Northern Illinois University (NIU) is at a pivotal crossroads as it considers an offer to join the Mountain West Conference (MWC) as a football-only member. This potential move, reported by CBS Sportsโ Dennis Dodd, would mark a significant shift for the Huskies, who have been a staple of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) since 1997.
The future of NIUโs other sports programs remains uncertain, but the football teamโs potential transition to the MWC could have far-reaching implications for both conferences and the broader landscape of college football.
NIUโs Potential Move to the Mountain West Conference
NIU has been a consistent and successful member of the MAC, capturing five conference titles under three different coaches since 2011. The Huskiesโ historic upset over Notre Dame in Week 2 further underscores their competitive prowess.
However, the allure of joining the MWC, which would bring the conferenceโs football-playing members to nine, presents a new opportunity for NIU. The NCAA requires an FBS league to have at least eight members to be recognized as a conference, and NIUโs addition would provide a buffer for the MWC.
Impact on the Mid-American Conference
While the MAC is set to add UMass as a full member starting in the 2025 season, the departure of NIU would still be a significant loss. NIU has been a cornerstone of the MAC, and its exit would leave a void in the conference.
However, the MACโs numbers will remain stable with the inclusion of UMass, ensuring that the conference continues to meet NCAA requirements.
Historical Context and Previous Conference Moves
NIUโs potential shift to the MWC is not without precedent. The Huskies previously left the MAC in 1986 and joined the Big West Conference, where they competed alongside current MWC schools such as UNLV, Nevada, and San Jose State from 1993 to 1995.
This historical context adds an intriguing layer to the current discussions, as NIU considers rejoining some of its former conference rivals.
Realignment Ripple Effects
The latest round of conference realignments was triggered by the Pac-12โs aggressive expansion efforts. The Pac-12 poached Boise State, Fresno State, Colorado State, San Diego State, and Utah State as football members, along with Gonzaga to bolster its basketball presence.
These moves have left the Pac-12 needing to add at least one more school to meet the eight-member minimum required by the NCAA. The MWCโs potential addition of NIU and UTEP would help stabilize the conference amid these broader shifts.
Future of NIUโs Non-Football Sports
One of the most pressing questions surrounding NIUโs potential move to the MWC is the future of its non-football sports programs. If the Huskies join the MWC as a football-only member, it remains unclear where their remaining sports would compete.
This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the decision-making process for NIUโs administration.
Mountain Westโs Expansion Strategy
The MWCโs strategy to add football-only members like NIU and UTEP is part of a broader plan to strengthen the conferenceโs football profile. Earlier this year, the MWC added UC Davis as a non-football member, allowing the Aggiesโ football program to continue competing in the Big Sky Conference as an FCS member.
Grand Canyon University also joined the MWC as a non-football member, bringing the basketball league to ten teams. These strategic additions aim to enhance the MWCโs overall competitiveness and stability.
NIUโs Decision-Making Process
The decision for NIU to join the MWC will not be made lightly. The universityโs administration must weigh the benefits of increased competition and exposure in the MWC against the potential challenges of relocating its non-football sports programs.
Additionally, the financial implications of such a move will be a critical factor in the decision-making process.
Financial Considerations
Joining the MWC could provide NIU with increased revenue opportunities through larger television contracts and potential bowl game appearances. However, the costs associated with travel and logistics for non-football sports programs could offset some of these financial gains.
The university must carefully analyze these factors to ensure that the move is in the best long-term interest of its athletic programs.
Conclusion
As NIU deliberates its potential move to the Mountain West Conference, the decision will have significant implications for the Huskies, the MAC, and the MWC.
The addition of NIU as a football-only member would bolster the MWCโs football profile and provide stability amid ongoing conference realignments. However, the future of NIUโs non-football sports programs remains uncertain, adding complexity to the decision-making process.
For more details on this developing story, visit CBS Sports.

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