College Football Relighnment 2023

It’s indeed an exciting time in college football with the ongoing conference realignment. The shift in conference membership can have significant implications for the schools involved, both in terms of athletic competition and financial opportunities.

The move of Oklahoma and Texas from the Big 12 to the SEC is undoubtedly the most high-profile change in recent years. This move will have a major impact on both conferences, as Oklahoma and Texas are historic powerhouses in college football. Their presence in the SEC will likely elevate the competition within the conference and create new rivalries.

Similarly, the move of USC and UCLA from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten is a significant development. USC and UCLA are iconic programs on the West Coast, and their entry into the Big Ten will expand the conference’s footprint and add to the overall competitiveness of the conference.

For San Diego State, the decision to remain in the Mountain West rather than making a Power Five jump highlights the complexities and uncertainties involved in conference realignment. Factors such as media rights and negotiations and financial considerations can heavily influence a school’s decision to switch conferences.

The 14 programs involved in this round of conference realignment come from diverse backgrounds. Some are traditional football powerhouses with storied histories, while others are up-and-coming programs looking to make their mark at the highest level of college football. The changes range from schools transitioning to the FBS from lower divisions to programs leaving behind independence or achieving long awaited upgrades to power five conferences.

Overall, conference realignment represents a significant shift in the college football landscape, with schools positioning themselves for increased exposure, revenue, and competitiveness. The effects of these changes will be closely watched in the coming years as conferences adjust and new rivalries emerge.