CLEVELAND – The Mid-American Conference today announced the addition of Sacramento State as a football-only member beginning July 1, 2026.
 
"Today's exciting announcement is about strengthening our competitive profile and creating value for the membership," said MAC Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher. "We were presented with an opportunity to add an institution with demonstrated success in football, a record of investment and commitment to the continued growth of the institution and community.  Sacramento State is ready and poised for this next step.  I welcome the Hornets to the Mid-American Conference and expect they will become a competitive and contributing member to the long history and legacy of one of the oldest Division I conferences."
 
The Sacramento State football program has won seven conference titles, including three consecutive Big Sky championships from 2019-2022, and was just one of just 12 FCS programs to win at least seven games in five of the last six seasons. During that time, the Hornets made four NCAA FCS Playoff appearances and held a top-25 ranking for 50 weeks.
 
"This partnership will immediately strengthen the Mid-American Conference's competitiveness, and it will provide flexibility for the future," said Geoffrey S. Mearns, Council of Presidents Chair and President of Ball State University. "In this period of dynamic transformation, we believe we must be proactive and innovative. This relationship demonstrates the enduring viability of our conference, and it provides our member institutions with additional confidence."
 
"I am pleased to welcome Sacramento State to the Mid-American Conference," said Scott Wetherbee, Chair of the MAC Council of Directors of Athletics and Vice President/Director of Athletics at Eastern Michigan University. "I want to commend Commissioner Steinbrecher for his forward-thinking leadership and creative approach in identifying opportunities that enhance value for our membership. The addition of Sacramento State as a football-only member strengthens our conference and positions us well for continued collective success."
 
Sacramento State is the only public university in the capital of California that has the world's fourth-largest economy. Founded in 1947, Sac State has grown into one of the region's leading centers of research, innovation and community engagement with an enrollment of nearly 31,000.  It is an accessible and inclusive place of learning, located on a picturesque campus along the American River.
 
"This is a historic moment for Sacramento State — a bold leap into the future," said Dr. Luke Wood, President of Sacramento State. "Our move to the FBS represents more than a change in classification; it is a declaration of who we are and where we're going. We are elevating our university, our student-athletes, and the entire Greater Sacramento region onto the national stage — committed to competing, leading, and winning at the highest level.
 
"This is bigger than football. It's about opportunity, visibility, and momentum. It's about attracting the next generation of students, fueling enrollment and innovation, and building partnerships that will transform Sacramento State for decades to come. Together, we are proving that belief, vision, and hard work can redefine what's possible.
 
"We extend our sincere gratitude to the MAC Commissioner and the MAC university presidents for their leadership, trust, and confidence in our program. The future is bright, the mission is clear, and the climb continues."
 
"This is a special day for Sacramento State. I am ecstatic for our football student-athletes, coaches, and staff who work so hard to represent our University," said Sacramento State Director of Athletics Mark Orr. "Our student athletes will now have the opportunity to showcase their talent on the highest level of college football in front of national audiences. I am grateful to Commissioner Steinbrecher, the University Presidents, and all the dedicated staff that played a pivotal role in making this possible. The support for our football program continues to expand, and we are so proud to bring FBS football to Sacramento."
 

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF MOVING TO FBS

The five-year agreement increases the value of Sacramento State (study by Collegiate Consulting):

• Athletic economic impact increases to $975 million
• National broadcast valuation grows to $675 million
• Game day economic revenue rises to $46 million
• New revenue starting in 2027, 15% will go towards Academic Affairs

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING

"Moving to the MAC is a great opportunity for Sacramento State. The MAC has a long history of amazing coaches and players who have achieved success at the highest level of football. We look forward to the challenges in front of us and are excited to guide the Hornets into this new era."
Alonzo Carter, Saramento State Head Football Coach

"Sacramento State's elevation to the FBS is a transformative milestone for both the university and the Greater Sacramento region. Major college athletics are powerful economic drivers — increasing national visibility, attracting investment, strengthening enrollment and energizing hospitality, tourism and small businesses. This move elevates Sacramento's competitive position as a top-tier market and signals to the nation that our university and our region are ready to compete at the highest level. FBS football will strengthen our workforce pipeline, expand our brand and generate long-term economic momentum that benefits the entire Greater Sacramento region. "
Barry Broome, President & CEO, Greater Sacramento Economic Council

