Seems like the MW has garnered some respect as the better G5 conference in the pre-season polls. Like it or not they play a big role on how quickly teams rise. With the new alignment in 2014.

Coaches Poll:
MW teams:#19 BSU, Fresno 36 votes, Utah St 23 votes, San Jose 8 votes.

AAC teams: Tulsa 9 votes, Cincy 3, ECU 3 UCF 2

MAC teams: N. Ill 19 votes, Ohio 8 votes, Kent St. 3 votes, Toledo 1

AP Poll:
MW teams: #19 BSU, Fresno St 36, Utah St. 8 votes

AAC teams: Cincy 3 votes

MAC teams: N. Ill 16 votes


Seems like the MW will be in good position for that Access Bowl spot.

The problem with that is the AAC this year has a team in the TOP TEN; they also have 4 others getting votes... The AAC also has a full season as an AQ to raise the awareness of the newcomers. If Louisville doesn't win the AAC easily, the strength of the conference will become more visible! If the AAC teams playing the MW teams win, it will be a big blow to the MW gains in the pre-season polls.