What's Happening?
The Mountain West Conference has announced its updated 2026 football matchups, marking a new era with an expanded league footprint. The conference will feature 10 programs competing across 40 games in four time zones. The revision follows the addition
of North Dakota State, NIU, and UTEP to the conference. Each team will play four home and four away games over a 13-week schedule, culminating in the Mountain West Football Championship Game. The championship will feature the two teams with the highest conference win percentages, potentially leading to a College Football Playoff berth.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of the Mountain West Conference is significant for college football as it increases the competitive landscape and offers more opportunities for teams to showcase their talents on a larger stage. The inclusion of new teams like North Dakota State, NIU, and UTEP enhances the diversity and reach of the conference, potentially attracting more fans and increasing media coverage. This expansion can lead to increased revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships, benefiting all member institutions.
What's Next?
The full 2026 football schedule will be announced in the coming weeks, providing clarity on matchups and dates. Teams will begin preparations for the expanded season, focusing on strategies to maximize their performance in the new conference setup. Stakeholders, including coaches, players, and fans, will be keenly observing the developments as they anticipate the potential impacts on team dynamics and conference standings.