"Transitioning Sacramento State football to the FBS level will grow national exposure to the Sacramento market, and increased visibility for our city has been a proven tool in helping us to attract new sporting events, music festivals, and conventions, along with the associated visitor spending. By playing opponents with higher profiles, deeper fan bases, and larger traveling parties on game days, the direct economic impacts of college football in Sacramento are expected to rise and it would be our local businesses and residents who benefit from an increase in visitation."
Mike Testa, President & CEO Visit Sacramento

"As someone who had the privilege of playing in the NFL, I know firsthand what it takes to compete at the highest level of football and what that platform can mean for a young athlete's life. Moving Sacramento State to the FBS isn't just about football — it's about raising standards, creating opportunity, and giving our student-athletes national exposure right here at home. Sacramento has always had NFL-caliber talent, passion, and pride. This move signals that we're ready to step onto the biggest stage in college football and show the country what our university and our region are capable of."
Rick Jennings, Sacramento City Councilmember and former NFL player

"If Sacramento State had been FBS when I was coming out of high school, I would have seriously considered staying home. This move keeps elite football in our region, and gives local student-athletes the chance to compete at the highest level in front of their families, friends and local community. Our Family is proud to support the next generation of athletes and football players at Sacramento State."
Arik Armstead, Jacksonville Jaguar & Sacramento area native

"FBS football elevates the entire Sacramento brand. When you compete on the national stage, you attract investment, development, and talent. This move positions Sacramento State and the city of Sacramento as a destination for growth, hospitality, and transformative mixed-use development. As someone who was closely involved in the development of Golden 1 Center, I understand the importance of elevating sports for economic vitality and could not be prouder of our capital city University."
Mark Freidman, CEO & Founder Fulcrum Property

"Sacramento State's transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision is an exciting development for our region. The move further strengthens Sacramento's sports landscape and reinforces the city's position as a leading sports market."
Matina Kolokotronis, Chief Operating Officer, Sacramento Kings

"FBS football brings energy and activation to downtown Sacramento. Game days mean visitors in our hotels, restaurants, and businesses. It's about vibrancy, economic impact, and putting Sacramento in the national sports conversation. Capital cities who play big time college football bring vibrancy and energy, transforming urban cores."
Michael Ault, Executive Director, Downtown Sacramento Partnerships

"This is a historic milestone not only for Sacramento State, but for the entre Capital Region. Elevating to the Football Bowl Subdivision strengthens regional pride, drives new economic activity, and brings increased national visibility to our community. Investments that elevate our higher education institutions also strengthen our workforce pipeline and reinforce Sacramento's position as a great place to live, learn, and do business."
Robert Heidt, President & CEO, Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce

"As someone who wore the Hornet uniform and loves Sacramento, this move is personal. FBS football opens doors for student-athletes and raises the standard of excellence. It shows how far Sacramento State has come and validates all the hard work our alumni has put in over the years."
Otis Amey, Sacramento State All-American & NFL Veteran

"The elevation and growth of the football program has been amazing to see over the last decade and as a proud alumni I'm excited to see the football program compete at the highest level of college football! Coach Carter and the Hornets are more than ready to compete and win week in and week out at the FBS level!"
DeAndre Carter, Sacramento State All-American & Cleveland Brown

"Big thanks to the Big Sky Conference for being a great conference for myself and Sac State in the FCS. I'm very excited to watch the fellas play on a bigger stage and have Sac State grow into a great FBS program."
Jackson Slater, Sacramento State All-American & Tennessee Titan

"Wow how amazing is that? Those were the first words out of my mouth when I found out Sacramento State was going to the FBS. All I could think about is all the hard work and dedication that the coaches who were there coaching me like Bob Mattos, Mike Clemons, Gary Quattrin, the Plumbtree brothers, just to name a few. Clyde, who worked in equipment office for over 50 years. and not to mention the people off the field like a Judy Quattrin and a host of other administrators at Sacramento State. This step up is truly an honor and a privilege and I really believe the community and the Sac State alumni are going to get behind this and be proud to be a part of the Sacramento State Hornets. It's like waking up a sleeping giant."
Lorenzo Lynch, Sacramento State graduate & 11-year NFL veteran

