I think the BSC holds firm unless one specific school (NMSU) shows interest. The Montana schools both want the conference to shrink.

(01-26-2017 05:44 PM)Fighting Muskie Wrote:  

(01-26-2017 05:17 PM)chargeradio Wrote:  So, who backfills in the Big Sky? Could Azusa Pacific be in play if they maintain scholarship football upon moving to Division I?

My thoughts on Big Sky backfill:

NMSU has right of first refusal if they want to come and are willing to agree to a deal where they can be in the league for 4-5 years w/o football but after that they either need to play in the league or leave, similar to the situation that happened with Idaho.

Another option is dropping back to 10. Sacramento St would prefer the Big West for Olympic sports; it's better travel and a better cultural fit. The Big Sky could give them approval to seek a better Olympic home. UCSD also joins the Big West and the Cal St-UC balance is maintained.

A third option is a race ensues between GCU, Utah Valley, and any D2 hopefuls to get an FCS ready football program together that the Big Sky would find attractive. Azusa could jockey for this spot but I don't know how receptive the Big Sky would be to a private school. Maybe Azusa joins the WAC and play Big Sky football as an affiliate.

Or, nothing happens. with 11 full members they play a 20 game double round robin basketball schedule.