What's Happening?
Delaware and Missouri State have officially joined Conference USA, increasing the league's membership to 11 long-term teams. This move also expands the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) to 136 teams, marking the highest number in history. Both Delaware and Missouri State have been
competitive at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level, with multiple playoff appearances in recent years. As they transition to the FBS, both programs will be ineligible for postseason play in 2025, similar to the experience of James Madison in 2022. Delaware's athletic director, Jordan Skolnick, expressed excitement about the increased exposure and competition level, while Missouri State's athletic director, Patrick Ransdell, highlighted the opportunity for the university to grow and achieve national relevance.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of Delaware and Missouri State in Conference USA is significant as it reflects the ongoing realignment and expansion within college football. This move provides both universities with greater visibility and the potential to enhance their athletic programs. For Conference USA, the addition of these teams strengthens its competitive landscape and geographic reach. The transition to FBS status is a strategic step for both schools, aiming to attract better recruits and increase their national profile. However, the initial ineligibility for postseason play presents a challenge that both programs will need to navigate as they establish themselves in the FBS.
What's Next?
As Delaware and Missouri State prepare for their first season in Conference USA, they will focus on building competitive teams capable of succeeding at the FBS level. Both programs will aim to leverage their historical success and institutional support to attract talent and improve their standings. The upcoming season will be crucial for setting the tone of their FBS journey, with both schools needing to adapt to the higher level of competition. The broader college football community will be watching closely to see how these programs perform and integrate into the FBS landscape.
