Mountain West & UNLV: Conference Survival Guide
- Five Mountain West Conference schools have formally declared their departure to the Pac-12, effective in 2026.
- The future of the Mountain West now largely depends on UNLV, according to reports.
- Meanwhile, USC's recruiting efforts are gaining momentum.The Trojans recently secured a commitment from five-star tight end Mark Bowman from Mater Dei High School for the 2026 season.
Mountain West Schools officially Announce Pac-12 Move
Updated June 03, 2025
Five Mountain West Conference schools have formally declared their departure to the Pac-12, effective in 2026. The move marks a meaningful shift in the landscape of college football, impacting conference alignments and recruiting strategies.
The future of the Mountain West now largely depends on UNLV, according to reports. The conference faces potential restructuring as it navigates the departure of key member institutions.
Meanwhile, USC’s recruiting efforts are gaining momentum.The Trojans recently secured a commitment from five-star tight end Mark Bowman from Mater Dei High School for the 2026 season. This addition is considered a major win for USC, both on and off the field, enhancing their roster and recruiting profile.
What’s next
The realignment is expected to continue influencing college football recruiting and conference stability in the coming years. Further shifts in conference membership may occur as schools seek competitive advantages and financial security.