FBS Football Conferences

ACC Expansion & Realignment: Status as of 11/27/12: Louisville will join the ACC in 2014 as the 14th member, replacing Maryland. As of 11/14/12, the ACC faced a setback on 11/14/12 when founding member Maryland planned their move to the Big Ten. The conference will likely look to Louisville or Uconn to join as the 14th member, a replacement for Maryland. As of 9/12/12, Notre Dame will join the ACC as the 15th member of the conference, but will not join for football. The ACC also announced a $50 million exit fee plan, which will discourage members from leaving. As for 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.

Louisville News: 11/27/12:

Louisville will join the ACC in 2014 as the14th member, replacing Maryland. News: 11/14/12:

Louisville is a candidate to join the ACC as the #14 member. 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: 10/20/11:

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). 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. HISTORY:

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”.

Notre Dame Ind (Football) ACC (BB) News: 9/12/12:

Notre Dame will join the ACCas the 15th member of the conference, but will not join for football. News: 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. 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.

Syracuse News: 7/16/12: Syracuse will leave the Big East a year early, joining the ACC, with an exit fee of $7.5 million. News: 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 16with 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”.

Pittsburgh News: 7/18/12: Pitt will leave the Big East a year early, joining the ACC, with an exit fee of $7.5 million. News: 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 16with 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 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 No 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 Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC. Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

With Maryland off to the Big Ten, Florida St. could revisit their options such as the Big 12. History: No 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

No intentions of leaving the 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 or Big 12 expanded, they could be a candidate.

NC State Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC. Long shot: if the SEC expanded, they could be a candidate.

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.

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 Very stable. No intentions of leaving the 12 team ACC. Long shot: if the SEC expanded beyond 12, they could be a candidate.

Virginia Tech 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 timesexpressing 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.

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

Wichita State

(non-football member) News: 4/7/2017: Wichita St. is leaving the Missouri Valley Conference to Join the American Athletic Conference as a non-football member HISTORY:

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

Tulsa News: 3/26/13: Tulsa will join the conference as the 11th all-sports member, 12th for football while ECU will be “promoted” to an all-sports member. News: 11/27/12: Comfortable in CUSA but at this point, coud be a future Big East candidate.

East Carolina News: 3/26/13: Tulsa will join the conference as the 11th all-sports member, 12th for football while ECU will be “promoted” to an all-sports member. News: 11/27/12: The Big East has expanded by adding Tulane for all-sports and ECU for football only. ECU still needs to fie a temporary home for non-football sports. History: 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

Tulane News: 11/27/12: The Big East has expanded by adding Tulane for all-sports and ECU for football only. History: 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.

Temple News: 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.

Navy (Patriot for Basketball) 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.

Memphis News: 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.

SMU News: 12/31/12: With Boise St. remaining in the Mountain West as #11, the conference is expected to consider further expansion from a group including SDSU, Houston, SMU, UTEP and BYU. News: 12/07/11: The Big East has expandedwith 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.

Central Florida News: 12/07/11: The Big East has expandedwith 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

Houston News: 12/31/12: With Boise St. remaining in the Mountain West as #11, the conference is expected to consider further expansion from a group including SDSU, Houston, SMU, UTEP and BYU. News: 12/07/11: The Big East has expandedwith 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.

Cincinnati News: 11/27/12: Cincinnati is considered an ACC expansion candidate at this time. Could 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

South Florida Could be member of a football conference following a potential future split of the Big East. If any ACC team in Florida left, could be a target their as well.

Jump to the Catholic 7 section for the current Big East non-football schools

Big Ten Expansion & Realignment Status as of 11/14/12: The Big Ten has expanded to 14, adding Rutgers and Maryland. As of 9/1/11, all was 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.

Maryland News: 11/14/12: The Big Ten has expanded to 14, adding Rutgers and Maryland. History: Rumored 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.

