Possible: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12. Would provide the Salt Lake City market
Long shot: if the Big 12 needed replacements and the Pac-10 weren't an option, Utah (and BYU) could be attractive candidates. |
Washington |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
Washington St |
PAC 10 |
Very stable. |
|
SEC Expansion & Realignment
|
Alabama |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Arkansas |
SEC |
Very stable but could consider Big 12 membership the price was right. It would take an annual payout greater than the SEC to happen. With the Big 12 uneven revenue distribution model, that makes it even more unlikley. |
Auburn |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Florida |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Georgia |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Kentucky |
SEC |
Very stable. |
LSU |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Mississippi |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Mississippi St. |
SEC |
Very stable. |
South Carolina |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Tennessee |
SEC |
Very stable. |
Vanderbilt |
SEC |
Very stable. |
|
Sunbelt Expansion & Realignment
|
Florida Atlantic |
Sunbelt |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by an eastern-based CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split their.
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
Arkansas St |
Sunbelt |
Was on the list of candidates to join the WAC as replacements for Rice, Tulsa, SMU, UTEP, but passed over. Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split their. |
La. Lafayette |
Sunbelt |
Was on the list of candidates to join the WAC as replacements for Rice, Tulsa, SMU, UTEP, but passed over. Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split their. |
Troy |
Sunbelt |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted if there were a CUSA split.
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements
May 25, 2003: Officially joined the Sunbelt for all-sports |
Middle Tennessee St. |
Sunbelt |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split.
Was on the list of candidates to join the WAC as replacements for Rice, Tulsa, SMU, UTEP, but passed over.
Possible: Has been mentioned as a candidate to join the MAC.
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
North Texas |
Sunbelt |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split.
On the list of candidates to join the WAC as replacements for Rice, Tulsa, SMU, and UTEP. Considered highly by CUSA before they eventually chose UTEP.
Probable: Remains in Sunbelt
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
La. Monroe |
Sunbelt
|
Little interest. Joined the Sunbelt for all sports in 2005-2006. |
| Florida International |
Sunbelt |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split.
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
Western Kentucky |
Sunbelt |
2007: Upgraded to FBS and Sunbelt for all sports.
Old News: 5/1/05: The Sunbelt school have not been mentioned as looking for other homes. As long as football is still even considering a FBS upgrade, they will remain in the Sunbelt. It would be to their best interest to consider a move to a stronger basketball conference such as the Missouri Valley. The MVC has been rising up the RPI charts of late and WKU could help that mission. Even schools in the cellar have hope: Dr. Tom Davis has taken over the Drake program, and former Hampton coach, Steve Merfeld heads the Evansville team. 5/1/04: WKU has been mentioned as a possible candidate for the MAC for the 2006 season. They would join for all sports including an upgrade to FBS football. Possible: joins MAC
Possible: joins CUSA
|
Arkansas - Little Rock |
Sunbelt (BB) |
Comfortable in the Sunbelt but does not sponsor football. Has explored other options such as the Summit. Would be a logical fit for the Southland to partner with UCA should the Southland seek a non-football playing member. |
New Orleans |
Sunbelt (BB) |
1/20/10: UNO announced they will leave the Sunbelt for D3
Overview:
Tough economic times. Might be forced to make athletic department budget cuts. They already sponsor less sports than mandated by the Sunbelt and the NCAA and could be forced to downgrade to D2. |
South Alabama |
Sunbelt (BB) |
On 12/5/07, USA announced that they have voted in favor of starting a, FBS football program to field potentially as soon as 2009 and join Sunbelt for football |
Denver |
Sunbelt (BB) |
The odd school. Has little fan interaction outside of hockey. Would ideally be in the WCC. Great West might seem like a geographic fit in name only is currently a home for independents throughout the country.
The WCC has spoken of expansion with Pacific, Denver and Seattle the primary targets, but hasn't made any expansion progression.
Long shot: joins the WCC
Long shot: joins the Summit
Long shot: joins the WAC
|
|
WAC Expansion & Realignment
|
Hawaii |
WAC |
Spent much time with the MWC schools but like Fresno, was left out. Distance away is an issue, but one that could be looked past.
Likely: remains in the WAC
Possible: if the MWC expands to 12 Hawaii could be included. Could jump ahead of Fresno state is the MWC expands
Long shot: gets an invite to the Pac 10. |
Louisiana Tech |
WAC |
Doesnt offer much of a market, but has decent programs and facilities. Considered highly by CUSA before they eventually chose UTEP.
Possible: remain in the WAC
Possible: Leaves the WAC for the Sunbelt, a better regional fit.
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
Utah State |
WAC |
Rejected an 8/18/10 invite from MWC thinking the conference would remain solid, only to see Fresno and Nevada leave the next day. |
New Mexico St. |
WAC |
Comfortable in the WAC but could be targeted by a new Southwest conference
Long shot: candidate for CUSA should they seek replacements |
Idaho |
WAC |
Comfortable in the WAC
June 4, 2004: Has accepted an invitation to join the WAC.
