ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The expanded Pac-12 has agreed to send a team to the New Mexico Bowl in 2012 and 2013, pending approval by the NCAA's licensing committee, to play a Mountain West opponent.

Officials made the announcement Wednesday. The bowl's executive director, Jeff Siembieda, calls it a great opportunity for football fans in New Mexico.

The Pac-10 is expanding its membership next season from 10 schools to 12, picking up Colorado and Utah.

The fifth annual New Mexico Bowl, featuring teams from the Mountain West and Western Athletic Conference, is scheduled for Dec. 18 in Albuquerque.