Rutgers News: 11/14/12: Rutgers was holding out hope that the ACC will send them a life raft as #16 with Uconn as #15. Instead of a life raft from the ACC, Rutgers got a cruise ship via an inviation from the Big Ten. 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”.

Illinois Very stable.

Indiana Very stable.

Iowa Very stable.

Michigan Very stable.

Michigan State Very stable.

Minnesota Very stable.

Nebraska News: 6/11/10: Nebraska has accepted an invitation to become the 12th member of the Big Ten, leaving the Big 12. ————————————————————- News: 6/9/10: Rumored to have accepted Big Ten invite Considered a necessary component for the Big 12 to remain intact.

Northwestern Very stable.

Ohio State Very stable.

Penn State Very stable.

Purdue Very stable.

Wisconsin Very stable.

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 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 HISTORY:

The school has made strong strides in recent years to find stability after a basketball scandal. 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Texas 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.

News: 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. 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 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 News: 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 12to 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 12to 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. HISTORY:

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

Western Kentucky News: 3/30/13: WKU will leave the Sun Belt to join Conference USA for the 2014 season. 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

Florida Atlantic News: 11/28/12: Florida Atlantic and Middle Tennessee St. will join CUSA, replacing Tulane and ECU History: 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

Middle Tennessee St. News: 11/28/12: Florida Atlantic and Middle Tennessee St. will join CUSA, replacing Tulane and ECU 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

Southern Miss News: 11/27/12: Comfortable in CUSA but at this point, coud be a future Big East candidate.

UAB News:

6/1/15: UAB will reinstate football, expected to return in 2016. 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. HISTORY:

11/27/12: Comfortable in CUSA but at this point, coud be a future Big East candidate.

Marshall News: 11/27/12: Comfortable in CUSA but at this point, coud be a future Big East candidate.

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

UTEP News: 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.

News: 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

Louisiana Tech News: 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

Florida International

News: 4/20/12: Florida International will join CUSA in 2013.

North Texas News: 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.

Charlotte News: 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 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.

San Diego State News: 1/16/13: SDSU has opted to remain in the Mountain West, passing on joining the Big East for football and Big West for other sports. News: 12/31/12: With Boise St. remaining in the Mountain West as #11, the conference is expected to consider further expansion from a group including SDSU, Houston, SMU, UTEP and BYU. 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.

Boise State News: 12/31/12: Boise St. has opted to remain in the Mountain West and will not join the Big East for football and Big West for other sports. News: 8/24/12: Boise St. has joined the Big West for non-football sports, effective 8/1/13. 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 expandedwith 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.

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 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

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

Fresno State News: 8/19/10: The school has accepted in invitation to join the Mountain West conference starting in 2012. If and when the Mountain West expands, Fresno State could be on their list. The question will be how many teams. Word out of the MWC is that they are taking a careful approach to expansion, and 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.

Nevada News: 8/19/10: The school has accepted in invitation to join the Mountain West conference starting in 2012. Should the MWC expand, Nevada could be an option for the #12th spot…there aren’t too many candidates other than Fresno, Hawaii, Boise St., UTEP.

Hawaii (Football-only) 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.

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 The least likely MWC school to leave the conference.

Utah State 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 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

Division 1 Independent Realignment Status as of 2/16/2017: As of 2/16/2017, Liberty to updgrade to FBS football As of 3/26/14, UMass will be leaving the MAC, it’s home for football, following the 2015 season. As of 9/12/12, Notre Dame will join the ACC as the 15th member of the conference, but will not join for football. 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.

Connecticut NEWS: 6/27/19:

UConn has left the American Athletic Conference and rejoined the Big East. The football program is expected to participate as an independent until they can find another football conference to join.



Liberty Liberty News: 2/16/2017: Liberty to updgrade to FBS football News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA for Liberty should they upgrade to FBS. History:

Little interest from other conferences, considering FBS upgrade

UMass A10 (non-football sports) News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA for UMass. 3/26/14: UMass will be leaving the MAC, it’s home for football, following the 2015 season. 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.

