On July 1, 2023, the Big 12 officially initiated four members. The league brought in the BYU Cougars from independent status and also opened its arms to three of the most successful AAC programs over the past decade — the Cincinnati Bearcats, Houston Cougars, and UCF Knights.
In most years, bowl eligibility is a staple for those programs. BYU participated in a bowl game in 17 of the last 18 years. Cincinnati participated in a bowl game in 14 of the last 17 years. Houston participated in a bowl game in 15 of the last 18 years. UCF participated in a bowl game in 12 of the last 14 years.