Conference Realignment News, NCAA School Message Board Directory & Conference Realignment Forum Community

Conference Realignment

Updated on May 17, 2012 by Matt Peloquin

conference realignment sm Conference Realignment

Who is on the move? Who is even on the radar? Keep up with all the conference realignment developments with the Conference Realignment Grid.

Questions, Comments, Updates? Feel free to include them in the comments section below. To discuss this topic and more, visit the Conference Realignment Forums .

orange Conference Realignment Schools most likely to trigger any potential moves; Or schools who are heavily rumored to move. tan Conference Realignment Schools on the fringe = schools who could be invited to other conferences
grey Conference Realignment Schools who have recently changed conferences green Conference Realignment Future Domino players? Schools from power conferences who could trigger major moves

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FBS Football Conferences
Atlantic%20Coast%20Conference Conference Realignment

ACC Expansion & Realignment:

Status as of 12/5/11:

The ACC remains solid at 14. But there have been hints that expansion to 16 could still be an option. Notre Dame and UConn remain the top options. Should Notre Dame make clear they would never join the ACC, then Uconn and Rutgers could be brought in at some point.

As of 10/5/11, The ACC is in waiting mode. The future of the Big East (should they lose schools to the Big 12, or TCU to MWC) will dictate the future of Notre Dame. With today’s announcement that Notre Dame will join Hockey East, it does add some speculation that if the Big East were to fall and Notre Dame were to join an all-sports conference, that the ACC could be the pick over the Big Ten. It is believed that if the ACC can get Notre Dame, they would bring in UConn for the #16 school, putting the final blow to the Big East with the ACC fully taking over the northeast region.

As of 9/18/11, the ACC officially brought in Pitt and Syracuse as a member of the 14 school conference. ACC could still expand to 16 with additional Big East schools such as Rutgers and UConn. Texas had been trying to work a deal with the ACC but the ACC has held firm on equal revenue sharing, most lilely removing Texas from the ACC scenario.

In early September, the ACC had appeared to be at risk of losing schools such as Florida St. and Virginia Tech to the SEC. But to stablize even prior to expansion, they opted for unity by increasing the exit fee for a school to $20 million. The result? Solidarity and leverge in bringing in new schools.

History: Appeared stable until the recent Big 12 realignment and SEC expansion developments. If the ACC were to lose schools to the SEC, the likely replacement would come from the Big East from the pool of Syracuse, UConn, Rutgers, Pittsburgh, WVU, Louisville.

Syracuse University Conference Realignment

Syracuse

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 9/18/11:

Has officially been brought in to join the ACC as a member of the 14 school conference. ACC could still expand to 16 with additional Big East schools such as Rutgers and UConn.

__________________

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”.

University of Pittsburgh Conference Realignment

Pittsburgh

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 9/18/11:

Has officially been brought in to join the ACC as a member of the 14 school conference. ACC could still expand to 16 with additional Big East schools such as Rutgers and UConn.

____________________

News: 9/8/11:
Is considered to be a candidate at some level under some Big 12 scenarios, likely involving other Big East schools (1-4 total).

News: 8/31/11:

Louisville and Pitt are rumored to be candidates for the Big 12 following the departure of Texas A&M. WVU has also been mentioned.

Prospects:

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”.

Boston College Conference Realignment

Boston College

Joined the ACC for the 2005 football season and is the northern most member.

Many in the Big East would love to see BC return, but in the economic climate of college sports, that move would be unlikely.

Long shot: mentioned as a long shot candidate for the Big Ten if they expanded to 16.

Clemson University Conference Realignment

Clemson

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNo intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.Has been mentioned as a possible candidate for the SEC should they expand to 14.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

Long shot: Has been rumored to be on the Big 12 radar

Duke University Conference Realignment

Duke

Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

Florida State University Conference Realignment
Florida State
green grid Conference RealignmentNo intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC, but has been a popular rumored candidate for the SEC should they expand to 14.News: 8/12/11:Florida St. rumored to be potential candidate for SEC #14 spot  

Possible: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

Long shot: Has been rumored to be on the Big 12 radar

Georgia Institute of Technology Conference Realignment
Georgia Tech
No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC. Like Clemson, Florida St. and Virginia Tech, has been rumored to be a potential SEC target for expansion to 14.Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

University of Maryland Conference Realignment

Maryland

yellow grid Conference RealignmentRumored candidate for Big Ten should they expand beyond 12

Probable: 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.

North Carolina State Univer Conference Realignment

NC State

Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

University of North Carolin Conference Realignment

North Carolina

Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.

University of Virginia Conference Realignment

Virginia

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 University Conference Realignment

Wake Forest

Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.

Virginia Polytechnic Instit Conference Realignment

Virginia Tech

News: 8/30/11:

Has been rumored to be the top candidate for the SEC potential #14 spot but has gone on the record multiple times expressing their disinterest in leaving the ACC.

Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.

History: Joined the ACC for the 2004 football season.

University of Miami FL Conference Realignment

Miami

Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.Joined the ACC for the 2004 football season.

Back to the top

Big East Conference Conference Realignment

Big East Expansion & Realignment:

Status as of 3/07/12:

The Big East has brought in Temple as an all-sports member on 3/7/12. Temple will join for football for the 2012 season with a $6 million exit fee for the MAC and leave the A10 for non-football sports in 2013 ($1 million exit fee).

As of 1/23/12, The Big East, looking to replentish their basketball product due to the losses of Syracuse, Pittsburgh and WVU, has added Memphis for all-sports, joining in the 2013 season.

As of 1/23/12, the Big East added Navy for the 2015 season. The conference hopes this will help convince Air Force to join as the 12th member to premit a conference championship game, while adding to the conferences new western membership front.

As of 12/07/11, The Big East has finally pulled the trigger on expansion, bringing in UCF, Houston and SMU for all-sports and Boise St. and San Diego St. for football only. Air Force has already passed and Navy remain options for football-only membership as well. Should they pass, then schools like Temple or even Memphis will be considered for all-sports, ECU for football-only. It also appears that with the additions of the 2 western schools, other schools in the region like UNLV could be included.

As of 11/21/11, The Big East expansion plan has moved at a snails pace. For some reason, while waiting to finalize everything with schools liek Air Force, Navy, BYU and Boise St., the Big East has delayed an announcement of adding UCF, SMU and Houston. Instead of a staggered announcement plan to maintain "buzz" on the Big East, it appears the Big East is instead waiting until all schools are lined up. The delay is causing some turmoil at UCF, Houston and SMU, with Houston missing an opportunity to use their ESPN Gameday hosting on Saturday, November 19th as an opportunity to promote the Big East. The delay with BYU seems to be TV revenue where ESPN/BYU want to retain all home broadcast revenue while the Big East expects the lague to absord that revenue.

As of 10/27/11, hhe Big East has lost WVU to the Big 12. They are still going forward with the plan to add UCF, SMU and Houston for all-sports with Boise St. and Air Force for football only along with Navy. Temple will likely be considered as well for the vacated WVU spot, for football only or all-sports.

As of 10/25/11, The Big East is still in waiting mode. Missouri is expected to leave the Big 12 for the SEC, opening up a spot in the Big 12 for frontrunner WVU. When WVU leaves the Big East, schools like Boise St. and Air Force may be less inclined to join the Big East for football-only. CUSA members UCF, Houston and SMU seem more likely to accept full membership in the Big East despite the expected loss of WVU. Should the Big 12 opt to expand to 12, Louisville will likely be part of the incoming class, a move that would lower the Big East total membership to 4 football members. At that point, the Big East will need to decide:

1) expand with 4-6 all-sports schools such as UCF, Houston, SMU, Temple, etc and hope it is enough to retain the BCS AQ

2) drop football sponsorship and allow the 4 football members to seek football-only membership in the CUSA/MWC partnership

3) invite 4 all-sports members to keep FBS football and include football only members such as ECU to add to the membership totals

As of 10/6/11, TCU was formally invited to the Big 12 to be the 12th member. This brings the Big East to 6 football members. Louisville and WVU continue to be options for the Big 12 should they lose Missouri and need a new #10 school. If they expand to 12 with or without Missouri, Lousiville and WVU are considered top candidates. Cincinnati to also on the rdar to some extent if Missouri left and the Big 12 opted to expand to 12. As in previous weeks, Uconn and Rutgers continue to hope that the ACC offers them invitations.

As of 10/5/11:

The Big East, like the Big 12, is on life support. With the losses of Pitt and Syracuse to the ACC, the conference is now at 7 members for football.

Potential candidates now include: UCF, SMU, Air Force and Temple for all sports, with Navy, Villanova & ECU for football-only options. Temple is also a football-only option. Oddly, Houston is not a top option now. Memphis is not considered an option either.

But the Big East is now in a position where they risk loosing further members:

- Rutgers and UConn remain potential flight risks to the ACC schould they expand to 16

- WVU remains a target for the SEC #14 spot

- Louisville, WVU, TCU, Cincinnati and even Rutgers remain on the radar for a rebuilt Big 12 should Texas remain

- TCU could opt to remain in the Mountain West

At one point, a scenario existed where Big 12 remnants and the Big East form some type of union. It had appeared that the Big East had to power hand at 9, willing to bring in the likes of Kansas, Kansas St., Missouri, Iowa St. and Baylor. But now, a Big 12 with 7 members including Texas could easily woo select Big East schools.

As of 9/8/11, the Beast East was actively looking to expand to 10 football members, considering football expansion to 12, but would prefer football only candidates. If the SEC expands, there will likely be trickle down with the Big East losing schools to ACC, SEC, Big 12.

Potential expansion candidates include 
Houston
, UCF, Villanova
, Navy/Army, Temple, East Carolina, Memphis.

With Texas A&M leaving the Big 12, there is always the threat that the Pac-12 will revisit adding schools such as Texas, Texas Tech, Oklahoma and Oklahoma St. If such a thing happened, the Big East would likely look to add most/all of the remaining schools if available from the Big 12: Missouri, Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St., Baylor.

Temple University Conference Realignment

Temple

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 3/7/12:
The Big East has brought in Temple as an all-sports member on 3/7/12. Temple will join for football for the 2012 season with a $6 million exit fee for the MAC and leave the A10 for non-football sports in 2013 ($1 million exit fee).

News: 2/10/12:

Temple is in an interesting position. They are still on the Big East radar to some extend for membership in a number of ways – football only, basketball-only, and all-sports. But with the recent Big East membership changes, Temple is likely out of the Big East plans due to the Memphis all-sports addition.

Temple also remains a candidate to join the newly merged CUSA/MWC conference. Likely, they would be a football-only member. But the school could be slotted in for all-sports with nearby Marshall and ECU.

News: 10/5/11:

Temple is being considered for either an all-sports or football-only membership in the Big East.

History:

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.

United States Naval Academy Conference Realignment

Navy
Ind. (Football)
Patriot (BB)

News: 1/23/12:

Navy is set to join the Big East in 2015

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a Big East football only group comprised of Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/7/11:

The school is currently a candidate for a football-only invite in the Big East

Would consider Big East membership if invited (and the conference stable).

History: turned down CUSA twice.

Boise State University Conference Realignment

Boise State

(FOOTBALL ONLY)

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a Big East football only group comprised of Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/7/11:

The school is currently a candidate for a football-only invite in the Big East

News: 6/11/10:

Boise St. has officially accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West, starting July 2011.

—————————————————————–

History:
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.

San Diego State University Conference Realignment

San Diego State

(FOOTBALL ONLY)

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/7/11:
SDSU is trying to be included in the proposed Big East expansion

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.

University of Memphis Conference Realignment

Memphis

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: Feb 7, 2012:
Happy days are here again for Memphis. After being passed over by the Big East in favor of SMU, Houston, UCF for all-sports and SDSU, Boise St. and Navy for football, Memphis has finally be added to the Big East stable. While the lineup looks more like CUSA now, Memphis at least was not left behind.

A good market with a good basketball program. Football program is on the ups.

History:

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 Methodist University Conference Realignment

SMU

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a group to join the Big East for all sports (UCF, SMU, Houston) along with football only members Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/07/11: The school remains expected to accept a Big East invitation to join for all sports.

News: 10/5/11:
SMU is being considered as a Big East replacement

News: 9/1/11:
SMU is actively pursuing the Big 12 to replace a departing TAMU.

