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

The Aztecs round out the list of potential targets for the Pac-12, thanks to their position right at the southern terminus of the Pac-12 footprint and their track record of success. Before falling to second in their division in 2017, San Diego State had won two straight Mountain West titles. Like Boise State, they are a mid-major that punches above their weight.

Rocky Long‘s crew is beginning to put together a strong resume that merits consideration. They have produced several Heisman contenders in recent years. The Aztecs have also hit the Pac-12 where it hurts most, on the scoreboard. San Diego State has won three straight against Pac-12 opponents over the past two years.

Historically, San Diego State has been a relative afterthought for Pac-12 teams. They are 11-43-1 all time against the Power Five league’s teams. But in recent years, their credentials have improved greatly. And as the sole tenant of a former NFL stadium, especially one situated in sunny southern California, SDSU has a distinct recruiting advantage.

Next: Top 5 Big Ten expansion candidates

As the home of multiple top-shelf running backs dating back to Marshall Faulk, they have a reputation for getting the most out of runners. The Pac-12 would probably look at poaching the Group of Five ranks as beneath its station, but as Stanford, California, and Arizona State found out the Aztecs are no pushover.