Sacramento State Ascends to FBS Football, Joining the Mid-American Conference

A new era for Sacramento State football officially began on Monday, February 16, 2026, as the university accepted an invitation to join the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as a football-only member, beginning with the 2026 season. The move marks a historic step for the Hornets, becoming the first California program in nearly 60 years to transition from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

A Vision Realized

Sacramento State President Dr. Luke Wood and Athletics Director Mark Orr shared their excitement during a Zoom conference call, emphasizing the significance of the move. “The MAC wanted us. We were a big appeal to them,” stated Wood. The decision follows a waiver request to the NCAA being denied last summer, prompting a focused effort to secure a conference invitation.

Financial Implications and Transition Costs

The transition to FBS comes with a substantial financial commitment. Sac State will pay an $18 million entrance fee to the MAC, along with a $5 million reclassification fee to the NCAA. The university plans to cover $6 million of the entrance fee in 2026, with the remainder paid over five years. Notably, Wood and Orr affirmed that student fees, tuition dollars, and state funds will not be utilized for these entry costs. Funding will be sourced from football-generated revenue, ticket sales, and corporate sponsorships.

Logistical Challenges and Conference Fit

The MAC’s geographic footprint, primarily located in the Midwest and Great Lakes region, presents logistical challenges for Sac State. Travel costs for opposing teams visiting Hornet Stadium are estimated to be between $150,000 and $200,000 per game in 2026, a cost Sac State has agreed to cover. The Hornets will fill out a 12-game schedule, with the remaining four games to be determined by Orr.

Economic Impact and Regional Growth

The move to FBS is projected to significantly boost Sacramento State’s economic impact. According to an Intercollegiate Athletic Economic Impact Study, the university’s annual athletics economic impact is expected to triple to $975 million. National broadcast valuation is projected to grow to $675 million, and game-day economic revenue is anticipated to rise to $46 million. Wood highlighted the move as an “economic development strategy” and a means of enhancing the university’s national brand recognition.

A New Coach and a New Stadium

Alonzo Carter, hired in December 2025 to lead the football program, will guide the Hornets through this transition. Sacramento State is also exploring the construction of a new football stadium at Cal Expo, with a goal of opening a 25,000-seat facility in time for the Fall 2026 season. Athletics Director Mark Orr believes the new stadium is crucial for competing at the highest level of Division I athletics.

Looking Ahead

The Hornets’ move to the MAC represents a culmination of years of effort and a testament to the vision of President Wood and Athletic Director Orr. As Orr stated, “We’re now in the FBS for the long haul…I have no doubt people will come out and support it.” The transition promises to elevate Sacramento State’s profile, strengthen its ties to the Sacramento region, and provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete on the national stage.