History:

Comfortable in CUSA. Like Rice, could be a future Big 12 option. Could be targeted by the MWC for expanson to 12 schools.

University of Central Flordia Conference Realignment

Central Florida

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a group to join the Big East for all sports (UCF, SMU, Houston) along with football only members Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/07/11: The school remains expected to accept a Big East invitation to join for all sports.

History:

A 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

University of Houston Conference Realignment

Houston

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a group to join the Big East for all sports (UCF, SMU, Houston) along with football only members Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/07/11: The school remains expected to accept a Big East invitation to join for all sports.

News: 9/8/11: Is considered to be a candidate at some level under some Big 12 scenarios. Houston is also a candidate for the Big East #10 spot should the landscape remain stable.

Possible (2/10/12): if Big 12 expands from 10 to 12, could be a candidate

History:

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.

Rutgers University Conference Realignment

Rutgers

orange grid Conference RealignmentRutgers is holding out hope that the ACC will send them a life raft as #16 with Uconn as #15.

News: 9/8/11:

Is considered to be a candidate at some level under some Big 12 scenarios, likely involving other Big East schools (1-4 total).

Specs:

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”.

University of Connecticut Conference Realignment

Connecticut

orange grid Conference RealignmentUconn is holding out hope that the ACC will send them a life raft. Uconn could be the ACC #16 school if Notre Dame opts to join as #15. If Notre Dame passes, Uconn will need to hope that the ACC finds enough appeal in Rutgers.

Longshot: is extended an invitation from the Big Ten.

Long shot: Has been rumored to be on the Big 12 radar

 

University of Cincinnati Conference Realignment

Cincinnati

orange grid Conference RealignmentCould be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East.

Possible (2/10/12): if Big 12 expands from 10 to 12, could be a candidate

University of Louisville Conference Realignment

Louisville

orange grid Conference RealignmentNews: 10/26/11:

Louisville is putting pressure on the Big 12 to invite them instead of WVU, a move that seemed finalized yesterday. Sources claim it’s 50/50 on WVU or UL for the post-Missouri #10 spot.

News: 10/20/11:

Louisville is considered the #2 option for the Big 12 after WVU as a replacement for Missouri.

News: 9/8/11:

Is considered to be a candidate at some level under some Big 12 scenarios, likely involving other Big East schools (1-4 total).

Specs:

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”.

News: 8/31/11:

Louisville and Pitt are rumored to be candidates for the Big 12 following the departure of Texas A&M. WVU has also been mentioned.

Long shot: if the Big 12 lost 7 members and sought replacement to maintain the Big 12, they could be a potential target.

University of South Florida Conference Realignment

South Florida

orange grid Conference RealignmentCould 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 University Conference Realignment

DePaul

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

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 University Conference Realignment

Marquette

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

Georgetown University Conference Realignment

Georgetown

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

Providence College Conference Realignment

Providence

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

Seton Hall University Conference Realignment

Seton Hall

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

Saint Johns University Conference Realignment

St. Johns

yellow grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

Villanova University Conference Realignment

Villanova

orange grid Conference Realignment* Big East non-football member

News: 9/9/10:

Villanova has received an invitation from the Big East to upgrade it’s football program and join as the 9th member.

Past News:

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.

Back to the top

Big%20Ten%20Conference Conference Realignment

Big Ten Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Stable. Would likely only expand if Notre Dame were available or if the current conference trend changed to 14 or 16 schools. 
 Recently stated they are not looking to expand, but if ”super conferences” came to be, might look at schools like Missouri, Syracuse, Pitt, Uconn, Boston College, Rutgers, etc.

University of Illinois Conference Realignment

Illinois

Very stable.

Indiana University Conference Realignment

Indiana

Very stable.

University of Iowa Conference Realignment

Iowa

Very stable.

University of Michigan Conference Realignment

Michigan

Very stable.

Michigan State University Conference Realignment

Michigan State

Very stable.

University of Minnesota Twin Cities Conference Realignment

Minnesota

Very stable.

University of Nebraska Linc Conference Realignment

Nebraska

gray grid Conference RealignmentNews: 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 University Conference Realignment

Northwestern

Very stable.

Ohio State University Conference Realignment

Ohio State

Very stable.

Pennsylvania State University Conference Realignment

Penn State

Very stable.

Purdue University Conference Realignment

Purdue

Very stable.

University of Wisconsin Madison Conference Realignment

Wisconsin

Very stable.

Back to the top

Big%20Twelve%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Big 12 Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 11/07/11:

Missouri has officially joined the SEC, expected to begin play in 2012. This likely means the Big 12 will operate with only 9 schools for 2012 as they await WVU a year later.

As of 10/27/11:
WVU has been invited and accepted to join the Big 12. Missouri is expected to join the SEC, keeping the membership numbers at 10. There is still a chance that Louisville and perhaps a 12th school could be invited, but it appears 10 will be the number.

As of 10/25/11, The Big 12 is still waiting on Missouri, although it appears Missouri will announce plans to join the SEC in the coming days. WVU is considered the top option to replace Missouri, followed by Louisville. BYU is still on the radar but it seems more likely they join under a 12 school scenario. The conference is not yet set on remaining at 10 or expanding to 12. Notre Dame is also being pursued as a non-football member should they opt to leave the Big East.

As of 10/5/11, the big 12 is still all over the place. The conference make strides in opting for equal revenue sharing for all Tier 1 and Tier 2 rights, a big win for all the schools not names Oklahoma or Texas.

However, Missouri has cold feet. On 10/4/11, the school voted to consider all it’s options. This means Missouri will consider the SEC. If no formal invitation is extended, Missouri will remain in the Big 12. The school might opt to remain even with an SEC invitation, although that would seem to be a long shot.

As of 9/18/11, the Big 12 plans was still in a holding pattern. The skinny?

Texas was considering it’s options, with a defection to the Pac-12 or rebuilding the Big 12 as the top options. Joining the ACC with Pitt and Syracuse and likely a 16th school, Notre Dame or Rutgers was being considered, but has lost any traction due to the ACC stance on equal revenue sharing.

However, with the Big East losing 2 schools and potentially losing 2 more, it did give the Big 12 more power in it’s own control.

Baylor & others threatened legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they would waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12).

Oklahoma and Oklahoma St., meanwhile, were evaluating the Pac-12 as an option.

If they opted to leave, Texas reportedly could have remained in a rebuilt Big 12 but would have still had the option to join the then Pac-14 with Texas Tech.

Meanwhile, Missouri remained a candidate for the potential #14 spot in the SEC

Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

Baylor University Conference Realignment

Baylor

News: 9/8/11:

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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 University Conference Realignment

Iowa State

News: 9/8/11:

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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 University Conference Realignment

Kansas

News: 9/8/11:

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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 University Conference Realignment

Kansas State

News: 9/8/11:

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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

Oklahoma University Conference Realignment

Oklahoma

News: 9/8/11:

Oklahoma and Oklahoma St. continue to consider the Pac-12 as an option, with or without Texas. But the Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Missouri remains a candidate for the eventual #14 SEC spot (although they would prefer to join the Big Ten). Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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 State University Conference Realignment

Oklahoma St.

News: 9/8/11:

Oklahoma and Oklahoma St. continue to consider the Pac-12 as an option, with or without Texas. But the Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Missouri remains a candidate for the eventual #14 SEC spot (although they would prefer to join the Big Ten). Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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.

University of Texas Austin Conference Realignment

Texas

green grid Conference Realignment

News: 9/9/11:
The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12).

Oklahoma and Oklahoma St., meanwhile, are evaluating the Pac-12 as an option.

If they opt to leave, Texas reportedly might remain in a rebuilt Big 12 but would still have the option to join the then Pac-14 with Texas Tech.

Meanwhile, Missouri remains a candidate for the potential #14 spot in the SEC

Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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.

History:
Was flirted with by the Pac 10 in the 90’s, 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 Christian University Conference Realignment
TCU

gray grid Conference RealignmentNews: 10/6/11: TCU has been invited to the Big 12 an expected to join for the 2012-2013 season. The move to the Big 12 would mean the school would never compete in the Big East, leaving before officially joining. TCU has been one of the most active schools in Division 1, left behind when the SWC folded, moved to the WAC, to CUSA, to MWC, to Big East in theory, and now the Big 12. The massive number of Big 12 alumni in the Dallas area should be happy they now have a Big 12 school in their market.

News: 10/5/11:
TCU is in a good spot. They are considered a top candidate for the Big 12. If they are not invited and others are like Louisville or WVU, hurting the Big East, TCU would likely opt to remain in the Mountain West.

News: 9/8/11:
While TCU is not a prominent candidate for the Big 12, they remain on the radar in the event that the Big 12 needs multiple replacements schould TAMU, missouri, Oklahoma and OSU leave.

NEWS: 11/29/10: TCU has joined the Big East as it’s 9th football and 17th all-sports member.

Specs:

Offers the Dallas/Ft. Worth market.

History:

6/10/04: 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.

Texas Tech University Conference Realignment

Texas Tech

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.

West Virginia University Conference Realignment

West Virginia

orange grid Conference RealignmentNews: 10/27/11:

WVU has been invited and accepted to join the Big 12.

News: 10/26/11:

Louisville is putting pressure on the Big 12 to invite them instead of WVU, a move that seemed finalized yesterday. Sources claim it’s 50/50 on WVU or UL for the post-Missouri #10 spot.

News: 10/25/11:

WVU is expended to be joining the Big 12

News: 10/20/11:

WVU is considered the frontrunner to join the Big 12 to replace Missouri when that school leaves for the SEC.

News: 9/8/11:

Is considered to be a candidate at some level under some Big 12 scenarios, likely involving other Big East schools (1-4 total). WVU is also considered to be a candidate for the SEC #14 spot.

News: 8/31/11:

Louisville and Pitt are rumored to be candidates for the Big 12 following the departure of Texas A&M. WVU has also been mentioned.

News 8/30/11:

With the SEC expected to expand to 14, WVU has been mentioned as a potential candidate.

Prospects:

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”.

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Conference%20USA Conference Realignment

Conference USA
Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 5/17/12:

ODU and CUSA made it official: ODU will join CUSA in 2013.

As of 5/1/12, The CUSA & Mountain West merger has been put aside in what will likely be in favor of a football-only alliance. As a result, both CUSA and the Mountain West will be replentishing it’s lost members. CUSA will be adding UTSA along with likely North Texas and Florida International and Louisiana Tech. Charlotte and ODU will join for #13 and #14. The Mountain West will be adding Utah St. and San Jose St. to grow it’s membership to 10 football members.

On 4/26/12, news broke that CUSA will be adding UTSA along with likely North Texas and Florida International and Louisiana Tech

As of 3/26/12, despite all the planning for a full CUSA/MWC merger, the merger plan has been shelved due to issues regarding finances and the NCAA. While the original plan appeared to originally be a a means to save money while improving the television contract, it actually would require too much of a financial forfeiture of tournament revenue to off-set any gains of an improved television contract. with dissolving both conference to form a new conference off the table, (2) options remain: 1) remain as two seperate conferences, or 2) elimnate 1 conference through a full merger.

CUSA will have to decide on remaining at 8 (less schools to split revenue with) or to expand. Schools such as North Texas, FIU, FAU, Charlotte, UTSA, Appalachian St, LA Tech will likely be the top candidates.

 

CUSA Timeline from 10/5/11 until the 2/12/12 PROPOSED CUSA/Mountain West merger announcement:

As of 2/12/12, It was official: Starting in 2013, Conference USA and Mountain West conference will both fold, then merge schools to form a new conference. Membership will include all 15 all-sports schools, with Hawaii for football only. Schools such as Temple, Utah St. and San Jose St. are also expected to be considered as membership could grow to 18-24 schools. Other WAC and Sunbelt schools could also be in the mix.

As of 2/7/12, CUSA is facing yet another departure as Memphis will be joining the Big East. The conference must now consider whether they will merge for all-sports with the Mountain West conference, form a football-only alliance, or bring in expansion candidates. With the cache a bit down for CUSA, they could lose a school such as UTEP to the MWC if a merger does not go through. If CUSA seeks replacements, North Texas, Temple and WAC schools such as LA Tech, UTSA and Texas St. are candidates.