May 25, 2003: Officially joined the Sunbelt for all-sports. On the list of candidates to join the WAC as replacements for Rice, Tulsa, SMU, UTEP. |
San Jose State |
WAC |
Comfortable in the WAC |
| FCS Football and Non-football Division 1 Conferences |
|
Atlantic 10 Expansion & Realignment
|
Charlotte |
Atlantic 10 |
Would be an appealing option should the Big East split into 2 conferences. Has announced aspirations to start football "at the highest level". But will participate in football by 2013 at the FCS level. At FBS level, could try to reunite with former CUSA mates or even Sunbelt.
Likely: starts football and upgrades to FBS in the next few years as an independent.
Long shot: joins CUSA for all-sports
Long shot: joins Sunbelt for all-sports
Long shot: joins Big East for all-sports
|
St. Louis |
Atlantic 10 |
Would be an appealing option should the Big East split into 2 conferences. Could be looking at the MVC if they no longer feel the A10 to be ideal. |
Dayton |
Atlantic 10 |
Great fan support, facilities and market. Would be one of the top options for a basketball-only Big East.
Possible: joins with the Big East basketball schools should they split from the football schools in 2010. |
Duquesne |
Atlantic 10 |
Offers the Pittsburgh market, but little else.
Long shot: forced out of the Atlantic 10 to make room for more attractive schools, finds a home in the Horizon, MVC, MAAC, Patriot, America East. |
Fordham |
Atlantic 10 |
Failing basketball program has caused public sentiment that perhaps the A10 isn't the ideal fit.
Offers NY market, but little else.
Long shot: forced out of the Atlantic 10 to make room for more attractive schools, finds a home in the MAAC, Patriot, America East. |
George Washington |
Atlantic 10 |
Offers Washington D.C. market, but unlikely to move. Could get some interest by the CAA, if GW wished to more localize itself.
Likely: remains in A10
Long shot: joins the CAA |
LaSalle |
Atlantic 10 |
Offers Philadelphia market, but unlikely to move. Could be ousted from the A10 if the league wanted to make room for more attractive schools.
Long shot: ousted from A10, joins Horizon, MVC, MAAC, Patriot, America East. |
Richmond |
Atlantic 10 |
Richmond market; could get interest by the Big East non-football schools in years to come.
Likely: remains in A10 |
St. Bonaventure |
Atlantic 10 |
Its hard to look good after the recent program scandal. If ever ousted, could join MAAC, NEC or America East. |
St. Joseph's |
Atlantic 10 |
Successful Philadelphia program could join with the Big East basketball schools should they split from the football schools
if Villanova lets it happen, which the likely wouldn't. |
UMass |
Atlantic 10 |
The 1 time flagship A10 school might still have faint FBS football ambitions; UMass could replace the market loss of BC in the Big East footprint. Would also give a better balance to a new Big East if all the state schools (football schools) left.
Likely: remains in A10
Long Shot: Upgrades to FBS as an independent
Long shot: upgrades to FBS and joins the MAC
Long shot: joins with the Big East basketball schools should they split from the football schools. |
URI |
Atlantic 10 |
Another Providence market team (home of the Big East offices) but light-years from an upgrade.
|
Temple |
A10 /
MAC (Football) |
Possible: Could still get an eventual football-only invite by the Big East.
Possible: Joins with the current Big East football schools in a new conference
Long shot: gets interest from the ACC should they seek replacements. |
Xavier |
Atlantic 10 |
Would be the top option should the Big East split into 2 conferences. Has club football.
Likely: remains in the A10
Possible: Should the Big East split up, could be brought in with the non-basketball schools. |
|
America East Expansion & Realignment
|
Boston University |
America East |
An option for the A10 should any other teams leave. |
New Hampshire |
America East |
little interest from other conferences |
| UMBC |
America East |
Moved to the AE from the NEC in 2003. |
Albany |
America East |
little interest from other conferences other than for football by conferences such as the Big South. Could be targeted by an America East or A10 football sponsorship. |
Binghamton |
America East |
little interest from other conferences. |
Hartford |
America East |
little interest from other conferences. |
Maine |
America East |
little interest from other conferences. |
Stony Brook |
America East/Big South (football) |
little interest from other conferences.
Could be targeted by an America East or A10 football sponsorship. |
Vermont |
America East |
little interest from other conferences. |
|
Atlantic Sun Expansion & Realignment
|
| North Florida |
Atlantic Sun |
1/6/05: North florida will upgrade to D1 and join the Atlantic Sun in 2006.
|
| Kennesaw St. |
Atlantic Sun |
Could add non-scholorship football.
