Pac-12 Conference Eyes Texas State for Expansion Amid Rebuilding Efforts
The Pac-12 Conference is on a path to transformation following a mass exodus that left only Oregon State and Washington State as members. Reports from ESPN’s Pete Thamel suggest that Texas State University is poised to join the revamped conference as it prepares for a new chapter in 2026.
As part of the expansion, the Pac-12 is set to welcome Boise State University, Colorado State University, Fresno State, San Diego State University, Oregon State University, Gonzaga University, Washington State University, and Utah State University. With the addition of Texas State, the conference would feature eight FBS football programs and nine total institutions, as Gonzaga does not participate in football.
A critical aspect of this move is the preservation of the Pac-12’s FBS status. Thamel reported on an intriguing Instagram story posted by Texas State President Kelly Damphousse, featuring Oregon State’s mascot, "Benny the Beaver," enjoying a moment in the San Marcos River. This post, accompanied by a teasing emoji, hinted at potential future collaboration between the two schools. Damphousse further fueled speculation by reposting the image on June 10.
Sources indicate that Texas State is the frontrunner for an official invitation to the Pac-12. Due to a buyout clause set to escalate from $5 million to $10 million on July 1 for the 2026-2027 season, an invitation and subsequent acceptance could materialize before the end of this month.
Notably, Texas State previously turned down an offer to join the Mountain West Conference, choosing instead to remain within the Sun Belt Conference, making this potential move a significant strategic shift for the university.
As the Pac-12 charts its new course, the addition of schools like Texas State could signal a promising future for the conference.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