As of 12/07/11, CUSA has recently lost 3 members: UCF, Houston and SMU to the Big East, bringing their membership total to 9 members. The conference is considering a merge with the MWC, bringing their all-sports membership to 16 with 17 for football, allowing a true east and west divisional alignment. If the all-sports merger fails, CUSA would likely look to schools such as North Texas, LA Tech, Temple, UTSA, Texas St. and potential FCS upgrades to replace the missing schools.

As of 10/25/11, CUSA and the Mountain West have announced a football partnership. The new group will operate as a 22 school conference for football only. Both conferences are both waiting on decisions by members UCF, SMU and Houston from CUSA and Boise St. and Air Force from the MWC regarding the Big East. If all leave, membership will be at 9 for CUSA and 8 for MWC. Utah St. would likely be a candidate for the MWC, in which case the group may opt to remain at 9/9 divisions. Other schools that will be considered include North Texas (to replace lost Dallas market by SMU) and UTSA. It is also not overly unlilkely that CUSA could add Texas schools and “send” UTEP to the MWC football division. In this scenario, the MWC would go from 8 to 10 with UTEP and Utah St., while CUSA went to 10 with North Texas and UTSA.

As of 10/5/11, Conference USA is in an interesting position. They are poised to perhaps lose UCF and SMU to the Big East. Houston is also somewhat of a target. However, the conference might end up being a winner.

If the Big East were to lose Louisville and WVU to Big 12, and TCU to Big 12 or MWC, the Big East would be down to 4 schools: UConn, Rutgers, Cincinnati and USF. CUSA might be able to pull a cpoup and bring in all 4 for football-only. Perhaps even Cincinnati and USF for all-sports. Regardless, schools like UCF and SMU might not be willing to jump to the Big East if it were those lone 4 schools. Uconn and Rutgers also remain targets for the ACC, meaning CUSA could “rescue” USF and Cincinnati with all-sports invites.

As of 9/11/11, the conference would be considered stable but members could be targeted by several other conferences such as the Big East (Houston, UCF, Memphis, ECU) and Big 12 (Houston, SMU). Should CUSA need to add replacements, potential candidates include North Texas, Temple, Charlotte, MTSU, Louisiana Tech, Troy, UTSA, Texas St., New Mexico St., FAU and FIU.

East Carolina University Conference Realignment

East Carolina

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

University of Southern Mississippi Conference Realignment

Southern Miss

Strong football program but small market

Tulane University Conference Realignment

Tulane

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

University of Alabama Birmingham Conference Realignment

UAB

Comfortable in CUSA.

Marshall University Conference Realignment

Marshall

Comfortable in CUSA.

Rice University Conference Realignment

Rice

Comfortable in CUSA; if a spot opened in the Big 12 and other options were exhausted, the Big 12 might consider Rice.

Tulsa University Conference Realignment

Tulsa

Comfortable in CUSA.

utep Conference Realignment

UTEP

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNews: 11/07/11: With CUSA expected to lose 3 schools, bringing their number to 9, and the MWC potentially losing 2 schools to drop to 8, there is a chance that UTEP will move to the MWC with CUSA adding a school such as North Texas. CUSA and MWC are expected to have a football partnership, even if the membership numbers drop to 18.

Updates: UTEP rumored to be one fo the possibile candidates for MWC expansion to 12

Background:

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.

utsa Conference Realignment

Texas-San Antonio

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 4/20/12:
UTSA will join CUSA for the 2013 season. Upon official announcment, this section will be moved to CUSA.

News: 3/25/12:
School has an informal invitation from the Sun Belt.

NEWS: 11/4/10:
Will join the WAC conference

——

Will sponsor football and hopes to be at the FBS level.

Possible: Joins Sunbelt

Possible: Joins CUSA/MWC

Louisana Tech University Conference Realignment

Louisiana Tech

 

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 4/20/12:

Louisiana Tech will be moving to CUSA as member #12 (with UTSA, North Texas and FIU)

History:

With all the stability issues regarding the WAC, every school is keeping it’s options open. Some have potential for the Mountain West or CUSA, while others could become targets by the Sunbelt.

LA Tech doesn’t 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

Flordia International University Conference Realignment

Florida International

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/20/12:
Florida International is expected to join CUSA in 2013.

 

University of North Texas Conference Realignment

North Texas

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/20/12:
North Texas is expected to join CUSA in 2013.

History:
Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split.

Possible: candidate for CUSA/MWC should they seek replacements

History:

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.

University of North Carolina Charlotte Conference Realignment

Charlotte

(FCS Football, upgrading to FBS)

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 5/1/12:

Charlotte will be joining CUSA for the 2013 season, with football joining once they are ready for FBS.

News: 4/20/12:
Charlotte is expected to move to CUSA (if it is selected over LA Tech for the final spot) or to the Sun Belt.

News: 3/25/12:
School has an informal invitation from the Sun Belt. Would play football there once upgrading to FBS. Charlotte is expected to accept unless a CUSA/MWC invite were issued instead. Currently, LA Tech is leading Charlotte for the final CUSA spot available.

History:
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/MWC for football or all-sports

Long shot: joins Sunbelt for all-sports

Long shot: joins Big East for all-sports

Old Dominion University Conference Realignment

Old Dominion

grey grid Conference Realignment

News: 5/1/12:

ODU will be joining CUSA for the 2013 season. They will eventually upgrade football to FBS and participate in that conference.

News: 4/29/12:

With the GMU and VCU to the A10 discussions, ODU might speed up any FBS plans to ensure a spot in either CUSA or the Sun Belt.

History:

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.

Has thought about a future in FBS, likely contingent on upgrades by area schools such as JMU, Delaware and Georgia St.

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Mountain%20West%20Conference Conference Realignment

Mountain West
Expansion & Realignment


Status as of 4/29/12:

The CUSA & Mountain West merger has been put aside in what will likely be in favor of a football-only alliance. As a result, both CUSA and the Mountain West will be replentishing it’s lost members. CUSA will be adding UTSA along with likely North Texas and Florida International and Louisiana Tech. Charlotte and ODU will join for #13 and #14. The Mountain West will be adding Utah St. and San Jose St. to grow it’s membership to 10 football members.

As of 3/26/12, despite all the planning for a full CUSA/MWC merger, the merger plan has been shelved due to issues regarding finances and the NCAA. While the original plan appeared to originally be a a means to save money while improving the television contract, it actually would require too much of a financial forfeiture of tournament revenue to off-set any gains of an improved television contract. with dissolving both conference to form a new conference off the table, (2) options remain: 1) remain as two seperate conferences, or 2) elimnate 1 conference through a full merger.

The MWC will likely look to add Utah St. and San Jose St. to bring their membership numbers to 10 for football and 9 for all-sports. Air Force is still a threat to leave for the Big East. The conference will likely remain at 9/10 to save space for Boise St. and SDSU should they seek to rejoin.

 

Mountain West Timeline from 10/5/11 until the 2/12/12 PROPOSED Conference USA & Mountain West merger:

As of 2/12/12, It was official: Starting in 2013, Conference USA and Mountain West conference will both fold, then merge schools to form a new conference. Membership will include all 15 all-sports schools, with Hawaii for football only. Schools such as Temple, Utah St. and San Jose St. are also expected to be considered as membership could grow to 18-24 schools. Other WAC and Sunbelt schools could also be in the mix.

As of 12/8/12, The Mountain West recetly lost Boise St. and SDSU to the Big East for non-football sports. Air Force has passed on the Big East. The 8 member MWC seems destined to either merge all-sports with CUSA or remain at 8. If they lose Air Force as well, the conference would likely merge with CUSA as adding Utah St. and SJSU, the only two schools the conference has looked at, would only bring their membership total to 9…with few other options if other schools left.

As of 10/25/11, CUSA and the Mountain West have announced a football partnership. The new group will operate as a 22 school conference for football only. Both conferences are both waiting on decisions by members UCF, SMU and Houston from CUSA and Boise St. and Air Force from the MWC regarding the Big East. If all leave, membership will be at 9 for CUSA and 8 for MWC. Utah St. would likely be a candidate for the MWC, in which case the group may opt to remain at 9/9 divisions. Other schools that will be considered include North Texas (to replace lost Dallas market by SMU) and UTSA. It is also not overly unlilkely that CUSA could add Texas schools and “send” UTEP to the MWC football division. In this scenario, the MWC would go from 8 to 10 with UTEP and Utah St., while CUSA went to 10 with North Texas and UTSA.

As of 10/5/11, The Mountain West might actually benefit from this years movement. While Boise St. remains a potential target by the Big 12, the MWC might retain all it’s current members. They also might retain TCU should the Big East lose more members and TCU opt to remain in the MWC.

Claims to be happy at 10 but rumors about adding two more for a conference championship have been on going for months. The recent Big 12 developments have likely put those thoughts on hold as they wait to see if anything drastic happens in the Big 12, freeing up schools like Kansas, Kansas St., Missouri, etc. Should the MWC need any replacements should the Big 12 take any schools, or seek to expand to 12, the likely candidates include: Houston, SMU, UTEP, Utah State, San Jose State.

United States Air Force Academy Conference Realignment

Air Force

News: 12/08/11: Air Force has officially passed on the Big East

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a Big East football only group comprised of Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/7/11:

The school is currently a candidate for a football-only invite in the Big East

NEWS: 9/8/11:

Is considered to be one of the candidates for the Big12 if/when Texas A&M leaves.

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.

Colorado State University Conference Realignment

Colorado St

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

University of New Mexico Conference Realignment

New Mexico

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

California State University Fresno Conference Realignment

Fresno State

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 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 aren’t 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.

University of Nevada Reno Conference Realignment

Nevada

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 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 aren’t too many candidates other than Fresno, Hawaii, Boise St., UTEP.

University of Hawaii Conference Realignment

Hawaii

(Football-only) member

gray grid Conference Realignment

NEWS: 12/10/10: Hawaii will leave the WAC after the 2011-2012 season and join the MWC for football and the Big West for all other sports.

NEWS: 11/19/20

Hawaii is expected to join the MWC as a football only member.

Old News:

Hawaii is currently a member of the WAC as of 11/16/10. They have been seeking membership in the Big West and participate as a football independent.

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.

University of Nevada Las Vegas Conference Realignment

UNLV

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

Long shot: If the Big East needed new FB only members, UNLV could be included

Wyoming Univesity Conference Realignment

Wyoming

 

The least likely MWC school to leave the conference.

Utah State University Conference Realignment

Utah State

orange grid Conference Realignment

News: 4/29/12:
Utah St. and San Jose St. will join the Mountain West for 2013
. Upon formal announcment, this section will be moved to MWC.

History:

Utah St. seemed to come close to getting a MWC invitation in January 2011. It appeared that both Utah St. and SJSU would be brought in at some pressure from the MWC TV partner, Comcast. In the end, cooler heads prevailed and the MWC chose to remain at 9/10 schools.

Rejected an 8/18/10 invite from MWC thinking the conference would remain solid, only to see Fresno and Nevada leave the next day.

Possible: eventually joins the CUSA/MWC

San Jose State University Conference Realignment

San Jose State

orange grid Conference Realignment

News: 4/29/12:
Utah St. and San Jose St. will join the Mountain West for 2013
. Upon formal announcment, this section will be moved to MWC.

History:

Currently in the WAC as there are no other options. SJSU seemed to come close to getting a MWC invitation in January 2011, but the conference ultimately opted to remain at 9/10 members.

Possible: joins CUSA/MWC

   
ncaa Conference Realignment

 

Division 1 Independent Realignment

Status as of 1/23/12:

Navy is set to join the Big East in 2015.

In the fall of 2011, BYU remained a candidate for the Big 12. It did appear that BYU would only be in the mix if the Big 12 opted for 12 schools as WVU was picked to replace Missouri.

Notre Dame was a candidate for the Big 12 as a non-football member, if they opted to leave the now depleted Big East.

As for 10/5/11, Notre Dame will always be an option for the Big Ten, should the school seek to join. The Big 12 is also interested in Notre Dame. The ACC is also considered a top option for Notre Dame if the Big East is to fold due to lost members.

BYU is a potential option for the Big 12 if they expand to 12, although the school has been difficult with contract negotiations..
Army and Navy at one time might consider a conference such as the Big East, if the Big East extends partial schedules for both schools. Thus far, both schools have rejected the idea.

