There was a lot of talk in the fall and early winter about the addition of Massachusetts to the Mid-American Conference.

The talk died down recently but the buzz around the MAC, through conversations I have had with others around the conference, is that a meeting is planned in the upcoming week where presidents from the 13 schools in the conference will be meeting to formally discuss the idea of adding UMass to the MAC for football.

From what I have gathered, there has been no decision made one way or another and this meeting will be to discuss the pros and cons of the idea.

All detail about a potential addition, like division realignment, timetables for their addition, and other things can't really even be discussed until the MAC approves UMass as the school becomes certified for FBS play.

Currently, UMass is a FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) program and they must go through a season of certification before becoming an official FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) program. Once an official FBS program, they can then join a conference.

UMass still could become certified for the 2012 season and possibly be added then, but the timetable for them to enter into a certification process is closing, which could delay any possible addition until at least 2013.

As I hear more on the situation, I will be sure to let you know.