You have to think that these opportunities would be more abundant if NIU was in a stronger conference. No question the level of play/scheduling is better in stronger conferences. I know we schedule big "out of conference" teams from time to time, but they are far fewer over all. Consistency of bigger name brand teams coming to NIU to play will get butts in seats, fill the coffers, and help brand NIU even further.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nca.../86769732/