1/6/05: Kennesaw St. will upgrade to D1 and join the Atlantic Sun in 2006.
|
East Tenn. St. |
Atlantic Sun |
Missing their days in the SoCon. Could head to OVC should they bring back football. Has been mentioned as a potential Big South candidate in near future. |
| Belmont |
Atlantic Sun |
Has been mentioned as a potential OVC candidate. |
| Mercer |
Atlantic Sun |
little interest from other conferences. Could add non-scholorship football. |
| Jacksonville |
Atlantic Sun |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Lipscomb |
Atlantic Sun |
Has been mentioned as a potential OVC candidate. Could add non-scholorship football. |
| Stetson |
Atlantic Sun |
little interest from other conferences. |
Florida Gulf Coast University |
Atlantic Sun |
little interest from other conferences. |
USC-Upstate |
Atlantic Sun |
little interest from other conferences. |
|
Big Sky Expansion & Realignment
|
Portland St |
Big Sky |
Some old rumblings out of Portland were that the school was considering options other than the Big Sky such as the Big West or a FBS upgrade to the WAC. |
Sacramento St. |
Big Sky |
News: 4/28/06:
There have been rumblings that the Big Sky school might consider an upgrade to FBS and seek WAC membership.
News: 1/22/03:
The school has appointed a sports task force to research the feasibility of a new sports arena. Also to be considered is the future of their conference affiliations. Sacramento St. could opt to leave the Big Sky and join the Big West, which upon the departure of Idaho and Utah St., and the inclusion of UC-Davis, is poised to become an all-California league. Should this occur, Sacramento St. would need to make decisions regarding their football program. Options include teaming with the various western FCS independents who are forming a new FCS football-only conference, and they could always play as an independent The WAC remains a possibility should the school look to upgrade to FBS football.
Likely: Joins the Big West, independent for football until a new FCS league is formed and an invitation extended.
Possible: remains in Big Sky
Long shot: upgrades to FBS and joins the WAC |
| Montana |
Big Sky |
Has explored upgrading to FBS as recent as March 2010. Would be a logical fit for the WAC or MWC should they upgrade. |
| Montana St. |
Big Sky |
little interest from other conferences at this point. |
| Weber St. |
Big Sky |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Idaho St. |
Big Sky |
little interest from other conferences. |
| No. Arizona |
Big Sky |
little interest from other conferences. Has had to deal with a budget crisis in which the dropping of football was rumored. |
| Eastern Washington |
Big Sky |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Northern Colorado |
Big Sky |
Newest member of the Big Sky conference.
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference".
Upgrading to Div. 1 and fielding a FCS football team
News: 4/14//03: Is actively pursuing the formation of a new FCS football conference comprised of NDSU, South Dakota St., Northern Colorado, Southern Utah, St. Mary's, UC-Davis and Cal Poly. |
|
Big South Expansion & Realignment
|
| Coastal Carolina |
Big South |
Big South member has expressed interest in the Southern Conference and remains a logical fit. |
| Radford |
Big South |
Stable. Has expressed interest in joining the Atlantic Sun |
| Char. Southern |
Big South |
little interest from other conferences. |
High Point |
Big South |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Liberty |
Big South |
little interest from other conferences. |
| NC Asheville |
Big South |
little interest from other conferences. |
| VMI |
Big South |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Winthrop |
Big South |
NEWS: 7/1/2008:
Winthrop considers adding football
little interest from other conferences. |
| Gardner Webb |
Atlantic Sun |
Joined the Big South as full member in 2007. |
| Presbyterian College |
Division 2 |
Presbyterian College upgraded to FCS and participates in the Big South |
| Campbell University |
Atlantic Sun / Pioneer |
News:
5/13/09:
Campbell announced they will join the Big South by 2012.
4/7/06:
This is a football only move, but Campbell will add football for the 2008 season and will participate in the Pioneer League. |
|
Big West Expansion & Realignment
|
Cal - Davis |
Big West / Great West (football) |
Stable. A candidate for the Big Sky is they ever wanted another California school. If upgraded, WAC would be likely home.
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference". |
Cal - Poly |
Big West / Great West (football) |
Stable. A candidate for the Big Sky is they ever wanted another California school. If upgraded, WAC would be likely home.
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference".
Content in the Big West, especially as the conference restructures itself towards being an all-California league. (Utah State is out next season and replaced with UC-Davis). Cal-Poly is an independent in FCS football and might be a target by the Big Sky, which is rumored to be interested in expanding. |
| Cal St. Fullerton |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Cal St. Northridge |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Long Beach St. |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Pacific |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. But could be a WCC option should they seek another southern member. |
| UC Irvine |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
| UC Riverside |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
| UC Santa Barbara |
Big West |
little interest from other conferences. |
|
CAA Expansion & Realignment
|
Delaware |
CAA |
Stable but could upgrade to FBS in future |
Hofstra |
CAA |
Hofstra dropped football but remains a member of the CAA.
News: 5/9/09:
It was leaked that Hofstra was considering options outside of the CAA. This is considered to be code for "we want in the A10" (but the A10 has no room).
Would accept Atlantic 10 invite despite CAA league penalties. Could even consider a return to the America East if the situations were perfect. |
Old Dominion |
CAA |
Has announced plans to start a football program and will eventually compete in the CAA football conference.
