The Mountain West Conference, long viewed as a competitive mid-major football league, is riding a wave of rising momentum that has positioned some of its teams for greater ambitions, including potential interest from power conferences like the SEC. This shift, driven by a mix of strong performances on the field, improved recruiting, and increased visibility, is sparking conversations about how far the top Mountain West programs can ascend.
### Strong Performances and Consistency
One of the key reasons behind the Mountain West’s growing credibility is the consistent success of its top teams. Programs like Boise State, San Diego State, and Fresno State have been mainstays in the national conversation, regularly appearing in bowl games and occasionally contending for New Year’s Six spots. Boise State, in particular, has long been the standard-bearer for the conference, dating back to its famous Fiesta Bowl win over Oklahoma in 2007. Other teams, such as Air Force and Wyoming, have also contributed to the conference’s competitive depth, making it harder for Power Five opponents to overlook Mountain West talent.
These consistent performances have garnered national respect and elevated the entire conference’s profile. The Mountain West’s brand has benefited from high-profile non-conference victories, which have proven that its teams can compete with and even defeat teams from Power Five leagues. In some cases, Mountain West squads have upset ranked teams, further cementing their reputation as dangerous opponents.
### Improved Recruiting
Another factor fueling the rise of Mountain West programs is improved recruiting. While the conference may not pull in five-star recruits at the same level as SEC or Big Ten schools, many Mountain West teams have been able to identify and develop talent that fits their systems. This success can be attributed to a combination of better scouting, player development, and coaching stability. Coaches like Boise State’s Andy Avalos and Fresno State’s Jeff Tedford have created environments that attract top-tier talent within their recruiting regions, capitalizing on the ability to offer players immediate playing time and the chance to compete on a national stage.
Additionally, the transfer portal has become a valuable tool for Mountain West programs to strengthen their rosters. The ability to pick up players from Power Five conferences who are looking for more playing time has allowed these schools to fill key positional gaps with high-level talent, further boosting their competitiveness.
### Increased Visibility and Ambitions
As the Mountain West’s stature has risen, so too has its visibility. Improved television contracts, streaming deals, and regular primetime matchups have brought the conference’s games into more homes across the country. This increased exposure is critical in recruiting and also puts the conference in a better position for future realignment conversations.
With conference realignment reshaping the landscape of college football, some Mountain West teams may have their eyes set on joining a Power Five conference. The Southeastern Conference (SEC), in particular, could become an intriguing destination for one or two Mountain West programs, given the allure of competing at the highest level. While the path to the SEC is a long shot for most, programs like Boise State, with its national brand and consistent success, could at least be considered in expansion talks if the SEC looks to stretch its geographic footprint westward.
### The Path to Trophy Wins
Ultimately, Mountain West teams are focused on winning championships within their own conference, but many have broader ambitions. With the College Football Playoff set to expand, these programs are no longer limited to just New Year’s Six bowl aspirations. An undefeated or one-loss Mountain West champion could potentially crack the expanded playoff field, putting them in contention for a national title in ways that weren’t possible before.
In conclusion, the Mountain West’s rise is fueling dreams of greater achievements. Whether through continued conference dominance, playoff appearances, or even the distant possibility of joining the SEC, the Mountain West’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. The conference and its top teams are poised to turn heads for years to come.