Texas State’s Bold Pac-12 Bid: Football Focus and Ambitious Goals

Texas State University just pulled off a bold move, landing itself a spot in the prestigious Pac-12 Conference and stepping away from its Sun Belt roots. The university sent a 13-page pitch to the Pac-12, laying out its game plan—big investments in athletics, some demographic advantages, and a clear hunger to grow.

Let’s dig into the highlights of Texas State’s pitch and what it could mean for both the university and the Pac-12.

Strategic Investments and Revenue Sharing

Texas State’s proposal leans hard on strategic investments and a fresh take on revenue sharing. The school plans to boost its athletics budget, especially for football and men’s basketball. They’re looking to grow the revenue-sharing budget from $4 million in 2026 to $7.2 million by 2029.

Football and Men’s Basketball Budgets

The football program’s budget nearly doubles, jumping from $2.5 million to $4.9 million. Men’s basketball also gets a bump, going from $600,000 to $1.1 million.

With these investments, Texas State wants to become a real contender in the Pac-12.

Capital Gifts and Facility Upgrades

The university expects $75 million in capital gifts over the next ten years. Major projects include a $45 million suite and club area at UFCU Stadium and a $25 million indoor practice facility.

They hope to start building around 2027, which should give the athletic facilities a serious facelift.

Commitment to Athletic Excellence

Texas State’s pitch really leans into its commitment to football. GJ Kinne sits as the Sun Belt’s highest-paid coach, and the football budget is set to grow from $14.1 million to $20 million between 2024 and 2027.

They’re clearly aiming for long-term success in the Pac-12.

Performance Goals

Texas State isn’t shy about its goals:

• Win at least four conference titles in football
• Make one College Football Playoff appearance in the next decade
• Reach seven or more NCAA Tournaments in men’s and women’s basketball
• Keep a winning record against in-state Group of 5 peers
• Compete on the recruiting trail with top Texas schools

Demographic and Geographic Advantages

San Marcos, Texas State’s home base, sits between Austin and San Antonio and is within 250 miles of Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth. That’s a prime spot, offering the Pac-12 a strong entry into Texas and access to new, sports-hungry audiences.

Enrollment Growth

The university wants to grow enrollment from 41,000 to 50,000. With its location, that’s not a stretch, and more students mean more fans in the stands.

That kind of growth could boost both academic and athletic prestige, making Texas State a solid addition to the Pac-12.

Philosophical Alignment and Future Aspirations

The proposal also touches on shared values with the Pac-12. Texas State wants to build a future with like-minded schools, all chasing a common mission.

There’s a real belief here in the power of education and athletics to change lives.

Innovative Revenue-Sharing Model

The Bobcats’ revenue-sharing model aims to set Texas State apart from non-autonomy peers. They’re hoping this approach will help them compete with the state’s autonomy institutions.

It’s an ambitious plan, and if it works, it could help fuel both Texas State’s rise and the Pac-12’s next chapter.

Conclusion

Texas State really went for it with their pitch to join the Pac-12 Conference. The university’s bold goals and big investments show just how serious they are about athletics.

They’ve leaned into their demographic and geographic strengths, hoping to shake things up in the Pac-12. If you’re curious about the details, the full article lives on the New York Times website.