What's Happening?
The Mid-American Conference (MAC) is currently evaluating a proposal from Sacramento State for a football-only membership. Sacramento State has proposed an eight-figure entry fee to join the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), a move that has been rebuffed by other conferences like the Mountain West and Pac-12. The MAC, which recently added UMass and is losing Northern Illinois, is also in the midst of negotiating a new television deal with ESPN. Sacramento State's offer includes a significant entry fee and the forfeiture of conference revenues for a period, similar to a strategy used by SMU to join the ACC. The proposal is seen as attractive due to financial pressures on universities, particularly those in the MAC.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant
as it highlights the financial strategies universities are employing to join higher-profile athletic conferences. Sacramento State's proposal could set a precedent for other institutions seeking to elevate their athletic programs by leveraging financial incentives. For the MAC, accepting Sacramento State could provide a financial boost and maintain its membership numbers amid ongoing changes. The move also underscores the growing financial pressures on universities and the competitive nature of college athletics, where financial contributions can influence conference alignments.
What's Next?
If the MAC accepts Sacramento State's proposal, it will need to integrate the team into its schedule and address any logistical challenges associated with a football-only membership. The conference will also continue its negotiations with ESPN for a new television deal, which could be influenced by the addition of a new member. Sacramento State, meanwhile, will need to prepare for the transition to FBS, including meeting NCAA requirements and potentially upgrading facilities.
