(05-03-2017 11:35 PM)arkstfan Wrote:  Unless TV demands the AAC be part of one of the contract bowls it is a marketing plan and one that sets a stage for bad feelings among fans of the member schools if it becomes an empty slogan.

Of course its a marketing plan. The AAC is still a very new conference. Its about differentiation, branding, and creating an image. That said, if you read the plan it doesn't require a contract bowl---doesn't even mention a contract bowl. Virtually every one of its "pillars" discuss goals and bench marks that can only be accomplished via the efforts of its member schools. To the extent it makes demands, its making them of its own member schools and their fans--not the sports world.

Im curious if we see any real follow through in areas where its completely within our control--but might cause a little friction. One basketball bullet point is a good example. The basketball statement---"play strong schedules which will improve Conference RPI and lead to more tournament berths" is one in particular I have my eye on. Im watching that one to see if its all lip service or if its a real live initiative backed by a membership committed to action. If the AD's come out of the AAC Spring Meetings in late May with new scheduling guidelines for basketball---then this initiative might really be something that yields tangible improvement in the leagues development, performance, and perception. Its not the kind of thing that's going to make the AAC a power conference, but it could easily do some good when it comes time to negotiate the next tv deal.