BYU Ind (Football) WCC (non-football sports) BYU is located in the WCC section, their home for non-football sports.

Army Ind (Football) Patriot (non-football sports) Army is located in the Patriot League section, their home for non-football sports.

Notre Dame Ind (Football) ACC (non-football sports) Notre Dame is located in the ACC section, their home for non-football sports

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.

Akron Not a viable candidate at this time.

Ball St. Not a viable candidate at this time.

Bowling Green Not a viable candidate at this time.

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 Not a viable candidate at this time.

Eastern Michigan Not a viable candidate at this time.

Kent St. Not a viable candidate at this time.

Miami (OH) Not a viable candidate at this time.

Northern Illinois Not a viable candidate at this time.

Ohio Not a viable candidate at this time.

Toledo Not a viable candidate at this time.

Western Michigan Not a viable candidate at this time.

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.

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

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

California Very stable.

Colorado News: 6/10/10:Colorado has officially joined the Pac-10, leaving the Big 12 ————————————————————- News: 6/9/10: Part of a reported 6 teams in the Big 12 that could defect to the Pac-10. Stable and content in the Big 12. Was approached by the PAC 10 during the 90s regarding expansion (along with Texas) but did not make the move. If approached again, perhaps they would listen. They would provide the PAC 10 access to the Denver market, which would fit nicely into their current domination of the LA, Phoenix, San Fran, Portland, Seattle markets.

Oregon Very stable.

Oregon St Very stable.

Stanford Very stable.

UCLA Very stable.

USC Very stable.

Utah News: 6/15/10: Utah Joins Pac-10 News 6/13/10: Utah is expected to be invited as the 12th member of the Pac-10. ———————— Possible: could be a candidate if the Pac 10 expanded to 12. Would provide the Salt Lake City market Long shot: if the Big 12 needed replacements and the Pac-10 weren’t an option, Utah (and BYU) could be attractive candidates.

Washington Very stable.

Washington St Very stable.

SEC Expansion & Realignment Status as of 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.

Missouri 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.

Alabama Very stable.

Arkansas Very stable but could always 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 Very stable.

Florida Very stable.

Georgia Very stable.

Kentucky Very stable.

LSU Very stable.

Mississippi Very stable.

Mississippi St. Very stable.

South Carolina Very stable.

Tennessee Very stable.

Vanderbilt Very stable.

Texas A&M News: 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.

Coastal Carolina News: 9/1/15: The Sun Belt Conference will expand with Coastal Carolina as an all-sports member in 2016, with it’s football program joining in 2017 after upgrading from FCS to FBS. Coastal Carolina has long sought a SoCon or CAA invitation.

Appalachian St. News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where Appalachian St. could be a candidate. News: 3/25/13: Appalachian State & Georgia Southern to Join Sun Belt and Idaho and New Mexico St. will join as Football Only Members News: 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

Georgia St News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where Georgia St. could be a candidate. News: 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.

Arkansas St News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where Arkansas St. could be a candidate. 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.

La. – Lafayette News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where ULL could be a candidate. 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 News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where Troy could be a candidate. History: 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

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

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

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.

News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football . This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA where Texas St. could be a candidate. :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 themD) 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

Texas-Arlington News: 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 UTRGV (formerly UTPA) says much about their conference stability. Even more telling is that UTRGV (formerly 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.

FCS Football and Non-football Division 1 Conferences

Davidson News: 5/7/13: Davidson will join the Atlantic 10 for the 2014-2015 season. History: Davidson rejected previous overtures from the CAA to remain in the Southern Conference. If Davidson were to leave, it would need to be for a larger revenue conference such as the Atlantic 10.

