The Mid-American Conference (MAC) has decided to expand its membership by adding Sacramento State as a football-only member, starting in the 2026 season. This move was confirmed by sources familiar with the decision, indicating a strategic effort to strengthen the league's football competition and regional presence.
The decision was made after a vote among MAC presidents, who agreed to include Sacramento State, an FCS program, into the league's football roster. This addition is expected to enhance the conference's competitiveness and provide more opportunities for the participating schools.
Sacramento State, located in California, has been competing at the FCS level and is known for its strong football program. The move to join the MAC as a football-only member allows the university to compete at a higher level while maintaining its existing commitments in other sports within its current conference affiliations.
Sources indicate that the transition will be seamless, with Sacramento State set to participate in MAC football games starting in 2026. The league's decision aligns with broader trends of conference realignment and expansion, as schools seek to optimize their athletic programs for better exposure and competition.
While the addition of Sacramento State is primarily focused on football, it reflects a broader strategy by the MAC to enhance its profile and competitiveness in the NCAA landscape. The move also underscores the increasing importance of football as a key driver of conference expansion and realignment decisions.
Overall, this development marks a significant step for Sacramento State, providing new opportunities for its football team and elevating its profile within collegiate athletics. The league's decision is expected to be finalized soon, with official announcements anticipated in the coming weeks.