The Idaho Legislature has stepped into the spotlight, urging Congress to bring clarity and consistency to college athletics, particularly focusing on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and revenue sharing. This move, led by Sen.
Ben Adams and Rep. Brent Crane, highlights Boise State's significant role in the state's economy and its exclusion from key discussions dominated by the "Power Two" and "Power Four" conferences.
When we talk about the "Power Four," we're referring to the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC. The "Power Two," namely the SEC and Big Ten, have been consolidating their influence, especially with their football prowess. Meanwhile, Boise State is gearing up to join the revived Pac-12 this July, as the conference attempts a comeback after its disbandment in 2024.
The joint memorial calls for a unified national framework for NIL and revenue sharing, aiming to replace the current confusing patchwork of state laws. This would offer universities a clear path forward, free from the tangled web of mandates and legal battles.
Boise State's impact is undeniable. Nationally, their football team boasts a top-five win percentage since 1996, a 28-year streak of winning seasons, and a remarkable 63 conference championships in women’s sports. Locally, Boise State generates an impressive $350 million annual economic impact, with 485,000 attendees flocking to home events in 2025, boosting tourism and local businesses.
The memorial doesn't mention other Idaho institutions like the University of Idaho or Idaho State, which compete at the FCS level. Boise State Athletic Director Jeramiah Dickey emphasized the broader significance of Boise State, advocating for consistency and stability in college sports.
Boise State has faced challenges, losing key players to Power Four programs, such as punter James Ferguson-Reynolds to Oregon and wide receiver Prince Strachan to USC. While NIL benefits might not be the sole reason for these departures, they underscore the competitive disadvantage faced by schools outside the Power Four.
Under the NCAA’s revenue-sharing model, Group of Six schools, including Boise State, averaged payments of $3.2 million in the 2025-26 academic year, while Power Four programs hit the $20.5 million cap. These figures don't even account for third-party NIL deals, which can heavily favor schools with affluent alumni or benefactors.
Jeramiah Dickey summed it up well, calling for a system that fosters opportunity and excellence, with federal rules to guide the way. This push is about more than just sports; it’s about securing a future where institutions like Boise State can thrive and continue to enrich their communities.