Sun Belt Conference Faces Potential Shake-Up with Texas State’s Future in Question
As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, the Sun Belt Conference finds itself at a crossroads. Recent reports indicate that Texas State University is exploring options to leave the Sun Belt, sparking discussions among conference officials about potential ramifications and future membership changes. Sources close to the situation revealed to the Daily News-Record that conversations between Texas State and both the Mountain West Conference and the Pac-12 have intensified, raising eyebrows and concerns within the Sun Belt leadership.
Texas State’s Options: Mountain West and Pac-12
On Saturday, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Texas State has received a verbal offer to join the Mountain West Conference, although the Bobcats have yet to accept it. This development suggests that Texas State is weighing its options carefully, particularly as it awaits a potential invitation from the Pac-12. The implications of such a move could be significant, not only for Texas State but also for the Sun Belt, which would need to address the vacancy left by the Bobcats if they decide to depart.
Sun Belt’s Response to Potential Departures
In light of these developments, Sun Belt officials, including school presidents and athletic directors, are actively preparing for the possibility of Texas State’s exit. Preliminary discussions among conference leaders indicate that if a position opens up, the Sun Belt could attract interest from several schools in Conference USA (CUSA) and possibly some from the Mid-American Conference (MAC). However, the interest from MAC members may hinge on other movements within the collegiate landscape, particularly concerning the Mountain West’s rumored interest in schools like Northern Illinois and Toledo.
The Stability of Other Conferences
While the Sun Belt grapples with potential changes, other conferences appear to be holding steady for the moment. The American Athletic Conference (AAC) has successfully fended off attempts from the Pac-12 to lure away key programs like Memphis and Tulane, which has contributed to a sense of stability within that league. The AAC’s lucrative media rights deal further solidifies its standing, making it less likely for its members to seek out opportunities elsewhere.
CUSA as a Potential Source for New Members
Should Texas State decide to leave, CUSA emerges as the most probable source for the Sun Belt to find a new member. Western Kentucky University (WKU) stands out as a logical candidate. The Hilltoppers have demonstrated consistent success across various sports, including football and men’s basketball, and have previously expressed interest in joining the MAC. Geographically, WKU would enhance the Sun Belt’s West Division, creating a tighter footprint while maintaining competitive balance.
Other Contenders: Middle Tennessee and More
Middle Tennessee State University also presents a compelling option for the Sun Belt. Known for its strong women’s basketball program, Middle Tennessee has had a mixed record in football and men’s basketball recently. Other potential candidates include Jacksonville State, Florida International University (FIU), and Sam Houston, each fitting the Sun Belt’s geographic footprint to varying degrees. However, FIU would align better with the East Division, while Jacksonville State and Sam Houston are recent transitions from FCS to FBS.
The Controversial Candidates: Liberty and Louisiana Tech
Two additional schools that could be considered are Liberty University and Louisiana Tech University. Liberty, with its private religious affiliation and recent controversies, might face resistance from existing Sun Belt members, who are predominantly public institutions. Meanwhile, Louisiana Tech’s historical tensions with several Sun Belt schools, stemming from past comments by former athletic director Tommy McClelland, could complicate its potential membership. However, with new leadership at Louisiana Tech, the atmosphere may be more conducive to collaboration.
The Road Ahead for the Sun Belt
As the Sun Belt navigates this uncertain terrain, Western Kentucky appears poised to receive a favorable recommendation from the conference commissioner’s office if a vacancy arises. However, the distance between Louisiana and Kentucky could lead to differing opinions among Sun Belt members regarding the best candidate to fill any potential gaps. The coming days will be crucial as the Sun Belt assesses its options and prepares for whatever changes may lie ahead in the ever-shifting world of college athletics.