(04-17-2017 08:11 PM)Chuck_A Wrote:  

(04-17-2017 07:15 PM)NoDak Wrote:  Didn't hear it, but on the bizon radio station, supposedly the Valpo beat reporter was on it. He stated that the MVC wants Valpo, Belmont and NDSU as a trio. Apparently, the five MVFC members are adamant that a sixth fb member be added to the MVC.

So why isn't Murray St at the top? This is just my opinion, but Murray St seemingly doesn't have FBS capability, while NDSU does. Longer term, the MVC fb schools need to be thinking about FBS, especially now that the NCAA has smashed the FBS conference only invite rule by giving Liberty a waiver.

Man, I'll believe that when I see it. That guy is all over the place lately talking about Valpo and the MVC as if it's a done deal! I know the talk is that Valpo has done it on the court over the past few years, but that was under the Drews. The Crusaders have had one year under Matt Lottich and I want to see what he can do with his own recruits. This will be his first recruiting class. We'll see how he does when all of Bryce Drew's recruits are gone. There is also the concern about money and facilities. Joining the Valley will cause Valpo to up their athletic budget to keep up with MVC teams. Athletics have said in so many words that building a new arena or even updating the ARC is out of the question. They are focusing on academic buildings and academic courses. They will have some of the worst facilities in the Missouri Valley Conference, which won't bode too well for Valpo when recruits go to visit other Valley schools. So, I personally don't think Valpo is all that much of a shoo-in!

A much safer choice is UIC. But the MVC seemingly has to do something bold to have a shot at maintaining their advantages, and three teams might be it. Adding three teams might be the only thing the internal politics allow, other than zero teams.