Northern Illinois becomes football-only member of Mountain West

(Photo credit: Michael Clubb / USA TODAY NETWORK)
Northern Illinois confirmed Tuesday that it is joining the Mountain West in 2026 as a football-only member.

The school hasn't made any decisions on where its other sports will play but remains in discussions with the Mid-American Conference.

The football program is exiting the MAC after having played in it since 1997. It was its second stint in the MAC.

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