(10-20-2021 02:02 PM)Buc76 Wrote:  As we discussed earlier in this thread, several of out peer Institutions have moved up to FBS and more are going to make the move very soon. These peer Institutions thought it was a good move and found a path to make the move.
Why do you think ETSU cannot do the same?

Pluses for ETSU

Higher enrollment
Improved and additional facilities
Higher fan and student attendance
Larger number of home games
More Business community support
Regular National TV exposer
City and area growth

All of the above result in better funding for the University in Academics and Athletics which in turn provides a better environment for students and supporters.[/align]

As you know, the bottom line is MONEY — always has been and always will be. For example, Coastal Carolina, a four year college since 1974, essentially bought their way into FBS and the Sun Belt Conference with a rich donor (someone on here said - $95 million) and, of course, they are currently reaping a reward in football. Without that donor, however, they would still be in the Big South. Perhaps this will increase their enrollment and academic offerings. Guess is, that $95 million could have resulted in the start up of an Engineering School, or a Pharmacy School, or a Medical School, etc. ETSU has the undergraduate and graduate academics that surpasses those of a number of our regional university FBS athletic peers. Our long history as a an undergraduate, graduate, and professional school university would indicate we’re a natural for athletic Division I FBS status.

Bottom line — MONEY. It costs money to play DI/FBS sports, certainly outside the Power Five leagues, and that cost will likely increase going forward as the Power Five continue to consolidate the money.