George Mason News: 3/23/13: To replace the losses of Xavier and Butler, the A10 has added George Mason for July 1, 2013. News: 5/11/12: After being passed over by the A10 in favor of Butler and VCU, GMU will remain in the CAA. News: 3/25/12: school is in discussions to join the A10 but no formal invitation is expected. Stable, could add football at the FCS level.

VCU News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. 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.

St. Louis News: 2/28/13: With the Catholic 7 set to split from the Big East and retain the Big East name, Xavier and Butler are expected to join as members #8 and #9. #10 is likely to be either Creighton, Dayton, St. Louis or Richmond. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. Would be an appealing option should the Big East split into 2 conferences. Could be looking at the MVC if they no longer feel the A10 to be ideal.

Dayton News: 2/28/13: With the Catholic 7 set to split from the Big East and retain the Big East name, Xavier and Butler are expected to join as members #8 and #9. #10 is likely to be either Creighton, Dayton, St. Louis or Richmond. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. History: Great fan support, facilities and market. Would be one of the top options for a basketball-only Big East. Possible: joins with the Big East basketball schools should they split from the football schools in 2010.

Duquesne News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. History: 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 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 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 Offers Philadelphia market, but unlikely to move. Could be ousted from the A10 if the league wanted to make room for more attractive schools. Long shot: ousted from A10, joins Horizon, MVC, MAAC, Patriot, America East.

Richmond News: 2/28/13: With the Catholic 7 set to split from the Big East and retain the Big East name, Xavier and Butler are expected to join as members #8 and #9. #10 is likely to be either Creighton, Dayton, St. Louis or Richmond. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. History: Richmond market; could get interest by the Big East non-football schools in years to come. Likely: remains in A10

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

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.

UMass MAC

(Football only) News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football . This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA for UMass. News: 3/26/14: UMass will be leaving the MAC , it’s home for football, following the 2015 season. 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

URI News: 7/16/12: For football-only, but if the CAA brings in Albany and Stony Brook, URI is expected to remain in the CAA and not move to the NEC. History: 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.

America East Expansion & Realignment Status as of 2/14/13: Umass Lowell will join the America East, upgrading from Division 2. As of 6/15/12, The Patriot League has added Boston University for the 2013 season. The AE will likely look nearby at schools such as Central Connecticut St., Bryant, Quinnipiac and Monmouth as replacement. 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.

UMass Lowell News: 2/14/13:

Umass Lowell will join the America East, upgrading from Division 2.

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.

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.

Albany (CAA Football) News: 7/17/12: Albany is being considered for a football-only spot in the CAA. History: little interest from other conferences. Could be targeted by the CAA (or a new America East or A10 football sponsorship if they upgraded.)

Binghamton little interest from other conferences.

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 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 (CAA Football) News: 9/1/12: Stony Brook will join the CAA as a football-only member News: 4/2/12: expected to be targeted by the CAA as a replacement for Georgia St.

Vermont little interest from other conferences.



Liberty Liberty News: 5/18/2018: Liberty will move from the Big South to the Atlantic Sun News: 2/16/2017: Liberty to updgrade to FBS football News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA for Liberty should they upgrade to FBS. History:

Little interest from other conferences, considering FBS upgrade

NJIT News: NJIT will join the Atlantic Sun as a replacement for Northern Kentucky. News: 12/12/12: With the NEC losing 3 schools to the MAAC, NJIT will likely be added as a replacement. News: 5/13/09: With Campbell leaving for the Big South, the Atlantic Sun might look to protect themselves by adding schools such as Longwood or NJIT. News: 7/9/08: The school might have aspirations for other conferences, but will participate in the Great West conference for all-sports. Seeking a home in the NEC.

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

Kennesaw St. News: 9/2/13: Kennesaw St. will join the Big South as a football-only member. History:

Plans 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.

Jacksonville little interest from other conferences.

Lipscomb Has been mentioned as a potential OVC candidate. Could add non-scholarship football.

Stetson little interest from other conferences.

