Why Texas State became a viable option for the Pac-12

Texas State was always considered a sleeping giant in the G5 ranks inside the Lone Star State. The university, which is perfectly situated between the growing metropolises of Austin and San Antonio in San Marcos, arguably the coolest college town in Texas, reported an enrollment of 40,487 in the fall of 2024. That trails only Texas A&M, Texas, Houston, and North Texas. 

But the Bobcats always lacked the two things necessary to turn hope into reality in athletics, and specifically in football: leadership and money. Texas State made a bold move to enter the FBS ranks ahead of the 2012 season, but the administration at that time lacked the foresight and will power to push for more. Texas State did enough to move up, but not enough to capitalize on that move. The result? Twelve seasons of subpar results from 2012-2022, which included only one winning season and no bowl trips.