MWC dissolution: 3 imminent conference realignment moves that could shake up G5 as Pac-12 rebuilds 

An MWC dissolution is probable as the Pac-12 expansion threatens to wipe out the conference. Last week, the MWC lost four programs—Fresno State, San Diego State, Boise State and Colorado State—to the Pac-12.

On Monday, Commissioner Gloria Nevarez's conference suffered another blow as the Utah State Aggies departed for the Pac-12. This move leaves members like Air Force and UNLV shaky regarding their MWC allegiance.

According to the conference's regulations, the MWC can dissolve without notice or exit fees if nine programs choose to depart the group.

The following three MWC moves could trigger another significant Group of Five realignment.

#3. Nevada to Pac-12/AAC

The Nevada Wolf Pack are not a coveted Mountain West Conference program, yet they could play a big part in its dissolution. The conference's by-laws require nine of its twelve members to agree to disband the conference.

The Air Force Falcons and the UNLV Rebels are seen as the conference's next departures, and Nevada's exit vote could dissolve the MWC.

#2. Air Force to AAC

According to a Yahoo Sports report, AAC Commissioner Tim Pernetti recently discussed adding the Air Force Falcons to his conference.

Although the Falcons signed a solidarity agreement with the Mountain West Conference on Monday, reports have indicated their commitment is wavering.

A move by the Falcons could trigger the MWC dissolution as the conference nears the nine member threshold required to disband. An AAC move also means the Air Force Falcons, the Navy Midshipmen and the Army Black Knights will play in the same conference for the first time.

#1. UNLV to Pac-12 could lead to MWC dissolution

According to the same Yahoo report, the UNLV Rebels hold the Mountain West Conference's fate in their hands. Although the Rebels also signed the document affirming their allegiance to the conference, their stance changed once Utah State left for the Pac-12.

“Utah State was waiting for UNLV to sign before signing. When UNLV signed, Utah State did not.” Stated a league official

In addition, a preexisting agreement between the Pac-12 and the MWC stated that the latter would pay the former a penalty of up to $11 million for every program they poached. Due to its nine-member agreement this would cause the MWC dissolution.

“That’s the play, honestly.” says one athletic director with knowledge of the situation.

UNLV joining the Pac-12 would make the conference FBS-compliant with eight members, months before their July 2026 NCAA deadline.