Get ready for a game-changer! Sacramento State is making a bold move to join the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as a football-only member, starting in 2026. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the college football world, and for good reason.
MAC Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher sees this as a strategic move to boost the conference's competitiveness and create long-term value. He believes Sacramento State, with its impressive football record and commitment to growth, is the perfect addition.
But here's where it gets controversial... Sacramento State's football program has been on fire, winning seven conference titles and consistently ranking in the top 25. They've proven their mettle, but joining the MAC as a football-only member raises questions. Will this move benefit Sacramento State's overall athletic program and student-athlete experience?
Geoffrey S. Mearns, Chair of the Council of Presidents, believes it will. He sees this partnership as a proactive step towards innovation and a demonstration of the conference's enduring strength.
Scott Wetherbee, Chair of the MAC Council of Directors of Athletics, agrees. He praises Commissioner Steinbrecher's leadership and vision, stating that Sacramento State's addition will strengthen the conference and ensure continued success.
Sacramento State, located in the heart of California's capital, is a powerhouse in its own right. With a student body of nearly 31,000, it's a leading center for research and innovation. Dr. Luke Wood, the university's president, sees this move as a declaration of Sacramento State's ambition and a way to elevate the entire region.
"This is about more than just football," Dr. Wood emphasizes. "It's about creating opportunities, gaining visibility, and building momentum. We're committed to competing and winning at the highest level, and this move will help us attract the best talent and fuel our growth."
Mark Orr, Sacramento State's Director of Athletics, is thrilled for the football team and the opportunities this move will bring. He expresses gratitude to the MAC leadership for their support and confidence in Sacramento State's program.
But this is just the beginning. Sacramento State's athletics program has a rich history, with 21 intercollegiate teams and over 100 conference titles since moving to NCAA Div. I. Their student-athletes excel both on the field and in the classroom, maintaining a GPA over 3.0 for the past decade.
The Mid-American Conference, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is an established NCAA Division I conference with 13 full-time members. It offers championships in 23 sports and is a prominent member of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
So, what do you think? Is this a smart move for Sacramento State and the MAC? Will it benefit both parties in the long run? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