The Norfolk, VA. market team is stable, but could draw some interest by the Atlantic 10 should replacement teams be needed or the conference expanded. |
UNCW |
CAA |
Stable but would be wise to listen to any offers that come in. The CAA has further alienated UNCW by adding 4 northern schools. They hoped for a southern travel partner such as C of Charleston, but instead got Georgia St. The SoCon might seen unattractive now but that could change. |
Northeastern |
CAA |
NU dropped football but remains a member of the CAA.
Would accept Atlantic 10 invite despite CAA league penalties. Could even consider a return to the America East if the situations were perfect.
News: 11/30/07:
NU is having internal discussions that include potentially dropping football. If that were to happen, a return to the America East might be something they school considers. |
Georgia St |
CAA |
The Atlanta school will be the 8th all-sports member of the CAA to sponsor football. Often mentioned as future FBS candidate once football program starts play.
Possible: joins the Sunbelt or CUSA once they add FBS football. |
Drexel |
CAA |
little interest from other conferences. |
George Mason |
CAA |
Stable |
JMU |
CAA |
Stable but could upgrade to FBS in future |
Towson |
CAA |
Stable |
VCU |
CAA |
Stable but always nervous after being left out of every previous conference shift. |
William & Mary |
CAA |
Stable |
| |
|
|
|
Horizon League Expansion & Realignment
|
Butler |
Horizon |
Mentioned as a replacement should any A10 schools leave in the future. Could be considered for a new Midwest private conference with fellow Horizon and MVC schools should the NCAA allow new automatic bids from new conferences. |
Detroit |
Horizon |
Mentioned as a replacement should any A10 schools leave in the future. Could be considered for a new Midwest private conference with fellow Horizon and MVC schools should the NCAA allow new automatic bids from new conferences. |
Cleveland St |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
Illinois (Chi.) |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
Loyola Chi |
Horizon |
Could be considered for a new Midwest private conference with fellow Horizon and MVC schools should the NCAA allow new automatic bids from new conferences. |
Wisc. Green Bay |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
Wisc. Milwaukee |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
Wright St |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Youngstown State |
Horizon |
little interest from other conferences. |
Valparaiso |
Horizon |
News: 5/17//06: Valpo joins the Horizon League from the Summit League. Expect the Summit League to add NDSU, SDSU, IPFW to bring their total to 10.We saw this one coming. Here was our original thoughts on Valpo:
"Would be a logical target by the Horizon. OVC, or MVC should they seek to expand." |
|
Great West Expansion & Realignment
|
Tx Pan American |
Great West |
NEWS: 7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
NEWS: 6/15/08:
There have been recent discussions about UTPA joining the Great West as it attempts to become an all-sports conference.
When searching for a home, look no father than the Summit League. |
| NJIT |
Great West |
NEWS:
5/13/09:
With Campbell leaving for the Big South, the Atlantic Sun might look to protect themselves by adding schools such as Longwood or NJIT.
7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
Seeking a home in the NEC. |
| North Dakota |
Great West |
Likely will get a Summit invite to join south Dakota once they finally resolve the school nickname issue.
NEWS: 7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
NEWS: 6/20/06:
UND has announced they will upgrade their athletics to Division 1 in two years. The school will hope for Summit League membership and Great West for football. If South Dakota were to follow, the two schools along with NDSU and SDSU could lead the way for a new conference.
Previous News:With the recent upgrades of SDSU and NDSU, North Dakota could find motivation to upgrade as well. Eyeballing the Summit League for potential membership. |
| Utah Valley |
Great West |
NEWS: 7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
Hoping for membership in the Summit League. |
| Houston Baptist |
Great West |
NEWS: 7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
Upgrading to Division 1. Will probably seek membership in the Southland, Mi-Con or other conferences but likely participate as an independent |
Chicago St |
Great West |
Left the Mid-Con for the 2007 basketball season with eyes set on the Horizon League. An invite never came, and were forced to join the Great West. An example of what not to do.
