The American Athletic Conference continues as a competitive Group of Five league following the departure of Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF to the Big 12. The AAC has rebuilt with programs like Memphis, Tulane, UTSA, and East Carolina providing strong football competition. The conference's media deal and geographic footprint across the South and Southeast create opportunities for programs to build toward New Year's Six bowl berths as the highest-ranked Group of Five champion.

Key storylines

The AAC's path to national relevance runs through the Group of Five's guaranteed access to a New Year's Six bowl game. Programs that run the table in conference play and build strong non-conference resumes can earn significant postseason rewards. Memphis, Tulane, and Army have emerged as consistent contenders for the conference championship in recent seasons.

Schedule note

Game dates and times can change as networks and the conference finalize broadcast windows. Use team pages as a countdown reference and verify official details before making plans.