University of Louisiana regents consider moving football programs to FCS

Members of the University of Louisiana Board of Regents are considering whether several schools should move their football programs from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) to the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) due to significant budget deficits.

Regent Wilbert Pryor suggested that the University of Louisiana, Louisiana Tech, and the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) consider the move to alleviate financial strain. Pryor cited a $20 million deficit at UL, a $17 million deficit at Louisiana Tech, and a $10 million deficit at ULM. He also noted the disparity in coaching salaries, comparing the $1 million pay at Tech to approximately $250,000 at FCS program Nicholls State.

University of Louisiana System President Rick Gallot indicated that the board is facing unavoidable decisions regarding these financial challenges.