7/9/08: School might accept Great West invitation
|
|
Ivy League Expansion & Realignment
|
| Brown |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Columbia |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Cornell |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Dartmouth |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Harvard |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Pennsylvania |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Princeton |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
| Yale |
Ivy |
Classic league won't be expanding any time soon. |
|
MAAC Expansion & Realignment
|
Siena |
MAAC |
The Albany school was being considered by the A10 as a replacement for St. Bonaventure. They will be evaluated again if any A10 schools leave. |
Fairfield |
MAAC |
CT school could be considered by the America East should they expand |
Canisius
|
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Iona |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Loyola MD |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Manhattan |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Marist |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Niagara |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| Rider |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
| St. Peter's |
MAAC |
little interest from other conferences. |
|
MEAC Expansion & Realignment
|
| Florida A&M |
MEAC |
Was prepared to upgrade to FBS (and join the Sunbelt) but tabled the plan at the last second to remain in FCS. Now, there is some push for Florida A&M to join the SWAC. |
Hampton |
MEAC |
The Norfolk, VA MEAC school has applied to both the A10 and CAA in an attempt to maintain a FCS football home while benefiting its basketball program. |
Bethune Cookman
|
MEAC |
No interest |
| Coppin St |
MEAC |
No interest. |
| Delaware St. |
MEAC |
Has expressed interest in joining the Northeast Conference for all sports, with football joining the Big South. Still considering other upgrade options. |
| Howard |
MEAC |
No interest |
| MD Eastern Shore |
MEAC |
No interest |
| Morgan State |
MEAC |
No interest |
| N. Carolina A&T |
MEAC |
No interest |
| Norfolk State |
MEAC |
No interest |
| South Carolina St |
MEAC |
No interest. |
| Savannah St. |
MEAC |
NEWS 3/10/10: Savannah St. accepts provisional membership in the MEAC
FCS independent HBCU could look to join the MEAC or Big South. |
| NC Central St. |
Division 2 |
Will upgrade to Division 1 and join the MEAC |
| Winston-Salem St. |
Independent |
NEWS: WSSU will return to DII
7/8/04: announced they will upgrade to Division I and FCS football. Might look to join the Big South, MEAC or Southern Conference. |
|
Missouri Valley Expansion & Realignment
|
Creighton |
MVC |
The Omaha based catholic school had been mentioned as a candidate for a proposed new Midwest based basketball conference with such schools as DePaul, Marquette, Dayton, Xavier, St. Louis, Detroit and Butler. Now that Depaul and Marquette are poised to join the Big East, it would appear that there are few options for Creighton.
Likely: remains in MVC |
Southern Illinois |
MVC |
Despite consecutive NCAA appearances, the Salukis wont be moving anywhere for the time being. |
Bradley |
MVC |
No interest. |
Drake |
MVC |
No interest. |
Evansville |
MVC |
Could add non-scholorship football. |
Illinois State |
MVC |
No interest. |
Indiana State |
MVC |
No interest. |
Northern Iowa |
MVC |
No interest. |
Missouri St. |
MVC |
Was approached by Sunbelt but had no interest at the time in upgrading to FBS football. |
Wichita State |
MVC |
No interest. |
|
Northeast Conference Expansion & Realignment
|
| Bryant University |
Division 2 |
Upgraded it's athletics to Division 1 and joined the NEC. |
Central Conn. |
NEC |
Could be brought into the America East should they expand. |
LIU Brooklyn |
NEC |
Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand. |
Mt. St. Marys |
NEC |
Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand. |
Quinnipiac |
NEC |
Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand. |
Sacred Heart |
NEC |
Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand. |
| Fairleigh Dickinson |
NEC |
No interest. |
| Monmouth (N.J.) |
NEC |
No interest. |
| Robert Morris |
NEC |
No interest. |
| St. Francis (NY) |
NEC |
No interest. |
| St. Francis (PA) |
NEC |
No interest. |
| Wagner |
NEC |
No interest. |
|
Ohio Valley Expansion & Realignment
|
| Tennessee St. |
OVC |
HBCU school could consider joining the SWAC. |
Austin Peay
|
OVC |
No interest. |
| Eastern Illinois |
OVC |
No interest. |
| Eastern Kentucky |
OVC |
No interest. |
| Jacksonville St |
OVC |
Considering an upgrade to FBS football |
| Morehead State |
OVC |
No interest. |
| Murray State |
OVC |
No interest. |
| SE Missouri State |
OVC |
No interest. |
| Tenn. Martin |
OVC |
No interest. |
| Tennessee Tech |
OVC |
No interest. |
| So. Illinois - Edwardsville |
Division 2 |
6/9/2008:
OVC is set to expand by adding SIUE once they upgrade to D1
Upgrading to Division 1. OVC and Summit League are likely destinations. |
|
Patriot League Expansion & Realignment
|
Holy Cross |
Patriot |
Considered by many in the A10 if the expulsion of St. Bonaventure was an option; Could replace Xavier, Dayton or anyone else who leaves. Still an option for the Big East should the football schools leave. |
| American |
Patriot |
Staying put in the Patriot. |
| Bucknell |
Patriot |
Staying put in the Patriot. |
| Colgate |
Patriot |
Staying put in the Patriot. |
| Lafayette |
Patriot |
Staying put in the Patriot. |
| Lehigh |
Patriot |
Staying put in the Patriot. |
| Army |
|
(see FBS listing above in "Independents") |
| Navy |
|
(see FBS listing above in "Independents") |
|
Southern conference Expansion & Realignment
|
Georgia Southern |
SoCon |
As the Southern Conference adds more private schools, App state and GSU cant help but to look, The CAA would be their ideal destination since that league is looking for FCS football playing members.
NEWS: 11/28/07: GSU Considers FBS Upgrade
Likely: remains in SoCon
Possible: joins the CAA
Possible: upgrades to FBS and joins CUSA, MAC or Sunbelt |
UT-Chattanooga |
SoCon |
NEWS: 9/10/2006:
UTC has announced that they will remain in the SoCon
NEWS: 6/20/2006:
You heard it here first ...about 2 years ago, that UTC was considering the OVC. Well, they are OFFICIALLY exploring that option now as the OVC is considering Chattanooga for membership.
