Conference USA Commissioner Judy MacLeod didn’t mince words at the league’s media day on Tuesday, July 21, diving straight into the hot topic everyone’s buzzing about: conference expansion. In an ever-shifting college sports landscape, when she got hit with the expansion question, her answer was crystal clear. She said they’re “always going to explore,” but get this: they’re gonna do it “in a very strategic way.” You hear that? Strategic. Not just throwing darts at a board, but a real plan.
CUSA’s New Look: Smallest in the Game?
So, here’s the deal: CUSA is currently rocking just 10 teams, with Missouri State in the mix. Think about that for a second. Ten teams! That’s the fewest number of squads playing FBS football in any league out there, besides the Mountain West in its revamped form, which now features former Missouri State FCS rival North Dakota State. Seriously, ten teams! It makes you wonder how that “very strategic way” is going to play out when they’re already so lean. MacLeod, however, sounds pretty pumped about the current setup, saying, “We are very happy with the 10 and this is a very committed group that is working very well together.” That’s a strong statement from the boss, especially when you consider what just went down.
Exits and Explosive Newcomers
Remember how big the conference was? Well, not anymore. Louisiana Tech and UTEP both bounced after the 2025-26 school year. The Bulldogs packed their bags for the Sun Belt, and the Miners headed off to the Mountain West. That’s two major departures, but MacLeod still says expansion is “always something that we will examine and explore.” What really has her pumped, though, is how the newer teams are performing. Missouri State, which came in as the 12th team back in May 2024, got a massive shoutout from the commissioner. She was absolutely thrilled with their success in year one, which even included a bowl victory over Arkansas State! MacLeod was “really proud that our new members have come in ready to compete.” So, while some are leaving, the ones stepping up are making a real impact.
With Louisiana Tech and UTEP out the door and a committed core of 10 teams, the big question remains: what does “strategic” expansion actually look like for CUSA? MacLeod says they’re always exploring, so you gotta wonder what kind of moves they’ll make next to grow the league without losing that tight-knit vibe she’s so proud of. Keep your eyes peeled, because if that Missouri State success is any indicator, CUSA isn’t backing down, no matter who leaves.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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