The Pac-12 re-emerges in the college football scene for the 2026 season, marking its return after a two-year hiatus. With only Oregon State and Washington State remaining from the previous lineup, the conference welcomes five teams from the Mountain West and Texas State from the Sun Belt.

Despite the challenges posed by past conference realignments, the Pac-12 is poised to become a formidable presence among non-power conferences. The conference's innovative scheduling includes a unique Week 13 flex rematch against a yet-to-be-determined opponent, enhancing its chances of securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).

Conference Rankings Overview:

1. Pac-12

   • Top teams: Boise State, San Diego State, Fresno State
   • No sub-120 teams.

2. American

   • Top teams: Navy, UTSA, Tulane
   • Sub-120 teams: Charlotte, UAB.

3. Mountain West

   • Top teams: UNLV, New Mexico, Hawaii
   • Sub-120 teams: Northern Illinois, San Jose State, Nevada, UTEP.

4. Sun Belt

   • Top teams: Old Dominion, Georgia Southern, Marshall
   • Sub-120 teams: Louisiana-Monroe, Georgia State, Southern Miss.

5. Conference USA

   • Top teams: Jacksonville State, Western Kentucky, Liberty
   • Sub-120 teams: Middle Tennessee, Sam Houston, Missouri State, New Mexico State.

6. MAC

   • Top teams: Toledo, Miami (Ohio), Western Michigan
   • Sub-120 teams: UMass, Sacramento State, Ball State, Kent State, Bowling Green, Akron.

The Pac-12 currently ranks just ahead of the American in the Group of Six hierarchy, with Boise State as a standout contender. As the season approaches, the conference's strategic flex matches could play a crucial role in enhancing its competitiveness and visibility on the national stage.