Previous News: Has hinted that they might consider the OVC |
Western Carolina |
SoCon |
Situation similar to GSU an App State |
Appalachian St. |
SoCon |
As the Southern Conference adds more private schools, App state and GSU cant help but to look, The CAA would be their ideal destination since that league is looking for FCS football playing members.
Likely: remains in SoCon
Possible: joins the CAA
Possible: upgrades to FBS and joins CUSA, MAC or Sunbelt |
C of Charleston |
SoCon |
Released a statement that they are content in the Southern Conference and not interested in the CAA when rumors circulated that they could be invited. |
NC Greensboro |
SoCon |
No interest. |
| Davidson |
SoCon |
No interest. |
Elon University
|
SoCon |
No interest. Joined in 2004 from Big South. |
| The Citadel |
SoCon |
No interest. |
| Furman |
SoCon |
No interest. |
| Samford |
SoCon |
Joined the OVC in 2003 from independent status. Now in the SoCon |
| Wofford |
SoCon |
No interest. |
|
Southland Expansion & Realignment
|
| Texas State |
Southland |
News: 11/1/07:
Internal committee has voted in favor of an FBS (formerly I-A) upgrade. Changed school name from Southwest Texas St. in recent years in preparation of a potential upgrade.
Possible: Joins the Sunbelt
Long shot: Joins CUSA
Long shot: Joins WAC
|
| Lamar |
Southland |
FCS football school has aspirations to upgrade to FBS.
Possible: Joins Sunbelt
Long shot: Joins WAC |
| Texas-Arlington |
Southland |
Has studied reviving football and determined it would cost 1.5 million per year. |
| Texas-San Antonio |
Southland |
Will sponsor football and hopes to be at the FBS level.
Possible: Joins Sunbelt
Possible: Joins CUSA
Long shot: Joins WAC |
| Stephen F. Austin |
Southland |
No interest. |
| Sam Houston St. |
Southland |
News: 11/27/07:
Internal committee is in favor of a FBS (formerly I-A) upgrade.
Possible: Joins the Sunbelt
Long shot: Joins WAC |
| Northwestern St |
Southland |
No interest. |
| Nicholls State |
Southland |
No interest. |
McNeese St. |
Southland |
Has a top quality FCS program and could upgrade to FBS if the school wanted to. Has not expressed any real interest thus far. |
| SE Louisiana |
Southland/ |
Brought back football last year and joined the Southland in 2005 |
| Texas A&M - CC |
Division 2 |
Joined the Southland in '06. |
| Central Arkansas |
Division 2 |
Upgraded to FCS football and Div. 1 and joined the Southland in '06. |
|
SWAC Expansion & Realignment
|
| Alabama A&M |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Alabama State |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Alcorn State |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Ark Pine Bluff |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Grambling |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Jackson State |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Miss. Valley St. |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Prairie View |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Southern |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
| Texas Southern |
Southwestern |
Stable conference with little movement. |
|
Summit League Expansion & Realignment
|
| South Dakota |
Summit |
News: 4/15/09:
USD has accepted an invitation from the Summit League
News: 1/7/09:
The Summit is visiting the USD campus this month to research for a potential invitation. UND would be on the list as well, but until their name change issue is resolved, the league will hold off.
NEWS: 7/9/08:
The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports.
South Dakota will upgrade to D1 along with North Dakota. If the NCAA expands the tournament and allows more autobids, it wouldn't be shocking to see the 4 Dakota schools team up with another 4-6 schools to form something new. |
Southern Utah |
Summit |
The school was left out of Big Sky plans but will remain on their radar.
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference".
News: 4/14//03: Is actively pursuing the formation of a new FCS football conference comprised of NDSU, South Dakota St., Northern Colorado, Southern Utah, St. Mary's, UC-Davis and Cal Poly.
Long shot: If the Big Sky expands to 10 which has been rumored, they could invite Southern Utah and Northern Colorado who would be better travel partners for Northern Arizona and Weber State. |
UMKC |
Summit |
The Kansas City market could be enough to open the eyes of a few conferences such as MVC and the OVC |
Indiana Purdue |
Summit |
No interest |
Oakland |
Summit |
No interest |
Oral Roberts |
Summit |
No interest |
Western Illinois |
Summit |
No interest now but could be an OVC target. |
North Dakota St. |
Summit |
News: 9/1/06:
The former Independent has been invited and accepted an invitation to join the Summit League. News: 5/15/06: the school is currently being considered for Big Sky membership. Also hoping to gain entrance into the Summit League NEWS: 5/10/06:
The school has been asked by the Summit League to submit an official profile. New Summit League membership could include NDSU, SDSU, and IPFW. NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference". Prepared to upgrade to Div. 1. Seeking a home in the Big Sky but looks like they'll be turned away. Might seek refuge in the Summit League.
