What Football Conference Is Boise State In? (2025 Update)

By Sarah Miller · August 1, 2043

Boise State University competes in the Mountain West Conference (MWC) for football, a member of NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Boise State Football: Conference Affiliation Overview

Boise State University's football team, known as the Broncos, is a prominent member of the Mountain West Conference (MWC). The Broncos have been part of the MWC since 2011, after previously competing in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). As an FBS program, Boise State consistently ranks among the top Group of Five schools and regularly contends for New Year’s Six bowl berths.

Key Facts About Boise State's Conference Membership

Current conference: Mountain West Conference (MWC)
Division: Mountain Division (since 2013)
NCAA division: Division I FBS
Joined MWC: 2011
Primary rivals: Fresno State, Utah State, Nevada
Conference championships won: 10 total (7 in WAC, 3 in MWC)

History of Boise State's Conference Realignment

Boise State's journey through collegiate conferences reflects its rise as a national football power. Starting as a Division I-AA (now FCS) program, the Broncos moved to FBS in 1996 and gradually climbed the competitive ladder through strategic conference transitions.

Timeline of Conference Changes

1996–2000: Big West Conference
2001–2010: Western Athletic Conference (WAC)
2011–present: Mountain West Conference (MWC)

The shift to the Mountain West in 2011 marked a significant step in Boise State’s athletic development, providing greater media exposure, improved scheduling opportunities, and access to major bowl games through the College Football Playoff ecosystem.

Mountain West Conference Structure and Competition

The Mountain West is divided into two divisions: the Mountain Division and the West Division. Boise State competes in the Mountain Division alongside Colorado State, Air Force, Wyoming, Utah State, and New Mexico. The divisional structure determines qualification for the Mountain West Championship Game.

Current MWC Football Members (2025 Season)

School	Location	Joined MWC	Division	Stadium Capacity
Boise State	Boise, ID	2011	Mountain	32,088
Colorado State	Fort Collins, CO	1999	Mountain	41,000
Utah State	Logan, UT	2013	Mountain	25,100
Air Force	Colorado Springs, CO	1999	Mountain	46,000
Wyoming	Laramie, WY	1999	Mountain	29,181
New Mexico	Albuquerque, NM	1999	Mountain	38,634
San Diego State	San Diego, CA	1999	West	35,000
Fresno State	Fresno, CA	2012	West	41,031
Hawai'i	Honolulu, HI	2012	West	36,600
Nevada	Reno, NV	2012	West	30,000

Table data source:Mountain West Official Site, NCAA Statistics

The table highlights key structural details of current MWC members. Boise State has one of the smaller stadiums but maintains strong attendance and fan engagement. The conference features geographic clustering, with Mountain Division teams located inland and West Division teams closer to the Pacific coast. This alignment helps reduce travel costs and strengthens regional rivalries.

Boise State's Performance in the Mountain West

Since joining the MWC, Boise State has been a dominant force, winning multiple division titles and conference championships. The Broncos claimed Mountain West titles in 2014, 2017, and 2023, and frequently finish ranked in the final AP or CFP polls.

2023 Season: Finished 10–3 overall, won Mountain Division, lost MW Championship to Fresno State
CFP Rankings Appearances: Regularly featured in Top 25 discussions
Bowl Record (MWC era): 8 wins, 5 losses (as of 2024 season)

Frequently Asked Questions About Boise State Football Conference

What conference is Boise State football in?

Boise State football competes in the Mountain West Conference (MWC), which is part of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

When did Boise State join the Mountain West?

Boise State officially joined the Mountain West Conference on July 1, 2011, after previously competing in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).

Is Boise State moving to another conference?

As of October 2025, there are no official plans for Boise State to leave the Mountain West. Despite periodic realignment rumors involving the Big 12 and other Power Four conferences, Boise State remains committed to the MWC.

Does Boise State play in a conference championship game?

Yes, Boise State competes in the Mountain West Championship Game if it wins the Mountain Division. The winner earns the conference's automatic bid to a New Year’s Six bowl when applicable.

Who are Boise State's biggest rivals in the Mountain West?

Boise State's primary rivals include Fresno State (Battle for the Milk Can), Utah State, and Nevada. The annual game against Fresno State is particularly intense and often decides division outcomes.