Brigham Young University Conference Realignment

BYU

Ind (Football)

WCC (BB)

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a Big East football only group comprised of Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/07/11:
BYU is considered a candidate for the #12 football-only spot in the Big East should Boise St., Air Force and Navy all accept.

NEWS: 9/8/11:
BYU is rumored to be the top Big 12 candidate to replace Texas A&M

NEWS: 9/1/10:

BYU has left the MWC to participate as an independent. 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.

University of Notre Dame Conference Realignment

Notre Dame

Ind (Football)

Big East (BB)

green grid Conference RealignmentNews: 10/25/11:

Interesting times for Notre Dame. With the Big East falling apart and their rebuilding plans less than desirable for Notre Dame, the school may opt to join the Big 12 as a non-football member. Should they opt to give up independence, the ACC would likely be a top option, despite generating less revenue than the Big Ten. The ACC would give the school more access to the northeast markets via Boston College, Syracuse, and Pitt. UConn would also likely join as #16 if Notre Dame joined for #15.

History: 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.

News: 10/5/11:
Notre Dame continues to be a candidate for the ACC until they officially reject the conference. It is believed that Notre Dame would prefer the ACc due to the northeast market presence with Boston College, Syracuse and Pitt as well as the recruiting advantages of the southern based conference. Uconn would likely join Notre Dame in the ACC for #16.

News: 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.

News: 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.

United States Millitary Academy Conference Realignment

Army

Ind (Football)

Patriot (BB)

Like Navy, might be open to a Big East football invite should they seek to expand.

 

 

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Mid%20American%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

MAC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 10/5/11:
The MAC resides at the lower level of the FBS tier and recently expanded to 14 with the addition of UMass. UMass joins as a football only member similar to Temple. Temple is considered an option for CUSA and the Big East, which would leave the MAC at 13 members for football. Should Temple leave the MAC, it might effect UMass’ membership in the MAC.

University of Akron Conference Realignment

Akron

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Ball State University Conference Realignment

Ball St.

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Bowling Green State University Conference Realignment

Bowling Green

Not a viable candidate at this time.

University of Buffalo Conference Realignment

Buffalo

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 University Conference Realignment

Central Michigan

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Eastern Michigan University Conference Realignment

Eastern Michigan

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Kent State University Conference Realignment

Kent St.

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Miami University Ohio Conference Realignment

Miami (OH)

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Northern Illinois University Conference Realignment

Northern Illinois

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Ohio University Conference Realignment

Ohio

Not a viable candidate at this time.

University of Toledo Conference Realignment

Toledo

Not a viable candidate at this time.

Western Michigan University Conference Realignment
Western Michigan

Not a viable candidate at this time.

University of Massachusettes Amhearst Conference Realignment

UMass

MAC (Football only)

yellow grid Conference Realignment

News: 3/7/12:
The Big East has brought in Temple as an all-sports member on 3/7/12. The move could mean trouble for UMass, as per the MAC contract, the conference can expel UMass after 2 years if Temple , the other football only member, left, which they are.

News: 2/10/12:

Temple is in an interesting position. They are still on the Big East radar to some extend for membership in a number of ways – football only, basketball-only, and all-sports. But with the recent Big East membership changes, Temple is likely out of the Big East plans due to the Memphis all-sports addition.

Temple also remains a candidate to join the newly merged CUSA/MWC conference. Likely, they would be a football-only member. But the school could be slotted in for all-sports with nearby Marshall and ECU.

News: 10/5/11:

Temple is being considered for either an all-sports or football-only membership in the Big East.

History:

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.

News: 2/10/12:

UMass might not be a top target, but is on the radar for the new CUSA/MWC conference (now at 16) that is considering a move to 16. If Temple is included, adding UMass might make sense as it would give the coast-to-coast conference access to the northeast market of Boston. With schools like Temple, ECU and Marshall, the conference would have a stronger eastern presence.

NEWS: 4/29/10:

UMass will join the MAC in FBS for the 2013 season

Long shot: If the Big East ever split and expanded to 12, UMass could be an option many years down the road if the FBS upgrade is successful in the MAC. UMass could also be a replacement candidate in the future for the Big East or CUSA.

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Pacific%2010%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Pac 12 Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/18/11:
Happy at 12 members, but has it’s eyes on Oklahoma and Oklahoma St. for a Pac-14 or including Texas and Texas A&M for a Pac-16. Likely will only expand to 16 if Texas drops its’ demand to keep LHN money. As of 9/18/11, all parties were still discussing their options.

University of Arizona Conference Realignment

Arizona

Very stable. Could be approached by the Big XII should they expand, but a long shot.

Arizona State University Conference Realignment

Arizona State

Very stable. Could be approached by the Big XII should they expand, but a long shot.

University of California Berkley Conference Realignment

California

Very stable.

Colorado University Conference Realignment

Colorado

grey grid Conference Realignment

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.

University of Oregon Conference Realignment

Oregon

Very stable.

Oregon State University Conference Realignment

Oregon St

Very stable.

Stanford University Conference Realignment

Stanford

Very stable.

University of California Los Angeles Conference Realignment

UCLA

Very stable.

University of Southern California Conference Realignment

USC

Very stable.

University of Utah Conference Realignment

Utah

grey grid Conference Realignment

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.

University of Washington Conference Realignment

Washington

Very stable.

Washington State University Conference Realignment

Washington St

Very stable.

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Southeastern%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

SEC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 11/06/11:

News: 11/06/11:
Missouri has officially joined the SEC, expected to begin play in 2012.

As of 10/25/11:
Missouri is expected to receive an inviation from the SEC in the coming weeks, making them the #14 school in the conference.

As of 10/5/11, all eyes are on the SEC as the conference, now at 13, is a risk to expand to 14. Missouri tops the current lista move that would add the St. Louis and Kansas City markets to the conference. Such a move, along with the addition of Texas A&M, would likely boost the conferences TV revenue to $25 million per school annually.

Texas A&M was formally been accepted to the SEC as of 9/25/11.

History:

Was the first conference to go to 12 and may be the first to 14. Texas A&M appears to be moving to the SEC with a 14th school an eventual outcome at some point in the future. If a 14th school is added, potential candidates, despite public denials could include Florida State, Virginia Tech, Missouri, West Virginia, Clemson, Louisville, Georgia Tech. Oklahoma remains a top target but unlikely to consider at this time.

University of Missouri Conference Realignment

Missouri

yellow grid Conference Realignment
News: 11/06/11:
Missouri has officially joined the SEC, expected to begin play in 2012.

News: 10/25/11:

Missouri is still expected to join the SEC, although the timetable has yet to be finalized.

News: 10/5/11:

Last night, the school voted to consider other conference options. Missouri will now decide on either remaining in the Big 12 or to pursue the SEC.

News: 9/8/11:

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Missouri remains a candidate for the eventual #14 SEC spot (although they would prefer to join the Big Ten). Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12). Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

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.

Historical Prospects:

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.

University of Alabama Tuscloosa Conference Realignment

Alabama

Very stable.

University of Arkansas Conference Realignment

Arkansas

green grid Conference RealignmentVery 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 unlikely.

Auburn University Conference Realignment

Auburn

Very stable.

University of Florida Conference Realignment

Florida

Very stable.

University of Georgia Conference Realignment

Georgia

Very stable.

University of Kentucky Conference Realignment

Kentucky

Very stable.

Louisana State University Conference Realignment

LSU

Very stable.

University of Mississippi Conference Realignment

Mississippi

Very stable.

Mississippi State University Conference Realignment

Mississippi St.

Very stable.

University of South Carolina Columbia Conference Realignment

South Carolina

Very stable.

University of Tennessee Knoxville Conference Realignment

Tennessee

Very stable.

Vanderbilt University Conference Realignment

Vanderbilt

Very stable.

Texas A&M University Colleg Conference Realignment

Texas A&M

green grid Conference RealignmentNews: 9/25/11: Texas A&M has officially been accepted to the SEC

News: 9/8/11:
Texas A&M had been given a 5pm deadline to accept an SEC invitation. But in light of the recent threats by Big 12 member schools, the acceptance has been put on hold. TAMU might still declare their intent to leave for the SEC on 2012, or avoid any legal issues by waiting until 2013.

The Big 12 plans are still in a holding pattern. The skinny? Baylor & others threat of legal actions against SEC if TAMU leaves. Same schools say they will waive those legal rights if Oklahoma commits (not leaving for Pac-12).

Oklahoma and Oklahoma St., meanwhile, are evaluating the Pac-12 as an option.

If they opt to leave, Texas reportedly might remain in a rebuilt Big 12 but would still have the option to join the then Pac-14 with Texas Tech.

Meanwhile, Missouri remains a candidate for the potential #14 spot in the SEC

Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St. and Baylor have all had preliminary conversations with the Big East as backup. In this scenario, 3-4 of these schools would help expand the Big East to 12 football schools, 20 basketball schools.

News: 8/31/11:

As has been in the works for the past month, Texas A&M has officially announced its intentions to leave the Big 12. Pending an official SEC invite, Texas A&M will join the SEC as the 13th member

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.

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Sun%20Belt%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Sunbelt Expansion & Realignment


Status as of 5/1/12:

Texas St. and Texas-Arlington have been added to replace the departing North Texas and Florida International.

On 4/2/12, Georgia St. was added as the next member of the Sun Belt.

As of 9/11/11…The Sun Belt was at 10 football members and 11 for all sports. Could consider a WAC member of FCS upgrade if they look to expand to 12 football members.

Georgia State University Conference Realignment

Georgia St

 

grey grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/2/12: Georgia St. has been added as the next member of the Sun Belt.

History:
Often mentioned as future FBS conference candidate once football program decides on upgrade plans.

Possible: joins the Sunbelt or CUSA once they add FBS football.

Florida Atlantic University Conference Realignment

Florida Atlantic

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/MWC should they seek replacements

Arkansas State University Conference Realignment

Arkansas St

No interest.

Old News:

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/MWC if there were a Southwest conference split their.

University of Louisana Lafayette Conference Realignment

La. – Lafayette

No interest.

Old News:

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 University Conference Realignment

Troy

Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted if there were a CUSA split.

Long shot: candidate for CUSA/MWC should they seek replacements

May 25, 2003: Officially joined the Sunbelt for all-sports

Middle Tennessee State University Conference Realignment

Middle Tennessee St.

Comfortable in the Sunbelt, but could be targeted by CUSA if there were a Southwest conference split.

Old News:

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/MWC should they seek replacements

University of Louisana Monroe Conference Realignment

La. – Monroe

Little interest. Joined the Sunbelt for all sports in 2005-2006.

Western Kentucky University Conference Realignment

Western Kentucky

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

University of South Alabama Conference Realignment

South Alabama

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

University of Arkansas Little Rock Conference Realignment

Arkansas – Little Rock

As the only non-football school, UALR might move to the Southland or the Summit League.

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.

Texas State University San Marcos Conference Realignment
Texas State

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 4/30/12:

Texas St. will join the Sun Belt, along with WAC member Texas-Arlington, for the 2013 season

 

History:

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

Texas St. could be left out of the FBS football conference mix. Their primary hope is that the Sun Belt loses 2-3 schools with their membership dropping to 8-9. Either Charlotte or LA Tech would be the top replacement, whichever one is not invited to CUSA. Texas St. expects that it will slip into the next spot for school #11 under the scenario in which the Sun Belt loses North Texas and FIU to CUSA, adds Georgia St. for #9, adds Charlotte or LA Tech for #10, and Texas St. for #11. If the Sun Belt were lose lose out on Charlotte, it might be a blessing in disguise for other schools, as the conference might than take Appalachian St. (similar region as Charlotte) and Texas St. for #12.
Scenarios if left behind:
A) Participate as a FBS independent while remaining in the  WAC for non-football sports
B)  Participate as a FBS independent while returning to the Southland for non-football sports
C)  Participate as a FBS independent while joining the Summit League for non-football sports should the WAC fold and Southland reject them
D) Downgrade to FCS football and re-join the Southland Conference
Other FBS option: school could seek football only membership in a conference such as the Sun Belt or MAC

More History:

NEWS: 11/4/10:Will join the WAC conference——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

Possbile: Joins CUSA/MWC

University of Texas Arlington Conference Realignment
Texas-Arlington

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 4/30/12:

Texas-Arlington will join the Sun Belt, along with WAC member Texas St., for the 2013 season

History:

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

Texas-Arlington will always likely have a home back in the Southland if they want it. The fact that the Southland is flirting with schools like UTPA says much about their conference stability. Even more telling is that UTPA has yet to be invited, likely a case of the Southland holding out to see how the WAC membership shakes out. If the WAC folds, UTA will have a home again. If the Southland felt too jilted, UTA could always join the Summit.

