Pac-12 Football: Top 5 expansion candidates for the conference

In recent years, Boise State’s glow has dimmed a bit from the BCS era. But the Broncos remain the preeminent Group of Five brand, with three Fiesta Bowl victories over the past 12 years. If the Pac-12 really has interest in remaining geographically consistent, landing an Idaho school would seal its presence in Cascadia.

Boise State has certainly had the number of the Pac-12 in recent years. Over the past decade, the Broncos went 10-3 against Pac-12 schools. That does not include either Colorado or Utah prior to their move into the league. Boise State is 3-0 all-time against the Utes, while they have never played the Buffaloes on the gridiron.

Bryan Harsin‘s team would make a logical competitive case for joining the Pac-12. In terms of television markets, the Idaho state capital sits directly between Lincoln, Nebraska and Tallahassee, Florida in Nielsen market size. It is a bigger metropolitan area than Eugene, Corvallis, or Pullman, all of whom would be likely rivals in the North Division.

The Pac-12 was willing to go the mid-major route once when it brought in Utah. Boise State has been a thorn in the league’s side for more than a decade now. Getting the Broncos onto their side would be a wise move long-term for the Pac-12 should another realignment take place.