"As a former Hornet, it's humbling to see Sacramento State take this step to the FBS level. This moment belongs to the generations of players and coaches who built the foundation and set the standard for the program. Their commitment and belief made this milestone possible, and it's a proud day for our alumni and the Sacramento community."
Zack Nash, Sacramento State All-American & NFL veteran

"My memory is the 1995 team who won the American Conference Championship ln football our first in 1-AA! The team that saved football at Sac State! The foundation for D-1. The dream is here. FBS all the away! Thank you Mark Orr and Dr. Wood!"
John Volek, Former Sacramento State head coach

"Sacramento State's move from the FCS to the FBS marks a defining moment in the trajectory of our university and football program. This transition elevates our national profile, strengthens institutional growth, and reinforces our commitment to competing at the highest level of college athletics. For our program's legacy, it represents the next chapter—honoring the foundation that was built while moving into a future defined by greater opportunity and exposure. As an alumni, this move is a source of pride and unity, signaling that Sacramento State is ready to stand on a bigger stage and carry our city with us."
Todd Davis, Former Sacramento State All-American & 7-year NFL veteran

"Sac State's move to FBS and the MAC is monumental and well deserved for the Hornet football program and the entire Sacramento community. This move speaks to the success of the program in recent years and the commitment the university and community is investing into the future of the football program. While the Big Sky Conference has long been one of the most competitive leagues in the FCS, stepping up to the FBS will elevate our level of play and open the door to bigger challenges on the national stage. I'm excited for our new head coach, Coach Carter and looking forward to an action packed season ahead!"
Brandon Smith, Sacramento State graduate & 12-year CFL veteran

"In 1997, I remember my father and coach Visgar building the old weight room by hand. We had to sell 10 tee shirts to get our mandatory travel outfit and our meal room that included 5lbs of PB&J's and a soda machine. Even with those limited resources, we competed just as hard as anyone in the Big Sky and got all we could out of our collegiate experience. The foundation was laid and the price was paid for this next generation of Sac State student-athletes to complete at a national level. The impact of Sac State's move to the MAC conference cannot be overstated. I couldn't be more excited for the future of our beloved Hornet Football program."
Lonie Paxton, Sacramento State graduate & 12-year NFL veteran

"Sacramento State becoming an FBS university is a historic milestone. This achievement elevates our capital city on the national stage and reinforces Sacramento's leadership in education, innovation, and community growth, especially as it relates to our sports economy. I'm extremely proud of Sacramento State and the leadership team for making this ambitious goal a reality."
Doris Matsui, United States Congresswoman

"Sacramento State's transition to FBS marks a significant achievement for the university and the region. Competing at the highest level of college football raises Sacramento's national profile and expands opportunities for students and the community. After testifying in Congress and showing our nation, the Sacramento region deserves a shot, I am pleased to see a conference invitation in our state capital University. What President Wood and the leadership team have done at Sacramento State is transformational and will change the trajectory of Hornet athletics forever."
Kevin Kiley, United States Congressman

"Sacramento State's move to the Football Bowl Subdivision represents opportunity — for students, for our region, and for future generations. This milestone puts Sacramento on the national stage and demonstrates what's possible when we invest in education and community."
Angelique Ashby, California State Senator, Majority Leader

"Sacramento State's move to FBS represents opportunity — for students, for our region, and for future generations. This milestone puts Sacramento on the national stage and demonstrates what's possible when we invest in education and community. I could not be prouder of my alma mater."
Stephanie Nguyen, California State Assemblymember

"This historic move shows Sacramento State is thinking boldly. As a Hornet alumnus, I could not be more enthusiastic about this transition for the university and football players who now get to compete at the highest level. FBS football increases national exposure and strengthens our regional economy while keeping student success at the center. This economic impact will be felt not only in Sacramento, but also to my district in Roseville and beyond. Congratulations and Stingers up!"
Joe Patterson, California State Assemblymember, Sacramento State alumnus

"Sacramento State's move to the Football Bowl Subdivision is a transformational moment for our capital city. It strengthens tourism, drives economic development, and positions Sacramento as a true national sports market. This is history in the making."
Kevin McCarty, Sacramento Mayor

"Stingers up! As a proud Sacramento State alumnus, we are so excited for the University as they make their transition to FBS football driving regional development. Increased visitation and investment ripple throughout our cities, supporting growth and opportunity all the way to Elk Grove."
Bobbie Singh Allen, Elk Grove Mayor & Sacramento State alumnus

