Marinatto stated the goal of candidate evaluation would be:
http://www.bigeast.org/News/tabid/435/Ar...nsion.aspx
Potential expansion candidates will be evaluated
"to enhance membership stability and maximize our value," Commissioner John Marinatto said in a statement
Villanova has already been asked and they have stated VU is the first (desired) piece of all this. Reports are that Tagliabue has studied the expansion candidates and met with them-and VU was the first invite.
How does VU "enhance membership stability and maximize our value"?
First, VU is a member in all other sports. By adding them the league is making more of a "bridge" between the basketball side and the football side. A problem over a long period has been having extra conference games and was the first issue mentioned in discussing expansion for the league. VU adds such a 9th game. Having this issue solved makes the football side happier and also doesn't upset the bb side-enhancing the stability of the league by making it a bit less likely for a split to occur.
VU also helps to maximize value by: Eliminating a buy game for each league member, adding a fourth home game for those that previously had three, adding Philadelphia to the BE markets for football which is very attractive to television executives, adding 8 possible league games to the Big East football package for tv plus non-conference games that could be of value to the network.
How does TCU meet the evaluation criteria?
TCU is a top ten football program. Adding a top ten football program quickly helps in stabilizing football--it legitimizes the BCS AQ, takes away some criticism of the league and adds another very strong football program making bolting to another league that much less enticing. If the existing football members believe the BCS is safe and that they will earn much more money than now in relation to the other leagues, bolting and splitting become less favorable options. This in turn helps to minimize the constant "split" threats that bb may be concerned about.
Value wise of course you are adding the DFW market to BE tv packages-another high value for tv types. You are not just adding games to the tv package as with VU, but games with a top ten program now part of a BCS league--something sure to be of high value to any network. You are adding a potentially 9th conference game that would eliminate the need to buy yet another game. You are improving recruiting grounds for league members. You are greatly increasing the area of positive exposure for the league by adding a Texas team. Them being a top ten program and reducing league detractors also is of great value. TCU is also a highly regarded top notch school and this increases the academic rep of the league as well.
UCF? UCF helps to stabilize the league by adding a close member to USF-taking them off the island they are on. This would also quickly become a valuable rivalry game for the league. Adding them brings a yearly visit to Florida for league teams. They improve the recruiting territory. They are a steadily improving football program with a huge school and alumni base-all very good for the league. Orlando is the 19th largest tv market and is very attractive for both tv executives and tv crews. They like the others would add much to the tv packages with more league games for the package and a very desirable location for league members and tv types alike. Facilities are excellent and the school is on par with existing membership.