Sacramento State set to join MAC as Hornets make jump to FBS in 2026, per reports
CBS Sports
by
Cameron Salerno
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sacramento State is set to make a significant leap in college football by joining the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as a football-only member starting in 2026, following reports that outline their $18 million entry fee. This move comes after Northern Illinois announced its departure from the MAC to join the Mountain West conference as a football-only member. Sac State will replace Northern Illinois and compete at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level for the first time, marking a major shift in their athletic program's trajectory.
The transition for Sacramento State involves more than just conference realignment. The school has already made strides in preparing for this move, including securing a new head coach in Alonzo Carter, who brings deep recruiting ties to California and experience under Brent Brennan at San Jose State and Arizona. Additionally, the Hornets have allocated over $1 million toward NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) initiatives, reflecting their commitment to modernizing their football program.
Sacramento State’s journey to the FBS began after they were denied a waiver to join as an independent following their decision to leave the Big Sky Conference. They spent one final season in the Big Sky before transitioning to the MAC. The school has also announced several future matchups, including games against Tarleton State, Maine, North Alabama, and Fresno State.
This move is significant for both Sac State and the MAC, as it signals a shift in the balance of power within college football. By bringing in a team like Sacramento State, the MAC aims to strengthen its competitive landscape while providing opportunities for FCS programs like North Dakota State to also elevate their profiles. The transition highlights the growing emphasis on NIL programs and recruitment strategies as key factors in building successful football programs.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/15/2026