 

Other History:

NEWS: 7/10/11: Texas-Arlington will move from the Southland to the WAC conference in 2012. The school is expected to add football 4-5 years after entering, but the invite does not require football sponsorship.

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Western%20Athletic%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

WAC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 5/01/12:

Over just a few days, the WAC has lost UTSA & LA Tech to CUSA, Utah St. and San Jose St. to Moutnain West, and Texas St. & Texas-Arlington to the Sun Belt.

Just on 4/29/12, we were saying Oh, what a week it has been for the WAC. We can just about officially say that the WAC as a football conference is dead. First, they learned they were losing UTSA to CUSA with LA Tech likely to follow. Even worse, is that even if LA Tech doesn’t join CUSA, they will still move to the Sun Belt. Then it was reported the Utah St. and San Jose St. were set to join the Mountain West. Even Texas St. is likely set to leave as a Sun Belt spot will likely be open for them. A longshot, but NMSU might have a chance in the Sun Belt as well.

The WAC will likely survive as a non-football conference. To replace the 4-5 losses, they will have options such as Utah Valley, CSU Bakersfield, UTPA, New Orleans. These new schools would remain with Boise St., Idaho, Seattle, Denver, UT-Arlington and likely NMSU and possibly Texas St. for a 10 or 11 school conference.

 

As of 12/7/11, with Boise St. leaving the Mountain West for the Big East for football only, the WAC will be the home for the Broncos non-football sports. With the MWC down to 8 or even 7 football members, there is a chance they expand with schools from the WAC such as Utah St. or San Jose St. But there exists a good chance that CUSA and MWC will simply merge for all-sports, leaving the WAC alone in the process.

As of 9/1/11, despite such a large upheavel, the WAC has replaced is lost membership. Should they seek to expand further, they will look at FCS programs such as Montana, Montana State, Lamar, Sam Houston State, Stephen F. Austin, Cal Poly, Sacramento St., Portland St. None of these schools have formally applied to the WAC.

Boise State University Conference Realignment

Boise State

(in Big East for Football)

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

The newest WAC member, as a result of Boise St. moving it’s football program to the Big East. Should the WAC fold, Boise St. will have a few options.

Options if the WAC folds:
– seek membership in the Big Sky for non-football sports
– join the Summit League for non-football sports
– Try again to get the Big West to accept them for non-football sports

 

 

History:

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/21/11: Still in a holding pattern, the school is expected to be part of a Big East football only group comprised of Boise St., BYU, Air Force and Navy.

News: 11/7/11:

The school is currently a candidate for a football-only invite in the Big East

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.

New Mexico State University Conference Realignment

New Mexico St.

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

New Mexico St. is in a worse situation that Texas St. Their only hope is that the Sun Belt opts to expand to 12 schools, adding Charlotte or LA Tech along with Texas St. to get to 11 following the departures of North Texas and FIU. NMSU would have to beat out FCS schools like Appalachian St. and Georgia Southern for that final spot.

Scenarios if left behind:
A) Participate as a FBS independent while remaining in the  WAC for non-football sports
B)  Participate as a FBS independent while joining the Southland for non-football sports
C)  Participate as a FBS independent while joining the Summit League for non-football sports should the WAC fold and Southland reject them
D) Downgrade to FCS football and join Southland Conference
Other FBS option: school could seek football only membership in a conference such as the Sun Belt or MAC

 

History:

Currently in the WAC as there are no other options.

Long shot: candidate for CUSA/MWC or Sunbelt should they seek replacements

University of Idaho Conference Realignment

Idaho

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

Idaho is in the worst possible spot. They regionally are not an ideal fit for all-sports membership in the Sun Belt, the only conference that might have space for them (since the MWC does not have any desire for them at this time). Idaho’s only shot of not being am FBS football independent will be if they are able to join the Sun Belt in some capacity.

Scenarios if left behind:
A) Participate as a FBS independent while remaining in the  WAC for non-football sports
B)  Participate as a FBS independent while joining the Big Sky for non-football sports
C)  Participate as a FBS independent while joining the Summit League for non-football sports should the WAC fold and Big Sky reject them
D) Downgrade to FCS football and join Big Sky Conference
Other FBS option: school could seek football only membership in a conference such as the Sun Belt or MAC

 

History:

Currently in the WAC as there are no other options.

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.

Long shot: joins CUSA/MWC

Seattle University Conference Realignment
Seattle University

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

 Seattle has few options. They only joined the WAC because the WCC and Big West had no interest. Seattle would have one option: hope the WCC changes their stance and brings them in after Pacific joins for 12 members, and not Denver.

 

History:

6/14/11: Seattle to join the WAC as non-football member

10/20/10: Seattle is in the mix to join the WAC as a non-football member

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.

Denver University Conference Realignment

Denver

Status with the WAC looking as if it will lose football:

Denver has a few options as well. They can always join the Summit League. The could also ask the Big West to change their football requirement rules ans apply. And Denver always has the hope that thanks to the WCC addition of BYU, that the WCC would invite them as a travel partner for the Utah based school, becoming member #12.

 

 

History:

NEWS: 11/4/10:

Will join the WAC conference as a non-football member

—–

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

FCS Football and Non-football Division 1 Conferences
Atlantic%2010%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Atlantic 10 Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 5/12/12:

The A10 has seemingly locked up it’s expansion plans in replacing departing Temple with Butler and VCU will be joining the A10 in 2013 to replace Charlotte. Once Charlotte announced they were leaving, it created only a single spot for #14 and VCU was selected over GMU. GMU had been considered if Charlotte was staying to expand to 16 schools, as had an ODU & GMU tandem had ODU not had their recent inivitation from CUSA.

As of 5/1/12, Butler will join the A10 for the 2013-2014 season, replacing Temple and Charlotte is expected to join CUSA. VCU and George Mason as still considered probable to join the A10. The only hiccup now is that with the with both Temple and Charlotte leaving, by bringing in Butler, VCU and GMU, the A10 membership would grow to an uneven 15 with no high caliber candidates for #16 with ODU also headed to CUSA.

The Big East has brought in Temple as an all-sports member on 3/7/12. Temple will join for football for the 2012 season with a $6 million exit fee for the MAC and leave the A10 for non-football sports in 2013 ($1 million exit fee).

As of 9/1/11, A number of schools are targets if there were a Big East split and the basketball schools needed to replenish. Xavier, Dayton, St. Louis, Richmond and Charlotte would be likely targets. Temple and UMass, as FBS football schools, are also candidates in some form for other FBS conferences.

Virginia Commonwealth University Conference Realignment

VCU

grey grid Conference Realignment

NEWS: 5/12/12: VCU will be joining the A10 in 2013

News: 3/25/12: school is in discussions to join the A10

Stable but always nervous after being left out of every previous conference shift. Could add football at the FCs level.

Butler University Conference Realignment

Butler

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 5/1/12: Butler will join the A10 for the 2013-2014 season, replacing Temple

News: 3/25/12: school is in discussions to join the A10

History: 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.

Saint Louis University Conference Realignment

St. Louis

yellow grid Conference RealignmentWould 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.

University of Dayton Conference Realignment

Dayton

yellow grid Conference RealignmentGreat 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.

495439 l Conference Realignment
Duquesne

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 University Conference Realignment
Fordham

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 University Conference Realignment

George Washington

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 University Conference Realignment

LaSalle

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.

University of Richmond Conference Realignment

Richmond

yellow grid Conference RealignmentRichmond market; could get interest by the Big East non-football schools in years to come.

Likely: remains in A10

Saint Bonaventure University Conference Realignment

St. Bonaventure

It’s hard to look good after the recent program scandal. If ever ousted, could join MAAC, NEC or America East.

Saint Joesphs University Conference Realignment

St. Joseph’s

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.

University of Massachusettes Amhearst Conference Realignment

UMass

MAC (Football only)

grey grid Conference Realignment

NEWS: 4/19/11:

UMass will join the MAC in FBS for the 2013 season

NEWS: 12/1/10:

UMass is being considered by the MAC as a football only member

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: joins with the Big East football schools should they split from the football schools.

Long shot: joins CUSA/MWC

University of Rhode Island Conference Realignment

URI

Another Providence market team (home of the Big East offices) but light-years from an upgrade. In fact, while currently in the CAA for football in 2011, URI will be downgrading and joining the NEC within 2 years.

Xavier University Conference Realignment

Xavier

yellow grid Conference RealignmentWould 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.

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America%20East%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

America East Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 4/02/12:

The AE will be on guard in the near future. With Georgia St. leaving the CAA, AE member Stony Brook is expected to be a top candidate. If GMU or VCU were to leave the CAA, Boston University would likely be a top replacement candidate as well. For the AE, they will likely look to the NEC for replacements such as Central Connecticut St., Monmouth, etc.

As for 9/1/11, the AE was Stable at 9 members. Has considered adding a 10th. AE membership is expected to remain as is unless there were some drastic changes to conferences like the A10 or CAA.

Boston University Conference Realignment

Boston University

BU is considered to be an option for the CAA should they lose any non-football members. They are also a longshot option for the A10 should any other teams leave.

University of New Hampshire Conference Realignment

New Hampshire

little interest from other conferences. But in some scenarios, if the CAA were to face a large exodus, the conference might consider a pair of UNH and Maine to be able to keep football, provide travel ease for Northeastern or other future northern CAA members. It’s a longshot scenario at best.

University of Maryland Balitmore County Conference Realignment

UMBC

Moved to the AE from the NEC in 2003. Could be a longshot CAA candidate if they were to lose schools to the A10 and FBS in a mass exodus.

University at Albany Conference Realignment

Albany

little interest from other conferences.

Could be targeted by the CAA (or a new America East or A10 football sponsorship if they upgraded.)

Binghamton University Conference Realignment

Binghamton

little interest from other conferences.

Hartford University Conference Realignment

Hartford

little interest from other conferences. If the CAA lost multiple members, Hartford could always be a non-football option to connect Hofstra (and likely Stonybrook in the future) to Northeastern (and possible BU in the future). Longshot scenario.

Maine University Conference Realignment

Maine

little interest from other conferences. But in some scenarios, if the CAA were to face a large exodus, the conference might consider a pair of UNH and Maine to be able to keep football, provide travel ease for Northeastern or other future northern CAA members. It’s a longshot scenario at best.

Stony Brook University Conference Realignment

Stony Brook

Big South

(Football)

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/2/12: expected to be targeted by the CAA as a replacement for Georgia St.

University of Vermont Conference Realignment

Vermont

little interest from other conferences.

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Atlantic%20Sun%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Atlantic Sun Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 12/08/11:

The Atlantic Sun has added NKU as it’s newest member.

As of 9/1/11, currently 9 schools. Member schools have added football or are considering it which could make them more attractive to other conferences in the future. Should schools leave NJIT and/or Longwood would become the most likely targets at the D-I level or the conference could turn to D-II for upgrades.

nku Conference Realignment

North Florida

NEws: 12/08/11:
The Atlantic Sun has added NKU as it’s newest member.

University of North Florida Conference Realignment

North Florida

1/6/05: North florida will upgrade to D1 and join the Atlantic Sun in 2006.

Kennesaw State University Conference Realignment

Kennesaw St.

yellow grid Conference RealignmentPlans to add non-scholarship football in 2014.

Possible: joins the Big South

1/6/05: Kennesaw St. will upgrade to D1 and join the Atlantic Sun in 2006.

East Tennesee State University Conference Realignment

East Tenn. St.

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.

Mercer University Conference Realignment

Mercer

little interest from other conferences. Planning to add non-scholarship footbal in 2013. Will apply for Pioneer membership.

Jacksonville University Conference Realignment

Jacksonville

little interest from other conferences.

Lipscomb University Conference Realignment

Lipscomb

yellow grid Conference RealignmentHas been mentioned as a potential OVC candidate. Could add non-scholarship football.

