In a statement released by Texas State late Tuesday, the school confirmed that it will not be leaving the Sun Belt Conference “at this time,” despite rumors of a potential move to the Mountain West. While there were discussions with another conference, Texas State ultimately decided to stay put.
The decision comes as the Mountain West faces departures from five schools to the Pac-12, leaving it with just seven all-sports members. UTEP’s announcement that it will be leaving Conference USA for the Mountain West has left the conference in need of one more school to qualify for consideration for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
With this vacancy, the Mountain West’s next move remains uncertain. New Mexico State, currently a member of Conference USA, could be a potential target for the conference. Not only is New Mexico State geographically close to both UTEP and New Mexico, but it also has an existing rivalry with both schools.
Texas State’s decision to remain in the Sun Belt Conference means that it will continue to compete against schools like South Alabama and Troy. While it is geographically closer to schools in the Sun Belt, such as Louisiana and Louisiana-Monroe, Texas State will continue to consider its conference options as the landscape of collegiate athletics continues to evolve.
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