PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State and Oregon State have decided on expansion, rather than diffusion.
So, for now, the Pac-12 conference will live on.
But like just about everything else in the college football world, it’s going to have a pretty different look.
“Well, I think at some point, you know, we need to grab ahold of our future and create it,” said head coach Jake Dickert.
Rather than waiting for another conference to come knocking at the door, WSU opened the door themselves, welcoming in four Mountain West Conference teams to the Pac-12.
Dickert said the administration felt this expansion was urgent.
“I know there’s tons of work behind the scenes to forge a new future for the Pac-12 and I think adding four teams was obviously what they felt was best in those moments.”
However, the conference additions aren’t changing Dickert’s focus.
“The only thing I’m focused on once again is us, you know what are we going to do to advance, to stay ahead… because those are four teams that we’ve worked for a long time to stay ahead of, without a doubt,” Dickert said.
With a slate of Mountain West games in front of the Cougars – the chance to stay ahead of these teams is at their fingertips.
“I mean, there’s some dudes in the Mountain West, there’s no drop-off. I mean they might have a smaller reputation…as programs… but I mean they’re good,” said offensive lineman Brock Dieu.
The team is preparing for San Jose State this Friday the same way they have been for every other team: as a nameless, faceless opponent.
“I wouldn’t consider it a step down at all. We’re fully aware of what’s headed our way and we’re more than ready for it.”
At least two more additions to the Pac-12 are inevitable if the conference wants to meet NCAA and FBS requirements. If the Pac-12 has a chance at earning back their “power conference” status, they need to add teams that will add significant value and give the conference an enticing look for TV deals.
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