Stetson University Conference Realignment

Stetson

little interest from other conferences.

Florida Gulf Coast Universi Conference Realignment

Florida Gulf Coast University

little interest from other conferences.

University of South Carolina UpState Conference Realignment

USC-Upstate

little interest from other conferences.

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Big%20Sky%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Big Sky Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
With the North Dakota nickname resolved, membership looks to remain as it in now.

Portland State University Conference Realignment

Portland St

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.

Southern Utah University Conference Realignment

Southern Utah

gray grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 11/1/10:

Has accepted an invitation to join the Big Sky Conference starting in 2012.

——————

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.

university of north dakota Conference Realignment

North Dakota

gray grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 11/6/10: With the Summit having conversations with Nebraska-Omaha about a future membership, the MVFC would likely have to be considered for UNO football. If the MWVC did expand to 12, UND might consider a move to the Summit and the MVFC

NEWS: 11/1/10:

Has accepted an invitation to join the Big Sky Conference starting in 2012.

——————

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.

Sacramento State University Conference Realignment

Sacramento St.

yellow grid Conference RealignmentThe Big Sky member could save some travel costs by moving to the Big West and remain a football-only member of the Big Sky, the same arrangement of UC Davis and Cal Poly. Such a move would balance the Big Sky all-sports membership at 10 rather than the awkward 11.

—————

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 University Conference Realignment

Montana

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNews: 11/11/10

Montana has rejected a WAC invitation and will remain in FCS and the 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.

Possible: joins CUSA/MWC

Montana State University Conference Realignment

Montana St.

little interest from other conferences at this point. Often considered to be “tied” to Montana = Montana will upgrade when Montana St. is ready to upgrade.

Weber State University Conference Realignment

Weber St.

little interest from other conferences.

Idaho State University Conference Realignment

Idaho St.

little interest from other conferences.

Northern Arizona University Conference Realignment

No. Arizona

little interest from other conferences. Has had to deal with a budget crisis in which the dropping of football was rumored.

Eastern Washington University Conference Realignment

Eastern Washington

little interest from other conferences.

University of Northern Colo Conference Realignment

Northern Colorado

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.

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Big South Conference Conference Realignment

 

Big South Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 1/21/12:
The Big South has added Longwood as it’s newset member.

Costal Carolina University Conference Realignment

Coastal Carolina

Coastal Carolina has long sought a SoCon or CAA invitation.

Radford University Conference Realignment

Radford

Stable. Has expressed interest in joining the Atlantic Sun

Charleston Southern University Conference Realignment

Charleston Southern

little interest from other conferences.

High Point University Conference Realignment

High Point

little interest from other conferences.

Liberty University Conference Realignment

Liberty

little interest from other conferences.

University of North Carolina Asheville Conference Realignment

NC Asheville

little interest from other conferences.

Virginia Millitary Institute Conference Realignment

VMI

little interest from other conferences.

Winthrop University Conference Realignment

Winthrop

NEWS: 7/1/2008:Winthrop considers adding footballlittle interest from other conferences.

Gardner Webb University Conference Realignment

Gardner Webb

Joined the Big South as full member in 2007.

Presbyterian College Conference Realignment

Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College upgraded to FCS and participates in the Big South

Campbell University Conference Realignment

Campbell University

gray grid Conference Realignment

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.

Longwood University Conference Realignment

Longwood

gray grid Conference Realignment

News:

1/21/12: Longwood, after upgrading in the 2003 season, is finally in a D1 home: Longwood set to join the Big South

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)

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Big%20West%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Big West Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 3/27/12:

Pacific University will join the WCC as it’s 10th member, leaving the Big West. The Big West is now set at 10 members with Hawaii and SDSU joining.

As of 12/07/11, the Big West will bring in SDSU as it’s next member as the schools football program heads to the Big East. The 11 school conference will likely remain at that number in the event that another high profile school becomes available. Should Air Force pass on the Big East, UNLV could be in the mix, and would need a non-football home such as the Big West.

As of 9/1/11, the Big West had expanded to 10 members and seemed content. UCSD applied for membership along with CSU-Bakersfield but both were denied membership. SJSU and Sac St are higher conference schools that if ever downgraded, could find a home here.

San Diego State University Conference Realignment

San Diego State

(in Big East for football)

 

News: 12/07/11:
The Big East has expanded with 3 all-sports members (UCF, Houston, SMU) and two football-only members (SDSU and Boise St.). SDSU will move to the Big West for non-football sports, Boise St. to the WAC.

News: 11/7/11:
SDSU is trying to be included in the proposed Big East expansion

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.

University of Hawaii Conference Realignment

Hawaii

(in Mountain West for Football)

gray grid Conference Realignment

NEWS: 12/10/10: Hawaii will leave the WAC after the 2011-2012 season and join the MWC for football and the Big West for all other sports.

NEWS: 11/19/20

Hawaii is expected to join the MWC as a football only member.

Old News:

Hawaii is currently a member of the WAC as of 11/16/10. They have been seeking membership in the Big West and participate as a football independent.

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.

University of California Da Conference Realignment

Cal – Davis

Big Sky

(FCS Football only)

A candidate for the Big Sky is they ever opted to join for all sports. If upgraded to FBS, WAC would be likely home.

NEWS: 9/7/10:

Will join the Big Sky as a football-only member

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”.

California Poly San Luis Obispo Conference Realignment

Cal – Poly

Big Sky

(FCS Football only)

A candidate for the Big Sky is they ever opted to join for all sports. If upgraded to FBS, WAC would be likely home.

NEWS: 9/7/10:

Will join the Big Sky as a football-only member

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.

California State University Fullerton Conference Realignment

Cal St. Fullerton

little interest from other conferences.

California State University Northridge Conference Realignment

Cal St. Northridge

little interest from other conferences.

Long Beach State University Conference Realignment

Long Beach St.

little interest from other conferences.

University of California Irvine Conference Realignment

UC Irvine

little interest from other conferences.

University of California Riverside Conference Realignment

UC Riverside

little interest from other conferences.

University of California Santa Barbara Conference Realignment

UC Santa Barbara

little interest from other conferences.

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Colonial%20Athletic%20Association Conference Realignment

 

CAA Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 5/17/12:

ODU and CUSA made it official: ODU will join CUSA in 2013.

On 5/14/12, the CAA lost yet another member, followign Georgia St. as VCU will be joining the A10 in 2013. ODU is also expected to leave for CUSA.

As of 5/12/12, While Georgia St. is leaving, ODU still expected to leave, GMU has decided to remain in the CAA. It is unknown as of 5/11/12, if VCU will move to the A10 to be member #14.

As of 5/1/12, in addition to Georgia St. leaving, ODU is now expected to leave to join CUSA. VCU and George Mason remain likely to join the A10 for the 2013-2014 season. But it’s the departure of OCU that will derve as a wakeup call for Delaware and JMU, two FCS football powers. It would not be surprising to see Delaware, JMU and even Appalachian St. take a look at the MAC and arrange to upgrade as football-only members. All 3 schools could likely remain in their current conferences (CAA and SoCon) for non-football sports. But in order for this upgrade to happen, it would require 1) interest by the MAC in adding these 3 schools, and 2) interest by the schools to even upgrade.

As of 4/3/12, Georgia St. has been added as the next member of the Sun Belt. Appalachian St. will likely be be a top candidate, although a move to the CAA might not be high on their list. Stony Brook would be the next likely candidate as a travel partner for Hofstra and adding a replacement football program. For some of the other scenarios, read the April 2012 CAA Expansion Article.

As of 9/1/11, membership was stable with incoming programs to offset departing ones. Could always look to the north at Fordham or Stony Brook as football-only members to appease the remaining New England schools, UNH and Maine. Others such as Charlotte would like to join for football only but have not been invited.

University of Delaware Conference Realignment

Delaware

yellow grid Conference RealignmentStable but could upgrade to FBS in future

Hofstra University Conference Realignment

Hofstra

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.

University of North Carolina Wilmington Conference Realignment

UNCW

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 University Conference Realignment

Northeastern

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.

Drexel University Conference Realignment

Drexel

little interest from other conferences.

George Mason University Conference Realignment

George Mason

orange grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 5/11/12: GMU will remain in the CAA.

News: 3/25/12: school is in discussions to join the A10

Stable, could add football at the FCs level.

James Madison University Conference Realignment

JMU

orange grid Conference RealignmentCould upgrade to FBS in future

Towson University Conference Realignment

Towson

Stable

William and Mary University Conference Realignment

William & Mary

Stable

Horizion%20League Conference Realignment

 

Horizon League Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 5/1/11:
Butler will be leaving to join the A10. The Horizon will liklely look to members from the Summit League for a replacement. IUPUI, located in Indianapolis would be a logical replacement for Butler. The conference might also consider Robert Morris, located in nearby Pittsburgh.

University of Detroit Mercy Conference Realignment

Detroit

yellow grid Conference RealignmentMentioned 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 State University Conference Realignment

Cleveland St

little interest from other conferences.

University of Illiniois Chicago Conference Realignment

Illinois (Chi.)

little interest from other conferences.

Loyola University Chicago Conference Realignment

Loyola Chi

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.

University of Wisconsin Green Bay Conference Realignment

Green Bay

little interest from other conferences.

University of Wisconsin Mil Conference Realignment

Milwaukee

little interest from other conferences.

Wright State University Conference Realignment

Wright St

little interest from other conferences.

Youngstown State University Conference Realignment

Youngstown State

little interest from other conferences. Had once considered FBS upgrade to the MAC.

Valparaiso University Conference Realignment

Valparaiso

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.”

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greatwestsmall Conference Realignment

 

Great West Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Conference likely won’t be around much longer. Texas Pan American and Houston Baptist could join the Southland conference. Would only leave Chicago State, NJIT, and Utah Valley. Conference would then add independents Longwood and CSUB if still available. All schools would jump at any opportunity to leave.

University of Texas Pan American Conference Realignment

Texas Pan American

yellow grid Conference Realignment

News: 4/29/20: With all the WAC defections, it is likely that the school is targed by the WAC as a replacement for it’s future as a non-football conference

Possible: joins the Southland as a replacement

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.

new jersey tech Conference Realignment
NJIT

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNEWS:

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.

Utah Valley University Conference Realignment

Utah Valley

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNews: 4/29/20: With all the WAC defections, it is likely that the school is targed by the WAC as a replacement for it’s future as a non-football conference

Possible: will always be a Summit League option should they lose a school.

Possible: adds football and joins the Big Sky

Longshot: joins the Southland as a non-football replacement

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.

Chicago State University Conference Realignment

Chicago St

yellow grid Conference RealignmentPossible: will always be a Summit League option should they lose a school.

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

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Ivy%20League Conference Realignment

 

Ivy League Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
As stable as stable gets. Don’t ever expect to see a school leave or expansion in the near future.

Brown University Conference Realignment

Brown

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Columbia Univesity Conference Realignment

Columbia

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Cornell University Conference Realignment

Cornell

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Dartmouth University Conference Realignment

Dartmouth

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Harvard University Conference Realignment

Harvard

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Pennsylvania University Conference Realignment

Pennsylvania

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Princeton University Conference Realignment

Princeton

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Yale University Conference Realignment

Yale

Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

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Metro%20Atlantic%20Athletic%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

MAAC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Stable at 10, no expansion imminent. MAAC schools would be candidates should drastic change happen to conference such as the A10, CAA, etc.

Siena College Conference Realignment

Siena

yellow grid Conference RealignmentThe 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 University Conference Realignment

Fairfield

CT school could be considered by the America East should they expand

Canisus College Conference Realignment

Canisius

little interest from other conferences.

Iona College Conference Realignment

Iona

little interest from other conferences.

Loyola University Conference Realignment

Loyola MD

little interest from other conferences.

Manhattan College Conference Realignment

Manhattan

little interest from other conferences.

Marist College Conference Realignment

Marist

little interest from other conferences.

Niagara University Conference Realignment

Niagara

little interest from other conferences.

Rider University Conference Realignment

Rider

little interest from other conferences.

Saint Peters College Conference Realignment

St. Peter’s

little interest from other conferences.

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Mid%20Eastern%20Athletic%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

MEAC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Historically Black College and University (HBCU) schools. Currently at 11/13 members. Could look to add one full member that plays football.

