Missouri State Football: Is Conference USA A Possibility?

Hey football fans! Let's dive into a hot topic: Missouri State University (MSU) football potentially joining Conference USA. Is it a realistic move? What would it mean for the Bears? Let's break it down.

The Current Landscape for Missouri State Football

Currently, Missouri State competes in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC), which is part of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The MVFC is known for its tough competition and strong football programs. Programs like North Dakota State have dominated the FCS landscape for years, consistently making deep playoff runs. For Missouri State, being in the MVFC means facing these powerhouses week in and week out. This level of competition, while challenging, has also helped the Bears elevate their own program. In recent years, under the guidance of coach Bobby Petrino and now Ryan Beard, Missouri State has shown flashes of brilliance, including a memorable season with a playoff appearance. They've proven they can compete with the best in the FCS, but the ultimate goal is to take that next step and consistently contend for championships. The MVFC, with its established programs and tradition, provides a solid foundation for Missouri State. However, the allure of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the opportunities that come with it, like increased revenue and national exposure, are hard to ignore. The move to Conference USA would represent a significant leap, bringing new challenges and possibilities for the Bears.

What is Conference USA?

Conference USA (CUSA) is an FBS conference that has seen its fair share of changes in recent years due to realignment. After several teams departed for other conferences, CUSA has been rebuilding, adding new members and aiming to solidify its position in the FBS landscape. Currently, the conference comprises schools like Liberty, New Mexico State, Western Kentucky, and others. These schools come from diverse geographic locations and bring their unique strengths to the conference. CUSA is striving to enhance its national profile and provide its member institutions with better opportunities for growth and development. The conference understands the importance of stability and is actively working to create a strong, competitive environment for its teams. With new leadership and a renewed focus on strategic growth, CUSA is looking to attract programs that can contribute to its long-term success. This makes it an interesting option for schools like Missouri State, who are looking to elevate their athletic programs and gain access to a broader platform. The potential benefits of joining CUSA include increased media exposure, higher revenue streams, and the chance to compete against a different set of opponents, all of which can contribute to the overall growth and visibility of the university.

Why Would Missouri State Consider Moving?

There are several compelling reasons why Missouri State might consider a move to Conference USA. The most significant factor is the jump to the FBS level. This move brings increased media exposure, larger potential revenue streams, and the chance to compete against bigger programs on a national stage. Imagine the Bears playing on ESPN or CBS Sports Network regularly – that's the kind of visibility that can transform a program and a university. Moreover, being in the FBS allows for more scholarships, better facilities, and an overall upgrade in the resources available to the football program. This can attract higher-caliber recruits and coaching staff, leading to sustained success on the field. Another factor to consider is the changing landscape of college athletics. With name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal becoming increasingly important, schools need to be in a position to compete financially and attract talent. The move to an FBS conference like CUSA can provide the necessary financial boost to stay competitive in this new era. Furthermore, the geographic footprint of CUSA could be appealing to Missouri State. It would open up new recruiting markets and provide opportunities for the university to expand its brand recognition. While the MVFC is a strong conference, the limitations of the FCS level might eventually push Missouri State to seek greener pastures in the FBS.

The Pros and Cons of Joining Conference USA

Let's break down the pros and cons of Missouri State joining Conference USA:

Pros:

• Increased Revenue: FBS schools generally receive larger media rights deals and more lucrative bowl game payouts.
• Enhanced Exposure: Playing on national television more frequently can significantly boost the university's profile.
• Better Recruiting: The allure of playing FBS football can attract higher-rated recruits.
• Improved Facilities: Increased revenue can be reinvested in upgrading athletic facilities.
• Conference USA is rebuilding: MSU can be a big fish in a small pond

Cons:

• Increased Competition: The FBS level is a significant step up in competition from the FCS.
• Higher Expenses: Maintaining an FBS program requires significant financial investment.
• Travel Costs: Conference USA's geographic footprint could lead to increased travel expenses.
• Risk of Relegation: If MSU does not perform well, there is risk to get kicked out of the conference.

What Would It Take for Missouri State to Make the Jump?

For Missouri State to make the jump to Conference USA, several key pieces would need to fall into place. First and foremost, the university would need to demonstrate a strong commitment to football. This includes investing in facilities, coaching staff, and student-athlete support services. A comprehensive plan outlining how the university intends to fund and sustain an FBS program is crucial. Conference USA would want to see that Missouri State is not just making a short-term commitment but is in it for the long haul. Secondly, Missouri State would need to show that it can be competitive on the field. While past performance is not the only factor, a track record of success in the MVFC would certainly help. Consistent winning seasons, playoff appearances, and a strong recruiting base would signal that the Bears are ready to compete at the FBS level. Thirdly, the university's overall academic profile and institutional stability would be important considerations. Conference USA would want to ensure that Missouri State aligns with the conference's values and academic standards. A strong academic reputation and a stable administrative structure would demonstrate that Missouri State is a well-rounded institution capable of thriving in the FBS environment. Finally, fan support and community engagement would play a significant role. Conference USA would want to see that Missouri State has a passionate fan base that will support the program through ticket sales, donations, and overall enthusiasm. A strong connection between the university and the local community would be a valuable asset in making the transition to the FBS.

Other Potential Conference Options

While Conference USA might be the most talked-about option, it's worth considering other potential conferences that Missouri State could explore. The Mid-American Conference (MAC), for example, could be a good fit geographically and competitively. The MAC has a history of providing opportunities for mid-major programs to shine, and its geographic proximity to Missouri State could help reduce travel costs and enhance regional rivalries. Another option could be the Sun Belt Conference, which has been gaining prominence in recent years. The Sun Belt has been aggressive in adding quality programs and has seen its media exposure increase significantly. While the geographic fit might not be as ideal as the MAC, the Sun Belt's growing national profile could be attractive to Missouri State. Additionally, there's always the possibility of remaining in the FCS and exploring opportunities within the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The MVFC is a strong conference with a rich tradition, and Missouri State could focus on building a dominant program within that league. Ultimately, the best conference option for Missouri State will depend on a variety of factors, including financial considerations, competitive opportunities, and the university's long-term strategic goals. Each conference offers its unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and Missouri State will need to carefully weigh its options before making a decision.

The Future of Missouri State Football

The future of Missouri State football is undoubtedly exciting. Whether they remain in the MVFC or make the leap to Conference USA (or another FBS conference), the program is poised for growth. With strong leadership, a dedicated coaching staff, and talented student-athletes, the Bears have the potential to achieve great things. The decision to move to the FBS level is a complex one with significant implications, but it's a decision that could transform the program and the university for years to come. As the college football landscape continues to evolve, Missouri State will need to be strategic and proactive in positioning itself for long-term success. Whether that means staying put and building a powerhouse in the FCS or taking a chance and competing on a bigger stage in the FBS, the future is bright for Missouri State football. So, keep your eyes on the Bears – the journey is sure to be an interesting one!

Guys, what do you think? Is Conference USA the right move for Missouri State, or should they stay in the MVFC? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!