(04-01-2017 03:04 PM)MissouriStateBears Wrote: MVC adds Illinois-Chicago.
(04-01-2017 04:08 PM)Stugray2 Wrote: If they invite anyone, it'll probably be UIC or Valpo.
Weren't you guys saying UMKC, in the other thread on this topic?? (you know, because it's CS&CR, if there aren't three threads on the same thing, it's not important)
(04-01-2017 05:11 PM)bullet Wrote: I think their first shot is getting St. Louis to return. A10 has become a poor geographic fit for them.
Not wrong on the geography, and I certainly think MVC will give it a try ... but I think STL is holding out hope for a Big East invite, and views its A10 membership as a prerequisite for said invite.
(04-01-2017 08:53 PM)SubGod22 Wrote: SLU has an open invitation to the MVC and has for years. There is zero interest.
I agree, for the reason I gave bullet above.
(04-01-2017 08:53 PM)SubGod22 Wrote: The Dakota's wouldn't have the votes and it's not just because of the privates.
100% correct.
It's distance, more than anything. The Great Lakes schools really just don't enjoy traveling out to the bleak, cold, plains.
Plus, I think the Dakotas' dominance in the MVFC makes teams like UNI, SIU, IL St, MO St, less likely to vote them, as well.
(04-01-2017 08:53 PM)SubGod22 Wrote: UNI is a solid program that typically does more with less than most. Illinois State should be a solid program and have the tools to do so. Bradley should be at the top of the conference and they're working to get back. If some other programs will step up a little and make an effort the MVC can definitely remain above the Summit and Horizon.
Agree with this, even if losing MO St as well. With a core of UNI, IL St, and if SIU and Bradley can get back to winning ... those are programs that are a step above most Horizon and Summit programs, in terms of attendance and spending. Less sure about Drake, Evansville, and Indiana St.
(04-01-2017 08:53 PM)SubGod22 Wrote: U wouldn't be the least bit surprised if UNI, ISU and MSU haven't made some informal contacts with the MAC or Belt to see if there is any way they can move. Both the MAC and Belt have been improving and could be stronger than the MVC without Wichita and one or any of those three. All three I believe would be open to moving up to FBS with the direction things are going in the MVC. That doesn't mean a spot will open for any, but they will be looking.
UNI has a MAC connection with wrestling, which I believe they established for that very purpose. IL St would fit the league's geography better. MO St would've been a great add for the Sun Belt, but now that gate appears closed for a while, unless they are willing to expand past 12.
(04-02-2017 01:55 AM)Chuck_A Wrote: HL Commish Jon LeCrone is on record during the HL Conference Tourney saying the Horizon have been in talks with prospective invitees. This next realignment move with Wichita State is really going to impact, and I mean IMPACT the 3 of the MVC, Horizon League and The Summit League...for better or in one of those league's case...for worse!
The nice thing, IMO, is that neither the Horizon or the MVC is likely to invite any of the Western schools in the Summit (Dakota 4, Omaha, Denver) Too far away, can't get the votes.
So that leaves the Summit in just fine, regardless what happens to W ILL and the IU-PU schools. Horizon is welcome to any or all of them.