Florida Gulf Coast University little interest from other conferences.

Idaho News: 4/27/16:

Idaho will downgrade football from FBS to FCS and participate in the Big Sky for all sports. NEWS 3/01/16:

New Mexico St. and Idaho will leave as football-only members of the Sun Belt by the 2017 season. News: 8/17/12: Idaho will join the Big Sky for the 2014 season for non-football sports and an FBS football independent and join the Big Sky for other sports. 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: June 2004: While 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

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 News: 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.

Sacramento St. The 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 News: 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 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 St. little interest from other conferences.

Idaho St. little interest from other conferences.

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 little interest from other conferences.

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.



Hampton NEWS:

11/15/17: Hampton will join the Big South for the 2018-2019 seasonHISTORY:

The Norfolk, VA MEAC school had applied to both the A10 and CAA in an attempt to maintain a FCS football home while benefiting its basketball program.



USC Upstate NEWS: 11/15/17:

11/15/17: USC Upstate will join the Big South for the 2018-2019 season

Radford Stable. Has expressed interest in joining the Atlantic Sun

Charleston Southern little interest from other conferences.

High Point little interest from other conferences.

NC Asheville Little interest from other conferences.

Winthrop News: 7/1/2008: Winthrop considers adding footballl

Gardner Webb Joined the Big South as full member in 2007.

Presbyterian College NEWS:

11/19/17:

Presbyterian College will downgrade it’s football to non-scholarship and join the Pioneer League in 2021

4/5/2006: Presbyterian College upgraded to FCS and participates in the Big South

Campbell University 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 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)

UCSD NEWS: 11/27/17:

After being rejected in 2010 and in April 2017, UCSD has been accepted by the Big West and announced plans to upgrade to Division 1 and join the Big West as it’s 10th member

CSU Bakersfield News: 11/27/17: Cal-State Bakersfield will join the Big West from the WAC News: 10/5/12: CSU Bakersfield and Utah Valley have been invited by the WAC for the 2013 season. News: 4/29/12: 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.

Hawaii (Mountain West for Football) 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.

Cal – Davis Big Sky (FCS Football only) 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”.

Cal – Poly Big Sky (FCS Football only) 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.

Cal St. Fullerton little interest from other conferences.

Cal St. Northridge little interest from other conferences.

Long Beach St. little interest from other conferences.

UC Irvine little interest from other conferences.

UC Riverside little interest from other conferences.

UC Santa Barbara little interest from other conferences.

Big East Expansion & Realignment Status as of 6/27/19: UConn has left the American Athletic Conference and rejoined the Big East. As ofr 3/20/13, the Big East has added Xavier, Butler and Creighton to expand from 7 to 10 for the upcoming season. As of 2/28/13, per reports, the 7 Catholic schools who are departing the Big East will do so and retain the Big East name. Xavier and Butler are expected to join with Creighton, St. Louis or Dayton expected to take the #10 spot. As of 2/10/13, With the 7 non-football members of the Big East set to leave in 2014 or 2015, it seems appropriate to start a section devoted to this yet unamed conference. As has been located in the Big East section for over a decade, there had been speculation…almost an expectation that 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. Now in 2013, it appears Xavier and Butler top the list as expected new members to join the conference with others such as St. Louis, Richmond, VCU, Creighton in line for any future #11 or #12 spots.

Connecticut NEWS: 6/27/19:

UConn has left the American Athletic Conference and rejoined the Big East. News: 11/14/12: Uconn is a candidate to join the ACC as the #14 member. Uconn 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

Butler News: 3/20/13: The Big East has added Xavier, Butler and Creighton to expand from 7 to 10 for the upcoming season. News: 2/28/13: With the Catholic 7 set to split from the Big East and retain the Big East name, Xavier and Butler are expected to join as members #8 and #9. #10 is likely to be either Creighton, Dayton, St. Louis or Richmond. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. News: 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.

