Francisco Mauigoa says Pac-12 realignment news is sad to hear

As the Pac-12 continues to dissolve, two teams are seemingly going to be left behind in conference realignment. Just four teams remain but Oregon State and Washington State are not drawing too much interest from the likes of the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, or SEC. An incredibly sad development for two Pacific Northwest programs with a ton of history and tradition.

Miami linebacker Francisco Mauigoa knows plenty about Washington State, playing for the Cougars. He decided to finish out his college career in Coral Gables after entering the NCAA transfer portal. But Pullman still has a special place in his heart, sending best wishes to the program throughout this tough process.

“It was good competition,” Mauigoa said. “Great teams. And now seeing what is going on right now is said to hear for my past school because Washington State is in a bad position. But it is what it is. I’ll let them do what they do but hope for better outcomes.”

Mauigoa spent two seasons with Washington State, playing in 23 games. His role grew during his sophomore campaign, becoming a regular contributor with 12 starters. Washington State is going to miss his production after Mauigoa finished fourth on the team in tackles (60) with 5.5 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks.

There was even a 95-yard pick-six in the Cougars’ game against a future Big Ten member, Oregon.

While you never know in today’s world, Miami is likely to call the ACC home for the foreseeable future. Mauigoa will have a former Power Five conference to associate itself with throughout the rest of his time in college football.

The ACC for sure has disgruntled members but they are currently looking to expand. Cal and Stanford from the Pac-12 are being discussed, as is SMU. Whether or not that convinces somebody like Florida State to stay in the conference, we will have to see.

His former teammates back at Washington State may not be able to say the same. The Pac-12 is surely about to dissolve, with limited options presenting itself to the school’s leaders. There have not been discussions of the Cougars joining their former Pac-12 teammates in either the Big Ten or Big 12. And SEC commissioner Greg Sankey has harped on still being a regional conference.

Maybe the Mountain West is an option? The conference is certainly interested in the possibility, maybe giving the folks in Pullman hope.