"As a Sacramento State graduate and a parent of two collegiate athletes, I understand the commitment and preparation it takes to compete at that level. Our son made the transition from high school football to college competition, and that perspective shapes how I see this moment for Sacramento State. The move toward FBS competition is an important step forward, not just for the university but for our entire region. It reflects the growth and ambition of Sacramento State and reinforces Sacramento and Roseville as a destination for top-tier athletic competition and economic opportunity."
Krista Bernasconi, Roseville Mayor

"I'm proud to see Sacramento State transition to the highest level of college football. This is exciting news not only for the many Sacramento State alumni who call the Rancho Cordova home, but for our entire region. The continued elevation of a university in our backyard strengthens our economy, deepens community pride, and showcases the momentum happening across Greater Sacramento. Congratulations to the students, alumni, faculty, and fans — the future is bright."
Garrett Gatewood, Rancho Cordova Mayor & Sacramento State alumnus

"Moving into the FBS creates a huge opportunity for the economic development of our city and gives an enormous opportunity for our students to compete at a higher level. The fact that the FBS grows the media market and helps the long term financial outlook of the university, makes this a win-win and a great move for everyone. Let's Go Sacramento!"
Eric Guerra, Sacramento State Councilmember & Sacramento State alumnus

"Let's go! As a proud Sacramento State alumnus, I see this transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision as more than an athletic milestone — it's a defining moment in our university's evolution. Moving to FBS places Sac State on a national stage, strengthens our brand, and creates new opportunities for student-athletes, alumni, and the entire Sacramento region. This is about visibility, competitiveness, and long-term growth. I'm incredibly proud to see my alma mater step boldly into this next chapter and solidify its place among the nation's premier programs. Hell yeah!"
Phil Pluckebaum, Sacramento State Councilmember & Sacramento State alumnus
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When will Sacramento State begin playing in the MAC?
The Hornets will join the MAC on July 1, 2026. The team will play as 12-game schedule during the 2026 season with eight MAC games and four non-conference games. The complete schedule will be announced at a later date.

Who is in the MAC?
There will be 13 football-playing schools in the MAC for the 2026 season comprised of Akron, Ball State, Bowling Green, Buffalo, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Kent State, UMass, Miami, Ohio, Toledo and Western Michigan.

What networks televise MAC football games?
The MAC has a television contract to show conference games on ESPN networks, ESPN+ and CBS Sports Network. The television exposure of MACtion was a key factor for Sacramento State's membership in the MAC.

How will the cost to transition to the FBS be paid?
The funding will come from game guarantees, a contract in college athletics where one school agrees to pay another school a set amount of money to play a game — usually at the paying school's home venue. By being in the MAC, our game guarantee value is significantly higher than as an FCS school. In addition, funding will come from football revenue, corporate partnerships, and ticket sales. Sacramento State athletics will have access to pouring rights, merchandise, parking revenue, and food and beverage revenue for the first time this upcoming season. Sacramento State will not use state funds to pay for the move to the MAC.

When will Sacramento State become bowl eligible?
The NCAA requires a two-year transition period for teams reclassifying from FCS to FBS. The restriction also makes the Hornets ineligible to compete in the MAC championship game for two years. However, if there are not enough bowl eligible teams, Sacramento State could be selected for a bowl game during the two-year period.

Does the MAC has access to the College Football Playoff?
Yes. The highest-ranked team from the Group of 6 conferences will get the automatic bid to the College Football Playoff. The Group of 6 is made up of the American, Conference USA, MAC, Mountain West, Pac-12 and Sun Belt conferences.

How can I purchase season tickets for 2026?
A $100 per seat deposit can secure your seat for all home games next season.

Will students still get free tickets to home games?
Sacramento State students will continue to receive free admission to all home regular-season home events.

How are other Sacramento State sports affected?
The majority of the other Hornet team sports will become a member of The Big West on July 1, 2026. The move to the MAC will be for football only.

How can fans support the FBS move?
Fans can donate to the Stinger Fund to directly support the move to the MAC by funding scholarships, facility improvements and NIL.

Where is the campus with the stadium plan?
The campus is actively finalizing the evaluation of a new stadium at Cal Expo. In the interim, the University is readying our current stadium to be ready for FBS for 2026. This is a temporary upgrade as the on-campus stadium is comprised of temporary stands that are near end of practical use.