Xavier News: 3/20/13: The Big East has added Xavier, Butler and Creighton to expand from 7 to 10 for the upcoming season. News: 2/28/13: With the Catholic 7 set to split from the Big East and retain the Big East name, Xavier and Butler are expected to join as members #8 and #9. #10 is likely to be either Creighton, Dayton, St. Louis or Richmond. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. History: Would be the top option should the Big East split into 2 conferences. Has club football. Likely: remains in the A10 Possible: Should the Big East split up, could be brought in with the non-basketball schools.

Creighton News: 3/20/13: The Big East has added Xavier, Butler and Creighton to expand from 7 to 10 for the upcoming season. News: 12/12/12: with the Big East considering a split, the school has been mentioned as a potential candidate with the current 7 Big East non-football schools. History: 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.

Villanova * 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.

DePaul * Big East non-football member

Marquette * Big East non-football member

Georgetown * Big East non-football member

Providence * Big East non-football member

Seton Hall * Big East non-football member

St. Johns * Big East non-football member

Elon University News: 5/22/13: The CAA will add Elon from the Southern Conference as it’s next member. Albany is rumored to be the next new addition despite claims from the university than no move is imminent. History: Interest from the CAA. Joined in 2004 from Big South.

Charleston News: 11/30/12: Charleston will join the CAA for the 2013 season News: 10/19/12: Charleston voted 12-5 in favor of a move to the CAA. The school will now begin negotiations with the CAA. Previously: 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. This could still change, so dont’ be shocked to see CofC move to the CAA.

Delaware Stable but could upgrade to FBS in future

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.

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 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 little interest from other conferences.

JMU News: 12/1/14: UAB announced it will be dropping football. This is expected to lead to them departing Conference USA. This could open up a spot in CUSA for JMU should they upgrade to FBS. History: Could upgrade to FBS in future

Towson Stable

William & Mary Stable



Fort Wayne News: 8/6/19: Purdue Fort Wayne will leave the Summit League to join the Horizon in 2020. 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.

IUPUI News: 6/28/2017: IUPUI Moves from Summit League to Horizon HISTORY: The school is a potential candidate to join the Horizon as a replacement school.



Northern Kentucky News:

5/9/15: Northern Kentucky will leave the Atlantic Sun conference to join the Horizon League for the 2015-2016 season.

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

Oakland News: 5/7/13: Oakland is expected to join the Horizon League on 5/7/13. History:

The school is a potential candidate to join the Horizon as a replacement school.

Detroit Mentioned as a replacement should any A10 schools leave in the future. Could be considered for a new Midwest private conference with fellow Horizon and MVC schools should the NCAA allow new automatic bids from new conferences.

Cleveland St little interest from other conferences.

Illinois (Chi.) little interest from other conferences.

Green Bay little interest from other conferences.

Milwaukee little interest from other conferences.

Wright St little interest from other conferences.

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

Great West Expansion & Realignment Status as of 6/1/13: With everyone except N.J.I.T. gone from the Great West, the conference will close it’s doors as N.J.I.T. will become an independent. As of 11/29/12, Chicago St. will join the WAC for the 2013 season UTRGV (formerly UTPA) has been invited to the WAC, expecting approval by the Texas board this week. This effectively ends the Great West conference. As of 10/5/12, The Great West will be losing Utah Valley to the WAC for the 2013 season. As of 9/1/11, the conference likely won’t be around much longer. Texas Rio Grande Valley 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.

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 Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Columbia Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Cornell Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Dartmouth Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Harvard Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Pennsylvania Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Princeton Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

Yale Classic league won’t be expanding any time soon.

MAAC Expansion & Realignment Status as of 12/12/12: The MAAC has expanded to 11 by adding Quinnipiac and Monmouth. On 9/1/11, the Patriot League has added Loyola as it’s 10th member, effective July 1, 2012. Should the MAAC look to replace Loyola, they might look at the NEC at private schools such as Robert Morris, Monmouth, Bryant, etc. As of 9/1/11, the MAAC was stable at 10, no expansion imminent. MAAC schools would be candidates should drastic change happen to conference such as the A10, CAA, etc.

