Did you know that the American Athletic Conference has produced top-tier NFL talent, major bowl contenders, and some of the most entertaining games in college football? Often called the AAC, this conference has steadily earned its place in the national conversation. With a constantly evolving lineup of competitive programs and an exciting AAC football schedule, the 2025 season promises even more intensity, rivalries, and breakout stars.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from teams and standings to championship predictions and key games to watch.
🧭 What Is the American Athletic Conference?
The American Athletic Conference, commonly referred to as the AAC, is a collegiate athletic conference affiliated with NCAA Division I. While it started as a successor to the Big East in 2013, the AAC has forged its own identity—particularly in football.
Member Schools (2025):
- East Carolina
- Florida Atlantic
- Memphis
- Navy
- North Texas
- Rice
- SMU (Southern Methodist)
- Temple
- Tulane
- Tulsa
- UAB (Alabama–Birmingham)
- USF (South Florida)
- UTSA (Texas–San Antonio)
- Charlotte
The conference prides itself on athletic competitiveness and academic strength, earning the nickname: “The Power 6 contender.”
📊 AAC Football Schedule & 2025 Standings Outlook
The AAC football schedule plays a crucial role in determining bowl eligibility and shaping playoff narratives for Group of Five programs.
Key 2025 Highlights:
- Week 1: Tulane vs. Memphis – A heavyweight matchup to open the season.
- Midseason: UTSA vs. SMU – Likely a championship preview.
- Final Week: FAU vs. UAB – Could determine final bowl spots.
2025 Preseason Power Rankings:
- SMU Mustangs – Elite QB play and veteran coaching.
- UTSA Roadrunners – Rising fast with top offensive stats.
- Tulane Green Wave – Balanced roster and standout defense.
- Memphis Tigers – Strong recruiting class boosts potential.
- FAU Owls – Defensive upgrades may surprise the league.
🏆 AAC Championship Game: Who Will Claim the Crown?
The AAC championship game is played between the top two teams in the standings, regardless of divisions. It’s one of the most exciting non-Power Five finales, often drawing national attention and affecting college football rankings.
How It Works:
- Top 2 teams (by record) compete—no longer division-based.
- Hosted by the higher-seeded team.
- Winner often receives a New Year’s Six bowl invite.
In 2025, early predictions suggest a SMU vs. UTSA clash, with Tulane as a potential spoiler.
🔥 Top Players to Watch in the American Athletic Conference
Talent in the AAC runs deep. The 2025 season features several stars with NFL potential.
- Preston Lawrence (QB, SMU) – Dual-threat leader, Heisman sleeper.
- Keenan Morris (WR, Tulane) – Speedy playmaker, big-yard threat.
- Javier Banks (LB, UTSA) – Defensive anchor with All-American potential.
- Trevor Gunn (RB, Memphis) – Breakout candidate for 1,000+ rushing yards.
These athletes are expected to headline not just the AAC, but also national highlight reels.
📅 Must-Watch Games That Will Shape the Season
Circle these matchups if you want to follow the American Athletic Conference closely this season:
- Tulane vs. SMU – Early season statement opportunity.
- UTSA vs. FAU – Midseason test of depth and execution.
- Memphis vs. UAB – Could determine New Year’s bowl entry.
- AAC Championship Game (Dec 6, 2025) – Likely a playoff-impacting event.
These games will help decide conference supremacy and shift postseason narratives.
🧠 Why the American Athletic Conference Matters
Despite not being a Power Five conference, the American Athletic Conference has massive implications on the college football landscape.
- Bowl Game Representation – Frequent appearances in New Year’s Six bowls.
- NFL Draft Talent – Dozens of AAC players enter the league yearly.
- Media Exposure – Games broadcast on ESPN and ABC regularly.
- Path to Playoff – Under new playoff expansion, AAC teams have a real shot at inclusion.
The AAC is proof that competitive football doesn’t live solely in the Big Ten or SEC.
🖼️ Related Image: AAC Football Game Day
Image Source: Unsplash – Free for commercial use
❓ FAQs About the American Athletic Conference
1. What teams play in the American Athletic Conference?
The AAC currently has 14 football members, including SMU, Tulane, UTSA, Memphis, and Navy.
2. Is the AAC part of the Power Five?
No, but it is widely considered the top Group of Five conference, often competing with Power Five programs.
3. When is the AAC championship game played?
The 2025 game is scheduled for December 6 and features the top two teams by conference record.
4. Who are the top contenders in 2025?
SMU, UTSA, and Tulane are early favorites based on returning talent and schedule strength.
5. How can I watch AAC games?
Most games air on ESPN networks, with select matchups on ABC and available via streaming services like ESPN+.
🎯 Final Thoughts: The AAC’s Growing Legacy
The American Athletic Conference continues to defy expectations and elevate its national profile. Whether you’re tuning in for elite quarterback play, competitive matchups, or playoff implications, the AAC delivers week in and week out. As the 2025 season unfolds, don’t be surprised if the conference produces another New Year’s bowl contender—or even a playoff breakthrough.
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