Florida A&M University Conference Realignment

Florida A&M

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 University Conference Realignment

Hampton

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 College Conference Realignment

Bethune Cookman

No interest

Coppin State University Conference Realignment

Coppin St

No interest.

Delaware State University Conference Realignment

Delaware St.

Has expressed interest in joining the Northeast Conference for all sports, with football joining the Big South. Still considering other upgrade options.

Howard University Conference Realignment

Howard

No interest

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Conference Realignment

MD Eastern Shore

No interest

Morgan State University Conference Realignment

Morgan State

No interest

North Carolina A&T University Conference Realignment

N. Carolina A&T

No interest

Norfolk State University Conference Realignment

Norfolk State

No interest

South Carolina State University Conference Realignment

South Carolina St

No interest.

Savannah State University Conference Realignment

Savannah St.

NEWS 3/10/10: Savannah St. accepts provisional membership in the MEACFCS independent HBCU could look to join the MEAC or Big South.

north carolina central Conference Realignment

NC Central St.

gray grid Conference RealignmentNewest MEAC member upon their upgrade to Division 1
Winston-Salem St.
NEWS: WSSU will return to DII7/8/04: announced they will upgrade to Division I and FCS football. Might look to join the Big South, MEAC or Southern Conference.

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Missouri%20Valley%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Missouri Valley Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Football conference stable. Chose not to add N. Dakota when S. Dakota was invited which would have given the conference all 4 Dakota schools. Could be because no 12th school materialized as likely candidate Nebraska-Omaha dropped football when they moved to D-I.

Creighton University Conference Realignment

Creighton

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 University Carbondale Conference Realignment

Southern Illinois

Despite consecutive NCAA appearances, the Salukis won’t be moving anywhere for the time being.

Bradley University Conference Realignment

Bradley

No interest.

Drake University Conference Realignment

Drake

No interest.

Evansville University Conference Realignment

Evansville

Could add non-scholarship football.

Illinois State University Conference Realignment

Illinois State

No interest.

Indiana State University Conference Realignment

Indiana State

No interest.

University of Northern Iowa Conference Realignment

Northern Iowa

No interest.

Missouri State University Conference Realignment

Missouri St.

Was approached by Sunbelt but had no interest at the time in upgrading to FBS football.

Wichita State University Conference Realignment

Wichita State

Fans often feel the school should add football to increase potential opportunities.

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Northeast%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Northeast Conference Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Could try to grab Maine and New Hampshire in football if the schools cannot stay in the Colonial. Would offer reduced scholarships and travel but would be a huge downgrade.

bryant university Conference Realignment

Bryant University

Upgraded it’s athletics to Division 1 and joined the NEC.

Central Connecticut State University Conference Realignment

Central Connecticut St.

yellow grid Conference RealignmentCould be brought into the America East should they expand.

Long Island University Conference Realignment

LIU Brooklyn

Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand.

Mount Saint Marys University Conference Realignment

Mt. St. Mary’s

Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand.

Quinnipiac University Conference Realignment

Quinnipiac

Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand.

Sacred Heart University Conference Realignment

Sacred Heart

Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand.

Farleigh Dickinson Conference Realignment

Fairleigh Dickinson

No interest.

Monmouth University Conference Realignment

Monmouth (N.J.)

No interest.

Robert Morris University Conference Realignment

Robert Morris

No interest.

saint francis college ny Conference Realignment

St. Francis (NY)

No interest.

Saint Francis University Conference Realignment

St. Francis (PA)

No interest.

Wager College Conference Realignment

Wagner

No interest.

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Ohio%20Valley%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Ohio Valley Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Rumored to be courting N. Alabama and N. Kentucky which would give them 10/14. Conference would split very nicely into north/south divisions if members wanted that.

Tennessee State University Conference Realignment

Tennessee St.

HBCU school could consider joining the SWAC.

Austin Peay State University Conference Realignment

Austin Peay

No interest.

Eastern Illinois University Conference Realignment

Eastern Illinois

No interest.

Eastern Kentucky University Conference Realignment

Eastern Kentucky

No interest.

Jacksonville State University Conference Realignment

Jacksonville St

yellow grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/19/11:

Jacksonville St. is officially exploring FBS football

Considering an upgrade to FBS football

Morehead State University Conference Realignment

Morehead State

No interest.

Murray State University Conference Realignment

Murray State

No interest.

Southeast Missouri State University Conference Realignment

SE Missouri State

No interest.

University of Tennessee Mar Conference Realignment

Tenn. Martin

No interest.

Tennessee Tech University Conference Realignment

Tennessee Tech

No interest.

siue Conference Realignment

So. Illinois – Edwardsville

6/9/2008:OVC is set to expand by adding SIUE once they upgrade to D1Upgrading to Division 1. OVC and Summit League are likely destinations.

Belmont University Conference Realignment

Belmont

grey grid Conference Realignment5/12/2011: OVC is set to expand by adding Belmontfor the 2012-2013 season.Belmont has for years been on the OVC radar as the conference has a number of other Tennessee schools.

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Patriot%20League Conference Realignment

 

Patriot League Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Stable. Fordham could leave if the school wanted to begin offering scholarships in football.

College of the Holy Cross Conference Realignment

Holy Cross

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 University Conference Realignment

American

Staying put in the Patriot.

Bucknell University Conference Realignment

Bucknell

Staying put in the Patriot.

Colgate University Conference Realignment

Colgate

Staying put in the Patriot.

Lafayette College Conference Realignment

Lafayette

Staying put in the Patriot.

Lehigh University Conference Realignment

Lehigh

Staying put in the Patriot.

United States Millitary Academy Conference Realignment

Army

(see FBS listing above in “Independents”)

United States Naval Academy Conference Realignment

Navy

(see FBS listing above in “Independents”)

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Southern%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Southern Conference Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
Very stable conference. Would likely only consider expansion if a member (Appalachian State) moved to FBS.

Georgia Southern University Conference Realignment

Georgia Southern

orange grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/2/12: With Georgia St. leaving the CAA, the school could be on that conferences radar.

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

University of Tennessee Chattanooga Conference Realignment

UT-Chattanooga

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 University Conference Realignment

Western Carolina

NEWS: 4/2/12: With Georgia St. leaving the CAA, the school could be on that conferences radar.

Appalachian State University Conference Realignment

Appalachian St.

orange grid Conference RealignmentNEWS: 4/2/12: With Georgia St. leaving the CAA, the school could be on that conferences radar.

History:

The FCS power has considered an upgrade to FBS. The MAC would be a potential option as school #14 (as of 4/2/12)

Likely: remains in the SoCon

Possible: upgrades to FBS and joins CUSA, MAC or Sunbelt

Longshot: remains in FCS but joins the CAA

College of Charleston Conference Realignment

Charleston

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.

University of North Carolina Greensboro Conference Realignment

NC Greensboro

No interest.

Davidson College Conference Realignment

Davidson

No interest.

Elon University Conference Realignment

Elon University

No interest. Joined in 2004 from Big South.

The Citadel Conference Realignment

The Citadel

No interest.

Furman University Conference Realignment

Furman

No interest.

Samford University Conference Realignment

Samford

Joined the OVC in 2003 from independent status. Now in the SoCon

Wofford College Conference Realignment

Wofford

No interest.

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Southland%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

Southland Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 11/21/11:

The newest addition to the Southland is Houston Baptist. The school will add football, becoming the 9th football member of the conference and 11th overall.

As of 10/24/11, Oral Roberts has announced they would be leaving the Summit for the Southland Conference.

Status as of 9/30/11:

Has lost a number of members to the WAC and could lose more in the future. Would need to look to D-II’s Lonestar or Gulf South conferences for replacements. Conference has publicly stated there is support for a 10th school.

As of 9/30/11, Oral Roberts and the Southland had had initial discussions regarding membership.

Lamar University Conference Realignment

Lamar

orange grid Conference RealignmentFCS football school has aspirations to upgrade to FBS.Possible: joins WAC

Stephen F Austin University Conference Realignment

Stephen F. Austin

No interest.

Sam Houston State University Conference Realignment

Sam Houston St.

orange grid Conference RealignmentNews: 11/27/07:

Internal committee is in favor of a FBS (formerly I-A) upgrade.

Possible: Joins WAC

Northwestern State University Conference Realignment

Northwestern St

No interest.

Nichols State University Conference Realignment

Nicholls State

No interest.

McNeese St Conference Realignment

McNeese St.

Has a top quality FCS program and could upgrade to FBS if the school wanted to. Has not expressed any real interest thus far.

Southeasten Louisana University Conference Realignment

SE Louisiana

Brought back football last year and joined the Southland in 2005

Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Conference Realignment

Texas A&M – CC

Joined the Southland in 2006.

Central Arkansas Conference Realignment

Central Arkansas

Upgraded to FCS football and Div. 1 and joined the Southland in ’06.

Oral Roberts University Conference Realignment

Oral Roberts

gray grid Conference RealignmentNews: 10/24/11: Oral Roberts will be leaving the Summit League to move to the Southland Conference.

History:

Could move to the Southland to replace UTSA. As of 9/30/11, Oral Roberts and the Southland had had initial discussions regarding membership.

houston baptist university Conference Realignment Houston Baptist

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 11/17/11: HBU will join the Southland Conference, adding football at a later date and serving as the 11th all-sports member and 9th football school.

History:
Possible: will always be a Summit League option should they lose a school.

Longshot: joins the Southland as a replacement

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

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Sothwestern%20Athletic%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

SWAC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 9/1/11:
HBCUs that struggle to compete in D-I. Had invited Tennessee State, but conference has struggled to make it financially and academically in D-I.

Alabama A&M University Conference Realignment

Alabama A&M

Stable conference with little movement.

Alabama State University Conference Realignment

Alabama State

Stable conference with little movement.

Alcorn State University Conference Realignment

Alcorn State

Stable conference with little movement.

University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Conference Realignment

Ark Pine Bluff

Stable conference with little movement.

Grambling State University Conference Realignment

Grambling

Stable conference with little movement.

Jackson State University Conference Realignment

Jackson State

Stable conference with little movement.

Mississippi Valley State Un Conference Realignment

Miss. Valley St.

Stable conference with little movement.

Prairie View A&M University Conference Realignment

Prairie View

Stable conference with little movement.

Southern University Conference Realignment

Southern

Stable conference with little movement.

Texas Southern University Conference Realignment

Texas Southern

Stable conference with little movement.

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summit league Conference Realignment

 

Summit League Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 10/24/11:

Oral Roberts has announced they would be leaving the Summit for the Southland Conference.

Status as of 9/30/11:

Has reduced conference footprint greatly. Happy at 10 members but Oral Roberts could consider leaving for more regional Southland conference. In fact, as of 9/30/11, Oral Roberts and the Southland had had initial discussions regarding membership.

University of Missouri Kansas City Conference Realignment

UMKC

The Kansas City market could be enough to open the eyes of a few conferences such as Southland if they need replacements.

Indiana University Purdue Indianapolis Conference Realignment

IUPUI

No interest

Oakland University Conference Realignment

Oakland

No interest

Western Illinois University Conference Realignment

Western Illinois

No interest now but could be an OVC target.

North Dakota State University Conference Realignment

North Dakota St.

Longshot: joins the MVC as a full member

Longshot: if Summit membership suffers and the Big Sky loses schools, they could be brought in by the Big sky to unite all 4 Dakota schools.

——–

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 State University Conference Realignment

South Dakota St.

Longshot: joins the MVC as a full member

Longshot: if Summit membership suffers and the Big Sky loses schools, they could be brought in by the Big sky to unite all 4 Dakota schools.

——————

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.

university of south dakota2 Conference Realignment

South Dakota

grey grid Conference RealignmentLongshot: joins the MVC as a full member

Longshot: if Summit membership suffers and the Big Sky loses schools, they could be brought in by the Big sky to unite all 4 Dakota schools.

NEWS 11/4/10:

In a last second move, South Dakota has received an invitation from the MVFC to join as a football member. USD will remain in the Summit League.

—————–

NEWS: 11/1/10:

Will likely accept an invitation to join the Big Sky Conference once they finalize an exit strategy from the Summit League.

——————

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.

Indiana University Purdue Fort Wayne Conference Realignment

IPFW

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.