Siena The Albany school was being considered by the A10 as a replacement for St. Bonaventure. They will be evaluated again if any A10 schools leave.

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

Canisius little interest from other conferences.

Iona little interest from other conferences.

Manhattan little interest from other conferences.

Marist little interest from other conferences.

Niagara little interest from other conferences.

Rider little interest from other conferences.

St. Peter’s little interest from other conferences.

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.

Bethune Cookman No interest

Coppin St No interest.

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 No interest

MD Eastern Shore No interest

Morgan State No interest

N. Carolina A&T No interest

Norfolk State No interest

South Carolina St No interest.

NC Central St. Newest MEAC member upon their upgrade to Division 1

Winston-Salem St. News: WSSU will return to DII

7/8/04: announced they will upgrade to Division I and FCS football. Might look to join the Big South, MEAC or Southern Conference.

Valparaiso News: 5/25/2017: Valparaiso will join the Missouri Valley Conference 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.”

Loyola

(Chicago) News: 4/13/13: Loyola will join the Missouri Valley Conference, leaving the Horizon on July 1, 2013. History: 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.

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

Bradley No interest.

Drake No interest.

Evansville Could add non-scholarship football.

Illinois State No interest.

Indiana State No interest.

Northern Iowa No interest.

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



Merrimack College News: 9/11/2018:

Merrimack will upgrade to Division 1 and join the Northeast Conference in 2019

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

Central Connecticut St. Could be brought into the America East should they expand.

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

Mt. St. Mary’s Little interest but could be brought into the America East should they expand.

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

Fairleigh Dickinson No interest.

Robert Morris Potential Horizon or MAAC candidate

St. Francis (NY) No interest.

St. Francis (PA) No interest.

Wagner News: 12/12/12: The MAAC has expanded to 11 by adding Quinnipiac and Monmouth. Wagner was expected to join but backed out due to financial concerns.

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 St. HBCU school could consider joining the SWAC.

Austin Peay No interest.

Eastern Illinois No interest.

Eastern Kentucky News: 1/29/14: EKU is considering an FBS upgrade

Jacksonville St News: 4/19/11: Jacksonville St. is officially exploring FBS football Considering an upgrade to FBS football

Morehead State No interest.

Murray State No interest.

SE Missouri State No interest.

Tenn. Martin No interest.

Tennessee Tech No interest.

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 5/12/2011: 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.

Patriot League Expansion & Realignment Status as of 8/29/12: The Patriot League has added Loyola as it’s 10th member, effective July 1, 2012. On 6/15/12, The Patriot League has added Boston University for the 2013 season. As of 9/1/11, the Patriot League was stable. Fordham could leave if the school wanted to begin offering scholarships in football.



Loyola MD News: 8/29/12: The Patriot League has added Loyola as it’s 10th member, effective July 1, 2012.

Boston University News: 6/15/12: The Patriot League has added Boston University for the 2013 season. 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.

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 Staying put in the Patriot.

Bucknell Staying put in the Patriot.

Colgate Staying put in the Patriot.

Lafayette Staying put in the Patriot.

Lehigh Staying put in the Patriot.

Army Only possible move would be to the Big East for FB only

Navy Member of the Big East for football

East Tennessee St. News: 5/22/13: Big South member VMI will leave to rejoin the Southern Conference. ETSU will also rejoin the conference, bringing back football, and join with Mercer being the other school that will become the newest SoCon member. History: 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 News: 5/22/13: Big South member VMI will leave to rejoin the Southern Conference. ETSU will also rejoin the conference with Mercer being the other school that will become the newest SoCon member. History: little interest from other conferences. Planning to add non-scholarship footbal in 2013. Wi