Pac-12 Expansion Rumors: Which Schools Could Join Next

The Pac-12 Conference has been at the center of major college football discussions following a series of high-profile departures. Once a dominant force in college athletics, the conference now faces an uncertain future. With USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington leaving for the Big Ten, and Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah heading to the Big 12, only two teams remain: Oregon State and Washington State. This has sparked widespread speculation—what’s next for the Pac-12, and which schools could potentially join to rebuild the conference?

The Urgency to Expand

With just two schools left, the Pac-12 is at a critical crossroads. Without expansion, the conference risks being left behind in the rapidly shifting college sports landscape. Maintaining Power Five status is crucial for media rights deals, bowl game selections, and overall competitiveness. If the conference hopes to survive, it must act fast.

The key challenge? Finding schools that not only fit geographically but also bring strong athletic programs and media value. Several options have emerged as potential additions.

Potential Expansion Candidates

1. San Diego State – One of the most frequently mentioned schools in expansion talks, San Diego State offers a strong football and basketball program, a presence in the Southern California market, and a brand-new stadium. The Aztecs were previously linked to a Pac-12 move, but uncertainty within the conference caused hesitation.
2. SMU – Located in Dallas, SMU would give the Pac-12 a presence in Texas, a football-rich state. The Mustangs have shown commitment to athletic investments and were heavily considered by the Pac-12 before the exodus of teams.
3. Boise State – The Broncos have long been a powerhouse in the Mountain West and could bring strong football tradition to the conference. However, concerns over market size and overall athletic funding may complicate a potential move.
4. Fresno State – Another Mountain West contender, Fresno State has solid football and basketball programs and could help maintain the Pac-12’s presence in California.
5. Tulane – A wildcard option, Tulane brings strong academics and a rising football program. While geographically distant from the West Coast, its market in New Orleans could offer new opportunities.
6. UNLV – The Las Vegas market has become a growing hub for college and professional sports. With Allegiant Stadium and potential financial backing, UNLV could be an intriguing addition despite historically weaker football performance.

Could the Pac-12 Merge Instead?

With so few teams remaining, some experts believe the Pac-12 may not expand at all but instead merge with another conference. A potential partnership with the Mountain West has been floated, as it would allow Oregon State and Washington State to join an established conference rather than attempt to rebuild the Pac-12 from scratch.

The American Athletic Conference (AAC) has also been mentioned as a potential merger partner, though geography remains a challenge.

Media Rights and Financial Challenges

One of the biggest obstacles to expansion is the lack of a lucrative media rights deal. When major networks like ESPN and Fox negotiated with the Pac-12 in previous years, they were looking at a conference with major brands like USC and Oregon. Now, with just Oregon State and Washington State remaining, media value has plummeted.

A new media deal will be essential to attracting expansion candidates. Schools like San Diego State and SMU may hesitate to join unless they can secure financial stability and exposure.

The Road Ahead

As the 2025 season approaches, the future of the Pac-12 remains in limbo. Expansion seems like the most logical move to keep the conference alive, but the choices are limited. Whether through adding new schools or merging with an existing conference, the Pac-12 will need a clear plan—and soon.

For now, fans and analysts are left watching and waiting. Will the Pac-12 rise again, or is it the end of an era? The next few months could determine the fate of what was once one of college football’s most prestigious conferences.

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