This study investigates the environmental impacts of college football's 2024 conference realignment, focusing on the increased aviation pollution due to expanded travel requirements for teams. Recent realignments in college football conferences have led to significant changes in team travel schedules, resulting in longer travel distances and a greater reliance on air travel. The research employs a comparative analysis of travel distances and carbon footprint calculations using data from 2024 NCAA team schedules and aviation emission factors. Additionally, the study compares a theoretical model of logical geographically based conferences against the actual 2024 conference alignments, examining just how much grouping schools based on their geography could reduce travel and therefore overall emissions. The analysis reveals a significant increase in travel-related carbon emissions, with certain schools experiencing substantial increases in aviation pollution using the 2024 schedule compared to if they were to use the geographical based model. The study also examines the impact of increased travel on student-athlete mental health, identifying heightened stress and reduced academic performance as significant concerns due to increased cross country travel which was not in place before. Case studies illustrate the varying impacts on different universities and student-athletes. To address these issues, the study suggests a geographical model be put in place in the next ten to fifteen years to avoid the unnecessary increase in aviation pollution, protect student athlete’s mental and academic well being, and keep historic geographically based rivalries strong. The study also highlights sustainability initiatives for stadiums and travel, including the adoption of greener transportation methods and eco-friendly stadium practices. Policy recommendations include regulatory measures to mitigate aviation pollution and support for sustainability initiatives within college athletics. These findings underscore the need for change in comprehensive strategies to 3 manage the environmental and mental health impacts of conference realignment, promoting sustainability and well-being in FBS college football.