With the Pac-12 on the clock to add one more football-playing program before July 1, 2026, to retain its conference status, several teams have been rumored to fill that final spot. One team generating buzz is Texas State. Meanwhile, in the Sun Belt, Eastern Kentucky is emerging as a compelling candidate in a projected realignment scenario that could reshape the conference landscape.
The Bobcats joined the Sun Belt in 2013 after moving up from Division I-AA (now FCS), where they were a member of the Southland Conference from 1987 to 2012. They spent one transition year in the WAC.
In this article, Sun Belt Syndicate explores a projected new alignment for the conference—one that assumes Texas State departs, and the league expands to 16 programs. Because most conference realignments since 2004 have been driven by football, this analysis focuses solely on football programs.
To determine possible additions, we looked for schools within or near the Sun Belt footprint that would be a good institutional, cultural and competitive fit.
Eastern Kentucky
With a storied football history that includes 21 FCS playoff appearances and two national championships (1979, 1982), Eastern Kentucky offers a tradition-rich program. The Colonels have shown intent to move up by investing in facilities and remaining competitive in recent seasons. EKU posted a 7–5 record in 2023 and made the FCS playoffs in 2022.
Geographically and culturally, EKU fits well in the Sun Belt. Located in Richmond, Kentucky, the school could form regional rivalries with programs like Marshall and Appalachian State.
As a regional public university, EKU aligns with many Sun Belt institutions and brings a football-first culture with a loyal fan base.
Eastern Kentucky’s 2025 football schedule features eight United Athletic Conference games, two FCS non-conference matchups, and two FBS opponents at Louisville and Marshallhttps://t.co/qbo15FGlxN
— HERO Sports FCS (@HEROSports_FCS) June 3, 2025
However, challenges remain. EKU is still at the FCS level and would face a steep transition in scholarships, competitive depth and financial resources. It is also in a small media market, which may limit its value in terms of television revenue.
Plus, the Sun Belt has already added several regional programs in recent years—such as James Madison and Southern Miss—that may have been more FBS-ready at the time.
Western Kentucky
Western Kentucky, a current member of Conference USA, is a natural candidate in discussions about Sun Belt expansion. A fully established FBS program, WKU brings a strong résumé and deep roots in the sport.
The Hilltoppers made 20 FCS playoff appearances before moving up in 2009 and have since appeared in 10 bowl games, winning seven. That includes a win in the 2023 Famous Toastery Bowl.
Bowling Green, home to WKU, fits neatly within the Sun Belt footprint. The school is within driving distance of Marshall, James Madison and Appalachian State, which would reduce travel costs and enhance rivalries. Institutionally, WKU is similar to many Sun Belt schools in mission and size.
Its football-first mindset, enthusiastic fan base and history in both the Sun Belt and Ohio Valley Conference add to its appeal.
Showcase rewind 🔁 pic.twitter.com/wlt23iZE71
— WKU Football (@WKUFootball) April 13, 2025
Still, there are drawbacks. WKU left the Sun Belt for Conference USA in 2014, and a return may raise questions about long-term commitment. Additionally, Bowling Green is a smaller media market that might not significantly boost the conference’s visibility. As an established FBS program, WKU could also present challenges around revenue sharing and competitive balance.
Middle Tennessee
Middle Tennessee, also in Conference USA, could be another logical addition. An FBS program since 1999, MTSU brings postseason experience and fits geographically. The Blue Raiders have played in 12 bowl games since 2006, winning five, including the 2022 Hawaii Bowl. The program also has roots at the FCS level, reaching the national semifinals in 1984.
Murfreesboro is squarely within the Sun Belt’s footprint, surrounded by potential rivals like Troy and South Alabama. As a large, public university with a football-first approach, MTSU aligns well with the rest of the conference.
Week 3️⃣ work 😤#BoroBuiltMiddleMade pic.twitter.com/MQRtmVr0hS
— Middle Tennessee Football (@MT_FB) April 6, 2025
However, MTSU has had inconsistent on-field performance in recent years and competes in a crowded Nashville media market. Its previous departure from the Sun Belt in 2013 may also raise strategic concerns for league officials.
Projected Division Realignment
With Texas State potentially leaving and these three teams joining, here’s a possible new divisional structure. Eastern Kentucky would join the East Division, due to its proximity to Marshall and James Madison. Middle Tennessee and Western Kentucky would join the West, creating a natural grouping with the Alabama and Louisiana schools.
Honorable Mentions
Other programs could be considered. In the East, Kennesaw State and Delaware—both set to join Conference USA or transition to FBS—offer growing programs in key regions. FCS powers like Chattanooga and Richmond could revive historical rivalries while bringing competitive rosters.
In the West, most candidates would come from the FCS level. Stephen F. Austin and Northern Iowa offer strong football traditions. Abilene Christian is fresh off its first playoff appearance since 2010. Jacksonville State, now in FBS, has posted winning seasons in each of its first two years and won the 2024 Conference USA title.
Final Thoughts
Will this all happen? Who knows. If the last 20 years of realignment have taught us anything, it’s that even the most illogical moves can still happen.
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