UTEP Miners are reportedly considering a move to the Mountain West conference in the next potential conference realignment. College football Insider Pete Thamel revealed that discussions are underway between the Mountain West and UTEP, a current member of Conference USA. It is believed that there is mutual interest between the two parties, and confirmation of a potential deal is expected soon from UTEP. This move would see the Mountain West expand to an eight-member field, a status necessary for recognition by the College Football Playoff and NCAA as an FBS conference.
However, if UTEP decides to leave Conference USA for the Mountain West, they will have to pay $2 million in exit fees.
In the wake of five Mountain West programs departing for the Pac-12 – including San Diego State, Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and Utah State – the remaining members of the Mountain West signed a memorandum to solidify their commitment to the conference through 2032. This move was crucial to ensure the stability and future of the conference, especially with rumors swirling about UNLV and Air Force potentially leaving as well.
Mountain West Commissioner Gloria Nevarez expressed her satisfaction with the agreements reached, stating that they mark a historic moment for the conference and provide much-needed stability and clarity in the ever-evolving landscape of intercollegiate athletics. Additionally, UNLV and Air Force will each receive at least $25 million in bonus money to stay with the conference, with the funds coming from the exit fees paid by the departing programs.
As for the Pac-12, they will be left with seven members beginning in 2026 and will need to add one more member to complete their conference and earn automatic berths in the 12-team College Football Playoff Field. The conference realignment landscape continues to shift, with schools and conferences making strategic moves to position themselves for success in the future.
In conclusion, the potential move of UTEP to the Mountain West conference represents another significant development in the ever-changing world of college football. As conferences jockey for position and stability, it will be interesting to see how this move plays out and what impact it will have on the landscape of college athletics.
