Loyal Tech's transition from Conference USA (CUSA) to the Sun Belt Conference has sparked a contentious clash between the two leagues. Both conference schedules for 2026 include Louisiana Tech, resulting in an impossible 20-game slate鈥攅ight more than the NCAA permits without a waiver. Louisiana Tech has taken legal action against CUSA to expedite its departure before the 2026 college football season. CUSA asserts it is unaware of any resolution between the university and Sun Belt. Negotiations remain fraught, complicating the transition.

By the Numbers
  • Louisiana Tech is slated for 20 football games in 2026, against the NCAA limit of 12 without a waiver.
  • CUSA will drop from 11 teams to 10 if Louisiana Tech exits, while the Sun Belt will increase from 13 teams to 14.
Yes, But

The situation may intensify if CUSA and Louisiana Tech cannot reconcile their differences. CUSA insists that Louisiana Tech's proposals for a swift exit do not meet financial commitments according to the grant of rights agreement. Louisiana Tech, however, feels they are negotiating in good faith.

State of Play
  • Both CUSA and the Sun Belt have released schedules for 2026 including Louisiana Tech.
  • Louisiana Tech's website aligns with the Sun Belt's schedule, omitting any mention of CUSA.
What's Next

As negotiations unfold, Louisiana Tech could either reach a financial settlement permitting early conference departure or face a protracted legal dispute that complicates scheduling for the upcoming seasons.

Bottom Line

The conflict between Louisiana Tech, CUSA, and the Sun Belt over scheduling reveals underlying tensions in college athletics, highlighting the complexities of conference realignment and the need for clear communication and effective negotiations moving forward.