Sacramento State Joins Mid-American Conference in Historic FBS Transition

The Sacramento State Hornets football program is making a bold leap that will reshape the college football landscape. Starting in 2026, Sacramento State will join the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as a football-only member, moving up from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). This move marks a historic moment for the Hornets and the MAC, expanding the conference’s reach from the Midwest all the way to the West Coast.

This post explores the significance of Sacramento State’s transition, the financial and strategic implications, recent coaching staff changes across Division I, and notable head coaching updates in Division II programs.

Sacramento State’s Historic Move to FBS and the MAC

Sacramento State’s jump to the FBS level is a rare and significant event in college football. The Hornets will become the 138th FBS program, filling the spot left by Northern Illinois, which is departing the MAC. This expansion will make the MAC a bi-coastal conference, stretching its footprint from the Midwest to California.

The transition involves a substantial financial commitment. Sacramento State is expected to pay an entry fee of approximately $18 million, in addition to NCAA transition costs. This investment reflects the university’s commitment to elevating its football program and competing at a higher level.

This move follows a similar high-profile transition by North Dakota State, which accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference at the FBS level. These shifts highlight a growing trend of successful FCS programs moving up to FBS, seeking greater exposure, revenue, and competition.

What This Means for Sacramento State

• Increased Competition: The Hornets will face stronger opponents, which can boost recruiting and fan engagement.

• Expanded Recruiting Reach: Joining the MAC opens doors to new recruiting territories and media markets.

• Financial Impact: The entry fee and transition costs are significant but offer long-term revenue opportunities through TV contracts and bowl games.

• Conference Exposure: The MAC’s established presence in the FBS landscape provides a platform for Sacramento State to grow its brand nationally.

  
  
  
  

Recent Coaching and Staff Changes in Division I Football

Staffing changes are a key part of college football’s offseason, and several programs have made strategic hires to prepare for upcoming seasons.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Add Defensive Coach

Rutgers brought in Joe Woodley, former head coach at Drake, to strengthen its defensive coaching staff. Woodley has a strong background with success at the NAIA level and proven results in FCS programs. His experience is expected to help Rutgers improve its defensive schemes and player development.

USC Trojans Promote Skyler Jones

USC promoted Skyler Jones to defensive tackles coach. This internal promotion fills a key vacancy and supports the new defensive coordinator’s vision. Jones’ familiarity with the team and defensive system should provide continuity and stability.

Kentucky Wildcats Name Director of Player Personnel

Kentucky hired Jerret McElwain as Director of Player Personnel, a critical administrative role. This hire signals Kentucky’s focus on improving recruiting operations and player management ahead of spring football preparations.

These staffing moves reflect broader trends in college football, where programs seek to build strong coaching teams and administrative support to compete effectively.

NCAA Division II Head Coaching Updates

Division II programs also experience coaching changes as they prepare for the 2026 season. Recent confirmed updates include:

• Wayne State Warriors: Terrence Isaac was named head coach following Tyrone Wheatley’s resignation. Isaac brings fresh leadership to the program.

• Delta State Statesmen: David Dean takes over as head coach, aiming to build on the team’s recent successes.

• Harding Bisons: Paul Simmons moved to a general manager role, with a new head coach search underway.

  
  

These changes are typical of the offseason coaching carousel and reflect programs’ efforts to position themselves for future success.

What to Watch Next

Sacramento State’s move to the MAC will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and other FCS programs considering a jump to FBS. The transition will test the Hornets’ ability to compete at a higher level and manage the financial and operational challenges involved.

Meanwhile, coaching hires and staff changes across Division I and II will shape the competitive landscape in the coming seasons. Programs that make smart hires and build strong teams will be better positioned to succeed.