In a development that could reshape the landscape of NCAA football, Texas State University is reportedly on the brink of receiving an invitation to join the Pac-12 Conference. According to sources close to the negotiations, the talks between Texas State and the Pac-12 have intensified over the past 24 hours, with a formal offer expected soon.

Key Details:

• Timeline: The offer is anticipated to be extended this week, with Texas State likely to join the Pac-12 for the 2026-27 school year.
• Financial Implications: Texas State faces a critical deadline, as its exit fee to join the Pac-12 will double from $5 million to $10 million on July 1. To avoid this increased cost, the invitation must be finalized by the end of this week.
• Conference Requirements: The Pac-12 needs a minimum of eight football members to operate as an FBS conference. With Texas State’s addition, the Pac-12 would meet this requirement, bringing its total football membership to eight, with Gonzaga as the ninth non-football member.

Strategic Significance:

Texas State’s potential move to the Pac-12 is a strategic play for both parties. For the Pac-12, it marks a significant expansion into the football-rich state of Texas, a region known for its passionate fan base and recruiting opportunities. For Texas State, it represents a leap into a more competitive and high-profile conference, enhancing its athletic and academic reputation.

Background:

Texas State, a university with 40,000 students, has been a member of the Sun Belt Conference since 2013. The Bobcats have shown consistent growth in their football program, including back-to-back bowl wins and an eight-win season under coach GJ Kinne. This success has made them an attractive candidate for conference realignment.

What’s Next:

Once the formal offer is extended, Texas State’s board of regents will need to convene a meeting to approve the move. Given Texas’ open meeting laws, this process requires a 72-hour notice, meaning the decision could be finalized as early as Monday.

This move would mark a new chapter for both Texas State and the Pac-12, as the conference continues to adapt and evolve in the ever-changing landscape of college athletics.