Once upon a time, in the early 20th century, the landscape of American college football was evolving. As universities across the country embraced the sport, the idea of regional conferences began to take shape. Out on the West Coast, a group of universities saw the potential for collaboration and competition, leading to the formation of what would become one of the most iconic conferences in college football—the Pacific Coast Conference.
In 1915, the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) was officially established, bringing together four universities: the University of California, the University of Washington, the University of Oregon, and Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State University). These schools sought to create a competitive platform for their football teams while fostering a sense of camaraderie among the institutions.
Over the next few decades, the conference expanded to include more universities. The University of Southern California (USC) and Stanford University joined in 1922, followed by the University of Idaho in 1922 (later leaving in 1959). The PCC became a powerhouse on the West Coast, with heated rivalries and iconic matchups defining its football legacy.
The 1930s and 1940s were a golden era for the PCC, with schools like USC, Stanford, and California consistently fielding strong football teams. Legendary coaches like Howard Jones of USC and “Pop” Warner of Stanford left an indelible mark on the conference, shaping its identity and contributing to the rich tapestry of college football history.
However, the PCC faced challenges, particularly during World War II when many college football programs were disrupted. Despite these setbacks, the conference rebounded in the post-war years, with renewed enthusiasm for the sport.
As the 1950s dawned, the PCC underwent a period of transformation. In 1959, the University of Washington, the University of Oregon, and Oregon State University withdrew from the conference due to a series of controversies and disagreements. The PCC was rebranded as the Athletic Association of Western Universities (AAWU), setting the stage for a new chapter in its history.
The AAWU continued to thrive, with the remaining members and new additions like the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the conference continued to produce football legends, including Heisman Trophy winners and future NFL stars.
In 1978, the conference once again underwent a name change, becoming the Pacific-10 Conference (Pac-10) with the addition of the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. The Pac-10 era saw continued success on the football field, with teams like USC, UCLA, and Washington enjoying periods of dominance.
The turn of the 21st century brought further expansion and a new identity for the conference. In 2011, the Pac-10 officially became the Pac-12 with the addition of the University of Colorado and the University of Utah. This expansion broadened the geographical footprint of the conference and intensified competition.
The Pac-12, with its rich history, storied rivalries, and tradition of excellence, remains a prominent force in college football. From the early days of the Pacific Coast Conference to the modern era of the Pac-12, the conference has woven a narrative that reflects the evolution of American collegiate athletics. As the years go by, the saga of the Pac-12 continues to unfold on football fields across the West, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of college football history.