UniversityOfNebraskaOmaha Conference Realignment

Nebraska – Omaha

grey grid Conference RealignmentNews: 3/13/11:Nebraska – Omaha will drop football and upgrade to Division 1, joining the Summit League. The move makes sense on a number of levels. However, it is surprising to see them drop football. Had they kept football, the Summit would have likely worked with the MVFC to get UNO membership. That move might have opened the door for North Dakota to remain in the Summit and join the MVFC too.

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West%20Coast%20Conference Conference Realignment

 

WCC Expansion & Realignment

Status as of 3/27/12:

Pacific University will join the WCC as it’s 10th member.

As of 9/1/11, the WCC was a stable at 9 members. Seattle University would jump at membership but conference is not interested. BYU will be a question mark until the Big 12 is actually at 12 members.

Pacific University Conference Realignment

Pacific

NEWS: 3/27/12: Pacific will join the WCC as it’s 10th member

History: could be a WCC option should they seek another southern member.

Brigham Young University Conference Realignment

BYU

Independent (Football)

gray grid Conference RealignmentJoined on 9/1/2010 with football participating as an FBS independent..

Gonzaga University Conference Realignment

Gonzaga

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

 Conference Realignment

Loyola Marymont

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

Pepperdine University Conference Realignment

Pepperdine

Stable within the WCC, but as a California school, could seek Big West membership if it were ever an improvement.

 Conference Realignment

Portland

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

 Conference Realignment

San Diego

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

 Conference Realignment

San Francisco

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

 Conference Realignment

Santa Clara

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC. Has a football movement.

Saint Marys University Conference Realignment

St. Mary’s – CA

Stable within the conference, few options outside the WCC.

Dropped football in 2004

ncaa Conference Realignment
Independent Expansion & Realignment

csu baskersfield Conference Realignment

Cal St Bakersfield

orange grid Conference Realignment

News: 4/29/20: With all the WAC defections, it is likely that the school is targed by the WAC as a replacement for it’s future as a non-football conference

11/29/10: CSUB has applied to the Big West

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.

University of New Orelans Conference Realignment

orange grid Conference RealignmentNews: 3/8/12: UNO Has Opted to Rejoin Division 1

3/1/20/10: 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.

 

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ncaa Conference Realignment
Division 2 & NAIA Upgrades Expansion
Bellarmine
Division 2
considering upgrade, could be a fit in the Summit
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
UCSDorange grid Conference Realignment
Division 2
considering upgrade, has applied to D1 Big West and been rejected. Student vote on D1 athletics has shown less support than thought.
Valdosta St.
Division 2
considering upgrade
UM – St. Louis
Division 2
Almost ready to upgrade to D1 and scheduling tougher opponents. Could be a fit for Summit
North Alabama orange grid Conference Realignment
Division 2
Could upgrade to Division 1, FCS and look to the Big South, OVC or even Southland.

U Incarnate Wordorange grid Conference Realignment

Division 2
12/09/11: School expected to upgrade to D-1 in the near future and join Southland
Delta St.
Division 2
The southern school could upgrade to FCS in the future and would look conferences such as the Southland.
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.

NKU

Division 2
Planning to upgrade to D1 per 4/8/11 news
Oklahoma City University
NAIA

NAIA school

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
Lemoyne
Division 2
Update: 2/19/10: committee recommends remaining in D2Looking to upgrade to DI. America East could be their new home.
Grand Canyon
NAIA

NAIA school

considering upgrade and adding football

Harding
Division 2
Could upgrade to Division I

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FCS Football-Only Conferences: Expansion & RealignmentFBS 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.
Big%20South%20Conference Conference Realignment
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 Brookyellow grid Conference Realignment America East
Colonial%20Athletic%20Association Conference Realignment
CAA FOOTBALL Expansion & Realignment
Delawareyellow grid Conference Realignment CAA ODU and Georgia St. are the newest members of the conference and will essentially replace Hofstra and Northeastern.Villanova is of 11/16/10 still an option to upgrade to FBS and join the Big East.A number of CAA schools are on the radar as potential FBS options: JMU, Delaware, GA State, ODU and UMass.News:

URI will likely join the NEC in 2012, leaving the CAA

James Madisonyellow grid Conference Realignment CAA
Towson CAA
William & Mary CAA
Villanovaorange grid Conference Realignment Big East
New Hampshire America East
Maine America East
Richmond A10
UMassorange grid Conference Realignment A10
* ODUgray grid Conference Realignment CAA
* Georgia Stgray grid Conference Realignment CAA
Missouri%20Valley%20Conference Conference Realignment
Missouri Valley Expansion & Realignment
Illinois St. MVC

NEWS: 11/1/10:

The MVFC has added South Dakota as it’s 10th member, a move that has also kept USD in the Summit for other sports. North Dakota was unable to get the same deal and since has moved to the Big Sky for all sports.

The MVFC had expressed interest in membership of 10 schools or 12, but not 11. If Nebraska-Omaha is to upgrade and join the Summit, the Summit will likely push to get UNO included in the MVFC. Such a move might open the door for UND to join as well.

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
Youngstown St. Horizon
North Dakota St. Summit
South Dakota St. Summit
South Dakotagray grid Conference Realignment Summit
greatwestsmall Conference Realignment
Great West Expansion & Realignment
Cal Poly Big Sky

UPDATE: 11/1/10:

With SUU and UND headed to the Big Sky and USD to the MVFC, the Great West Football Conference will cease operations.

UPDATE: 9/8/10:

UC Davis and Cal Poly have left the Great West to join the Big Sky as affiliate football members. This move might open the door for Sacramento St. to join the Big West for non-football sports and Southern Utah to join the Big Sky for all sports.

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 Big Sky
UC Davis Big Sky
North Dakota Big Sky
South Dakota MVFC
fcs Conference Realignment
FCS Football independents Realignment
Northeast%20Conference Conference Realignment
Northeast Expansion & Realignment
Central Connecticut St. NEC

News:

URI will join in 2013 and leave the CAA.

The NEC football conference became even more stable with the addition of Duquesne.

Rhode Island NEC
Monmouth NEC
Robert Morris NEC
Sacred Heart NEC
St. Francis (PA) NEC
Wagner NEC
Albany America East
Duquesne Atlantic 10
Patriot%20League Conference Realignment
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
Fordhamyellow grid Conference Realignment A10
pioneer Conference Realignment
Pioneer League Expansion & Realignment
Butler Horizon

A collection of non-scholarship football programs.

Dayton could be an option for the Patriot League for football.

Past News:

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 Horizon
Campbellgray grid Conference Realignment Atlantic Sun
Marist MAAC
Metro%20Atlantic%20Athletic%20Conference Conference Realignment
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

NEWS: 11/18/07:

LaSalle has announced they will officially drop football.

  • DuckNation

    I would like to see Montana, Montana State, UC Davis, Cal Poly, and Idaho State join the WAC to keep it alive!

  • Matt Schubert

    I agree that the CAA would foster some great regional rivalries.  A group of CAA schools committed to making the move to FCS would be even more interesting.  Coastal Carolina and App State would also appear to make sense for the CAA .  ODU and either VCU or GMU moving appear very likely at this point.  (particularly in the 2nd scenario where they join an expanded WAC to move up together)

  • Matt Schubert

    I agree that the CAA would foster some great regional rivalries.  A group of CAA schools committed to making the move to FCS would be even more interesting.  Coastal Carolina and App State would also appear to make sense for the CAA .  ODU and either VCU or GMU moving appear very likely at this point.  (particularly in the 2nd scenario where they join an expanded WAC to move up together)

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001806931483 Robert Schonfeld

     you bring up an interesting point as long you get Texas and Texas Tech due they are longshots .Oklahoma ,Oklahoma State are also longshots too but let’s not discount Tulsa they should be considered tooas long as we are on the subject Arizona and Arizona State could use New Mexico and New Mexico State which would benefit them as for Colorado.Colorado State or Northern Colorado might be the answer there.Utah has issues of their own

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001806931483 Robert Schonfeld

     you bring up an interesting point as long you get Texas and Texas Tech due they are longshots .Oklahoma ,Oklahoma State are also longshots too but let’s not discount Tulsa they should be considered tooas long as we are on the subject Arizona and Arizona State could use New Mexico and New Mexico State which would benefit them as for Colorado.Colorado State or Northern Colorado might be the answer there.Utah has issues of their own

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001806931483 Robert Schonfeld

    i think the pioneer football league needs to revamp itself and the independents too.Plus the non committed schools as well when they should be totally committed in both sports.

  • http://twitter.com/PickSix Jeff Grubb

    Love the logos for each school…very cool.

  • Hoya33

    tough place,media addition limited and travel into and out of East Carolina is awful.

  • Hoya33

    Matt that is a great thought for the CAA,I think it would be a great addition to the CAA based on the things you pointed out,some rivals already in place.

  • Matt Schubert

    Surprised not to see more news/interest associated with Liberty – they are the fastest growing school in FCS, top 10 in FCS Football Attendance, top 75 in the country in TV Market, top 50 amongst all FBS & FCS schools in assets, they have one of the largest stadiums in FCS and have announced expansion plans, they have their own TV network & regional multi-state sports radio network, attracted multiple former FBS coaches (Gill, Torbush, etc), they will exceed 100,000 students (combined online and on-campus) in the coming year; the FCS Conference that picks them up will be getting a steal.

  • Atlanta_Mafia

    I think that they are holding some sort of academic issue against ECU?

  • trojans

    i think texas ,texas tech, ok st and ok should join the pac 12 being its going to happen so why wait and then invite new mex ,co st and see whats left to pick at in the ncaafb schools !

  • http://collegesportsinfo.com CollegeSportsInfo.com

    You can follow the The Official “Why ECU is not in the Big East” Thread

  • Pettitsc

    The Big East is basically trying to keep it’s head above water and I wish them good luck.They will figure it out. That being said, I have no idea why they ignored East Carolina, but I’m so glad they did. East Carolina is much better than that. Quite frankly, they would be a perfect fit for the SEC. Why? Because East Carolina is the second largest university in North Carolina. Their average attendance is 50,000 people and they are ready to add on to their stadium. Even more important is the fact that they would be bringing a huge audience from North Carolina, Virginia and the DC area that otherwise, are basically ACC fans. Their impact in recruiting in those areas would be down-right scary for the ACC. East Carolina is really growing and great things are in store for them. It’s going to be fun to watch their ride.

  • Charlesderrick1

    What does the Big East have against East Carolina University?????

  • Espnfreak

    Nicely done whoever formed this all together. Seriously, good job!

  • Bruno

    Temple will be in Big East for all sports.  Football for 2012, basketball by 2013?

  • Bruno

    Temple will be in Big East for all sports.  Football for 2012, basketball by 2013?

  • Mpat121

    Western Athletic Conference conference… redundancy, anyone?

  • Dustymeyers123

    Not completely accurate but a great read just the same. Thanks for the insight

  • Dustymeyers123

    Not completely accurate but a great read just the same. Thanks for the insight

  • Hert

    Big East should add Temple instead of SMU or Houston.

  • Bravesfanjas12

    Please update South Alabama’s status. They will be a full member of the SunBelt in 2012 but won’t get a chance at the conf. champ. til 2013.

  • ICEJus10

    Hi, I have to question the Notre Dame comment, “Interesting times for Notre Dame. With the Big East falling apart and their rebuilding plans less than desirable for Notre Dame.”  I find that interesting, considering it was Notre Dame who sponsored the bylaw changes to stiffen the exit penalties for all members (football and non-football playing) and to rally unanimous approval for it and conference expansion.  Plus, athletic director Jack Swarbrick is the head of the Big East Expansion Committee — So if Notre Dame doesn’t like something, it’s their own guy who is at fault.  Both Swarbrick and President Rev. John Jenkins are on record as committed to growing their relationship with the Big East. 

  • http://collegesportsinfo.com CollegeSportsInfo.com

    Plenty of new updates added today…

  • http://matt.peloquin.info Matt Peloquin

    Belmont moved from Atlantic Sun to OVC on the grid today.

  • http://matt.peloquin.info Matt Peloquin

    4/19/11:

    Some updates added. You’ll find updates for UMass with their FBS/MAC announcement. Also Jacksonville St. has officially started to explore FBS football.

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