Introduction
The American Conference (American) has established itself as the premier league among the Group of Five, producing teams that routinely challenge for New Year’s Six bowl berths and national attention. Programs across the AAC compete weekly for bowl eligibility, rankings, and playoff conversation relevance on the CFP Bubble Watch. From Charlotte to Tulsa, the conference showcases fast-paced offenses and rising programs hungry to prove they belong in the national spotlight.
Quick Facts
Founded: 2013
Teams: 14
Headquarters: Irving, Texas
Championship Game: American Conference Championship (Campus Site)
CFP Appearances: 1 (Cincinnati, 2021)
Bowl Record (Last 5 Years): 20–18
Bubble Summary
The American remains the standard-bearer for the Group of Five in the College Athletics Playoff era. Its teams frequently hover around the national rankings, with the league’s champion often positioned as the leading non–Power Four contender for a major bowl berth. The CFP Bubble Watch tracks which programs can separate from the pack and earn national recognition in the season’s closing weeks.
Historical Identity
Formed from the remnants of the old Big East, the American has built a legacy of offensive innovation and underdog ambition. From UCF’s undefeated 2017 run to Cincinnati’s 2021 Playoff breakthrough, the league has redefined what’s possible for non–Power Four programs. As realignment reshapes the college athletics landscape, the American continues to serve as the proving ground for future national contenders.
Team Links
Alabama – Birmingham (UAB) | Charlotte | East Carolina | Florida Atlantic (FAU) | Memphis | Navy | North Texas | Rice | South Florida (USF) | Texas – San Antonio (UTSA) | Temple | Tulane | Tulsa