News: 4/14//03: Is actively pursuing the formation of a new FCS football conference comprised of NDSU, South Dakota St., Northern Colorado, Southern Utah, St. Mary's, UC-Davis and Cal Poly. |
South Dakota St. |
Summit |
News: 9/1/06:
The former Independent has been invited and accepted an invitation to join the Summit League.
5/15/06: the school is currently being considered for Big Sky membership. Also hoping to gain entrance into the Summit League
NEWS: 5/10/06:
The school has been asked by the Summit League to submit an official profile. New Summit League membership could include NDSU, SDSU, and IPFW.
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Will join a new FCS football only conference slated to start for the 2006 season. The western-based conference will be managed by the Summit league offices and will include Division 2 upgrades UC-Davis, Northern Colorado, NDSU, SDSU as well as FCS independents Cal-Poly, Southern Utah and St. Mary's. All that remain before finalization are the necessary votes from the individual school presidents, although that will likely be a formality. The front-runner for the league name seems to be "Great West Conference".
Identical situation to North Dakota St.
News: 4/14//03: Is actively pursuing the formation of a new FCS football conference comprised of NDSU, South Dakota St., Northern Colorado, Southern Utah, St. Mary's, UC-Davis and Cal Poly. |
| IPFW |
Summit |
News: 9/1/06:
The former Independent has been invited and accepted an invitation to join the Summit League.
NEWS: 5/10/06:
The school has been asked by the Summit League to submit an official profile. New Summit League membership could include NDSU, SDSU, and IPFW. |
|
WCC Expansion & Realignment
|
| BYU |
WCC |
Newest member joined on 9/1/2010. |
| Gonzaga |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. |
| Loyola Marymont |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. |
| Pepperdine |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools, but could seek Big West membership. |
| Portland |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. |
| San Diego |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. |
| San Francisco |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. |
| Santa Clara |
WCC |
Stable conference of private schools. Little mobility. Has a football movement. |
| St. Mary's - CA |
WCC |
NEWS: 1/15/04:
Was slated to join the Great West Football Conference but has since decided to drop it's football program. |
|
|
|
|
Independent Expansion & Realignment
|
| |
|
|
| Cal St Bakersfield |
Division 2 |
7/9/08: School has turned down an invitation to Great West to focus on Big West membership.
Cal St. Bakersfield will upgrade to Division 1 officially in 2010 with expectations of joining the Big West. They will upgrade their schedule in 2007 to include all Division 1 opponents. |
| Seattle University |
Division 2 |
7/9/08: School could accept an invitation to Great West while hoping for future WCC membership.
Possible: trying to join the WCC or WAC. |
| Longwood |
Independent |
5/13/09:
With Campbell leaving for the Big South, the Atlantic Sun might look to protect themselves by adding schools such as Longwood or NJIT.
5/2006: Could target the Atlantic Sun now that they have lost Garner-Webb to the Big South (5/2006) |
|
Division 2 & NAIA Upgrades Expansion
|
| Bellarmine |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| Lincoln Memorial |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| West Florida |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| Tarleton St. |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| Francis Marion |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| W. Washington |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| West Texas A&M |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| So. Indiana |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| UCSD |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| Valdosta St. |
Division 2 |
considering upgrade |
| UM - St. Louis |
Division 2 |
Almost ready to upgrade to D1 and scheduling tougher opponents. |
| North Alabama |
Division 2 |
Could upgrade to Division 1, FCS and look to the Big South, OVC or even Southland. |
| U Incarnate Word |
Division 2 |
The southern school could upgrade to D-1 in the future |
| Delta St. |
Division 2 |
The southern school could upgrade to FCS in the future and would look conferences such as the Southland. |
| Ohio Central St. |
Division 2 |
Could upgrade to FCS and seek membership in the OVC |
| UA-Huntsville |
Division 2 |
Could upgrade to Division 1 |
| West Georgia |
Division 2 |
Considering upgrade to Division 1 and likely head to the Atlantic Sun. |
| Central Oklahoma |
Division 2 |
Considering upgrade to Division 1. |
| Indiana University - PA |
Division 2 |
While no timetable has been set, IUP is preparing for a jump to Division 1 and FCS football. |
No. Kentucky |
Division 2 |
Considering upgrade to Division 1 but reported that they would shelf that plan due to economics. |
| Oklahoma City University |
NAIA |
Considering an upgrade to Division 1. Will probably seek membership in the Southland, Summit or other conferences but likely participate as an independent |
| Kentucky St. |
Division 2 |
Could upgrade to FCS and seek membership in the OVC |
| CSU-Pueblo |
Division 2 |
Looking to add football and could consider upgrade |
| Grand Valley St |
Division 2 |
an upgrade candidate |
| Nebraska - Omaha |
Division 2 |
an upgrade candidate |
| Lemoyne |
Division 2 |
Update: 2/19/10: committee recommends remaining in D2
Looking to upgrade to DI. America East could be their new home. |
| Grand Canyon |
NAIA |
considering upgrade and adding football |
| Harding |
Division 2 |
Could upgrade to Division I |
FCS Football-Only Conferences: Expansion & Realignment
FBS This section is for FCS football conferences,. Some like the A10/CAA, MAAC, etc, might be sponsored by conferences listed above, but the membership is comprised of teams from various different conferences. Others like the Pioneer and Gateway do not sponsor any sports other than football. |
| School |
Primary Conference |
|
|
BIG SOUTH Expansion & Realignment
|
| Charleston Southern |
Big South |
With the addition of Stony Brook, the Big south will have 7 football members and hoping for any automatic bid by 2010.
