Air Force has emerged as a serious target to be added to the American Athletic Conference, sources told ESPN on Monday.
Air Force had been mentioned in talks as a possible addition to the AAC in recent months before the Pac-12 acquired four Mountain West Conference schools last week.
The AAC released a statement Monday night saying the league “is a pioneering brand, firmly grounded in determination and hard work, with powerful and prestigious member institutions. Over the past five months, we have prioritized taking advantage of every opportunity that will enhance value for our member institutions and our student-athletes.”
“Whether through private equity, naming rights, innovative partnerships or realignment, we have proactively evaluated each opportunity and are prepared to collaboratively take action to be at the forefront of success and sustainability,” the statement said.
The AAC features 14 football schools this season, including Army and Navy. The league does not have any programs in this week's AP Top 25, but Memphis, which won 3-0 on Saturday and defeated Florida State, received the most votes (77) of all unranked teams.