The newly revamped Pac-12 Conference is anticipated to make an impact on collegiate football. The addition of six new institutions creates a fresh era of competitiveness within the conference, which concludes its previous two-year, two-school stint. The new football members include Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Texas State and Utah State. Out of these six programs, five had previously competed in the Mountain West Conference.
Consequently, the move introduces existing familiarity and established rivalries between the schools. However, Boise State is the only new program to display postseason experience and has reached the College Football Playoff.
Regardless of past victories, the rebooted Pac-12 provides an equal opportunity for all programs to reach the conference championship. Boise State coach Spencer Danielson conveys his positive perspective on the chances of success.
“Moving forward to this season in the Pac-12, every single school in the Pac-12 has an absolute elite opportunity to win the conference,” Danielson said.
Apart from the Pac-12, right next door, the Big 12 Conference is predicted to have a favorable season. Four Big 12 Conference schools are ranked in the top 25 of the Associated Press preseason poll.
Texas Tech was placed highest at No. 12. The Red Raiders finished last season with the No. 4 seed in the national championship playoffs, a Big 12 Championship victory and an overall record of 12-2.
Red Raiders’ Coach Joey McGuire is optimistic for his program’s upcoming season and is aiming for historical goals. In July during the Big 12 Football Media Days, McGuire expressed his aspirations.
“We want to do something that very few teams have been able to do, and that’s to win the Big 12 Championship again,” McGuire said.
Followed closely behind them is Brigham Young University sitting at No. 14. Last season, BYU suffered only two losses, both against Texas Tech. The Cougars are led by sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who ended his freshman season with over 3,000 yards, 15 touchdowns and the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year award.
BYU and Texas Tech are expected to be the main contenders for the Big 12 championship. However, Red Raiders’ McGuire suggests that Big 12 football and their postseason appearances are a focal point for improvement.
“I think it’s really important that this conference gets multiple teams in the playoffs. I think there’s an obligation as programs in this conference that we play at a high level,” McGuire said.
As the season approaches, fans can expect competitive play from both of these conferences. New teams have a chance to make an impact and showcase their talents, in hopes of advancing to the playoffs.