Stony Brook is always an option for the CAA or a new northeast based conference. |
| Coastal Carolina |
Big South |
| Gardner-Webb |
Big South |
| Liberty |
Big South |
| VMI |
Big South |
| Presbyterian College |
Big South |
| Stony Brook |
America East |
|
CAA FOOTBALL Expansion & Realignment
|
| Delaware |
CAA |
The CAA will add Georgia St. and ODU join to form a 12 team league.
There had been talk of a potential split into 2 conferences, but with the recent dropping of football by Hofstra and Northeastern, it seems unlikely. |
| James Madison |
CAA |
| Towson |
CAA |
| William & Mary |
CAA |
| Villanova |
Big East |
| New Hampshire |
America East |
| Maine |
America East |
| Rhode Island |
A10 |
| Richmond |
A10 |
| UMass |
A10 |
| * ODU |
CAA |
| * Georgia St |
CAA |
|
Missouri Valley Expansion & Realignment
|
| Illinois St. |
MVC |
The MVFC is a seemingly stable football conference.
NEWS: 11/18/07:
The Gateway is discussing a name change to Missouri Valley Conference. |
| Indiana St. |
MVC |
| Missouri St. |
MVC |
| Northern Iowa |
MVC |
| Southern Illinois |
MVC |
| Western Illinois |
Summit League |
| Youngstown St. |
Horizon |
| North Dakota St. |
Summit League |
| South Dakota St. |
Summit League |
|
Great West Expansion & Realignment
|
| Cal Poly |
Big West |
The Great West started with a bang, a collection of 7 FCS independents looking to unite in the chase for an automatic birth. Within minutes, St. Mary's drops football leaving the league at 6 members. Then Northern Colorado left for the Big Sky. Now the Dakota schools have left for the Gateway. One option floated around in 2005 was a Big South / Great West football partnership, where they would combine for football and an automatic playoff berth. But now with the Big South at 6 teams, that is not an option. |
| Southern Utah |
Summit League |
| UC Davis |
Big West |
| North Dakota |
Great West |
| South Dakota |
Great West |
|
FCS Football independents Realignment
|
| Savannah St. |
Ind. |
Currently on the MEAC radar.
The Big South could extend a football-only or full membership to the school. |
|
Northeast Expansion & Realignment
|
| Central Connecticut St. |
NEC |
The NEC football conference became even more stable with the addition of Duquesne. It will be interesting to see what happens to the MAAC, left with only 4 schools. You have to wonder if the MAAC will simply ask the NEC to admit the final 4 schools, expanding to 12 teams. |
| Monmouth |
NEC |
| Robert Morris |
NEC |
| Sacred Heart |
NEC |
| St. Francis (PA) |
NEC |
| Wagner |
NEC |
| Albany |
America East |
| Duquesne |
Atlantic 10 |
|
Patriot League Expansion & Realignment
|
Holy Cross |
Patriot |
Interesting times in the Patriot League. First Fordham tried to push the league to have scholarship football and the league passed. So Fordham announced they will be seeking a new home. The CAA was a likely option when NU dropped football in November. But when Hofstra followed in December 2009, it made less sense. That said, Fordham could join the CAA with Stony Brook if they expand to 14 teams. Fordham could also be a target for a new northeast based league with Umass, Maine, UNH and URI.
For the Patriot, they can always turn to an NEC football member for expansion, but it might require a full invite. |
| Bucknell |
Patriot |
| Colgate |
Patriot |
| Lafayette |
Patriot |
| Lehigh |
Patriot |
| Georgetown |
Big East |
| Fordham |
A10 |
|
Pioneer League Expansion & Realignment
|
| Butler |
Horizon |
As a collection of non-scholarship football programs, the only potential movements would be schools leaving for the MAAC or Sunbelt, unless some upgraded.
Dayton could be an option for the Patriot League for football.
Marist will participate as an independent in 2008 and join the Pioneer in 2009. |
| Davidson |
SoCon |
| Dayton |
A10 |
| Drake |
MVC |
| Jacksonville |
Atlantic Sun |
| Morehead St. |
OVC |
| San Diego |
WCC |
| Valparaiso |
Summit League |
| Campbell |
Atlantic Sun |
| Marist |
MAAC |
|
MAAC Conference - Football
|
The MAAC used to serve as an northeastern home for 4 football programs without full scholarships. The MAAC did not qualify for the FCS playoffs.
NEWS: 11/20/08:
Iona has dropped football
N EWS: 11/18/07:
LaSalle has announced they will officially drop football. |