College
What are the options for the ASC to retain an automatic bid to the playoffs?
The ASC has faced plenty of membership changes since its inception in 1996. However, a recent rash of defections has left the conference facing an uncertain future. Coaches and industry sources sound off on the future of the ASC.
American Southwest Conference commissioner Amy Carlton has seen a lot of movement among the members of the conference since she began her term as interim commissioner in June 2006. But her most difficult challenge lies ahead, with the ASC projected to have four members remaining that sponsor football when the 2026 season begins.
The most recent movement began when Belhaven withdrew its membership last year. Southwestern is leaving the ASC for the Southern Athletic Association for the upcoming season. At the same time, McMurry, Austin College, and Texas Lutheran are expected to depart for the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference in 2024. Add in Sul Ross State transitioning to NCAA Division II and the Lone Star Conference, and the conference is facing an uncertain future.
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