The Mountain West Conference will enter the 2026 football season with a dramatically different roster, after Boise State, Fresno State, Colorado State, San Diego State and Utah State moved on to the Pac‑12. In their place, ten programs — Air Force, Hawaiʻi, Nevada, New Mexico, Northern Illinois, North Dakota State, San José State, UNLV, UTEP and Wyoming — will battle for supremacy.
Analysts say the upcoming campaign is among the most unpredictable in recent memory, with no single program emerging as a clear frontrunner.
A wide‑open battlefield
New Mexico arrives as a preseason favorite, earning 16 selections and relying on standouts such as Cade Keith, Troy Omeire, Malik Aliane, Jaxton Eck and Brian Booker. Meanwhile, UNLV hopes to become the new face of the league, leveraging a talented roster, strong coaching and the resources of Las Vegas.
North Dakota State brings a championship pedigree from the FCS, importing a culture of toughness and discipline that could unsettle traditional powers.
San José State, under coach Ken Niumatalolo, continues to earn respect, while Air Force, Wyoming and Nevada look to rebound, with the Falcons known for their option offense and disciplined defense.
UTEP, now led by Scotty Walden, and Northern Illinois, guided by Dan Mullen, add depth and history to the mix, promising fresh storylines for fans across the country.