Northern Illinois will join the Mountain West as a football-only member in 2026, marking a significant move amidst ongoing conference realignment in college sports.
NIU athletic director Sean T. Frazier emphasized the opportunity this move presents, stating it allows NIU Athletics to adapt and expand within the evolving landscape of college athletics.
Mountain West commissioner Gloria Nevarez expressed excitement about NIU joining, highlighting the school's football success and commitment to academic excellence as key considerations for their inclusion.
While NIU football joins the Mountain West, the future of its other sports remains uncertain, with the school reviewing options within the Mid-American Conference and other multi-sport conferences.
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