Pac-12 relaunch: How we got here, new teams, 2026 contenders

Key Points:

• The Pac-12 has been resurrected as of July 1, 2026, after nearly disappearing due to major conference realignment that left only Oregon State and Washington State as members by 2024.
• The new Pac-12 consists of eight teams, primarily former Mountain West programs and one from the Sun Belt, including Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Texas State, Utah State, Oregon State, and Washington State, meeting the NCAA minimum for FBS status.
• Boise State is the favorite to win the conference in 2026, returning a highly experienced roster, while San Diego State, Texas State, Washington State, and Fresno State form a competitive middle tier with potential to challenge for the title.
• The conference will implement a unique Week 13 "flex" game where teams play a second game against a Pac-12 opponent; this game does not count toward conference standings and allows for strategic scheduling to enhance playoff resumes.
• Each team faces distinct challenges and opportunities, such as Colorado State’s complete reset under new coach Jim Mora, Oregon State’s quarterback competition, and Texas State’s strong returning offensive production combined with defensive rebuilding.