The Evolution of Pac-12

The Pac-12 has been in a state of flux for over three years, ever since USC and UCLA announced their departure for the Big Ten. This move set off a chain reaction of conference realignment on the West Coast, leaving the Pac-12 in a precarious position. However, the conference is now beginning to solidify its future with strategic moves and new partnerships.

New Members and Strategic Partnerships

With Texas State officially joining as the ninth member, the Pac-12 has secured a cornerstone media partnership with CBS and is leveraging its proprietary production facility to chart a new course. "This is truly a startup," said Pac-12 commissioner Teresa Gould. "On July 1, 2026, we are launching a new and different league, and it's not the old Pac-12 -- it's a new Pac-12."

Legacy Members and Firm Ground

Washington State and Oregon State, the two remaining legacy members, are no longer just participants; they are co-architects of this new vision. "It feels like we have firm ground: something that we can envision, we can wrap our minds around," said WSU athletic director Anne McCoy.

Challenges and Litigation

Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. The Pac-12 is embroiled in a legal dispute with the Mountain West over exit fees and poaching penalties. This litigation could significantly impact both conferences in the months ahead.

Branding and Future Goals

The Pac-12 is positioning itself as a "Top 5" league, focusing on competing at the highest level. The conference's ownership of its media infrastructure through Pac-12 Enterprises provides a unique advantage, allowing it to produce a wide range of live events.

The Road Ahead

As the Pac-12 prepares for its relaunch in 2026, the focus is on finalizing sports sponsorships, establishing championship formats, and determining affiliate members for Olympic sports. "We have to make some decisions here in the next 30 to 60 days," Gould said.

Conclusion

The Pac-12's journey is a testament to resilience and innovation in college football. With new members, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, the conference is poised to carve out a significant role in the evolving landscape of college athletics.