The Mountain West Conference has announced a significant addition to its football lineup with the inclusion of Northern Illinois University (NIU). This transition, effective July 1, 2026, marks a new chapter for the Huskies. The conference leadership praised NIU's commitment to both academic excellence and athletic success. Meanwhile, the Mountain West is undergoing restructuring due to several member departures for the Pac-12 Conference. NIU’s history in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) includes multiple championship appearances and bowl game victories, highlighting their competitive strength.
A New Chapter for Huskie Football
NIU's acceptance into the Mountain West Conference represents a pivotal moment for the university and its football program. The move opens up fresh opportunities for student-athletes and enhances the national visibility of the team. President Lisa C. Freeman expressed enthusiasm about joining this prestigious group of universities. The Huskies have demonstrated consistent performance over the years, ranking among the top FBS programs in recent seasons. Additionally, they secured a memorable victory against Notre Dame this year, further cementing their reputation.
Since 1997, NIU has been an integral part of the MAC, achieving remarkable success with nine championship appearances and five titles since 2011. They also participated in 13 bowl games since 2004, including the prestigious Orange Bowl in 2013. The university's football program has consistently balanced academic achievements with athletic prowess, aligning perfectly with the values of the Mountain West Conference. This transition promises to elevate the Huskies' profile on a broader stage, offering more exposure and recognition for their accomplishments.
Mountain West Conference Restructuring
The Mountain West Conference is experiencing a period of transformation as it welcomes new members while bidding farewell to others. With Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Utah State moving to the Pac-12 Conference, the Mountain West needed to adapt. Adding NIU and UTEP brings the total number of football-playing members to nine, along with non-football additions like UC Davis and Grand Canyon. This strategic move ensures the conference remains competitive and vibrant.
The decision to include NIU was based on its impressive track record in football and its dedication to academic excellence. The MW Commissioner Gloria Nevarez highlighted that NIU shares the conference's vision of balancing academics and athletics. Despite the increased travel demands for NIU, located in Dekalb, the financial benefits from the Mountain West are expected to outweigh these challenges. Historically, NIU has faced such transitions before, having left the MAC in 1986 and briefly joined the Big West Conference. The current shift underscores the university's adaptability and commitment to excellence in sports and education.