(12-12-2019 06:29 PM)quo vadis Wrote:  

(12-12-2019 12:27 PM)TTT Wrote:  I stand by my argument. If ND finishes in the T8 for 2-3 consecutive years under this proposed 5-1-2 format AND gets left out of the CFP each of those years, then I'd wager they'll sing a different tune. If they are STILL stubborn about it then it'll be to the detriment of their program/prospective recruits/coaches etc.

I agree with you.

The reason we don't see any pressure on ND to join a conference now is that, contrary to what some believe, the six years of the CFP show that ND's path to the playoffs is not any harder than a P5 team's path is. It's been exactly the same.

However, if under 5-1-2, ND is faced with situations where they are a top-8 team and keep getting shut out of the playoffs because lower-ranked P5 champs or G5 team is getting in, then they might change their tune, because ND has said that the one thing that could get them to surrender independence is if it is clear it is a serious handicap to getting into the playoffs.

This is one reason why I think ND would back a "straight 8" system but not 5-1-2.

Jack Swarbrick is quoted a couple of times as saying a champs only playoff system would end ND's independence, because that would completely close off any path for ND.

So, I am not sure a "serious handicap" would qualify as a true threat to ND's independence.

As long as there is a path to the playoffs open to ND, I think that they stay indy.