what if.....FBS vs FCS

[crazzymark]

OK, let's go....
FCS - So for point of argument, let's say that ISU gets it together and finishes 7-4, and SIU finishes 7-4. Now, let's also say that NDSU, YSU, SD, SDSU,WIU and UNI all make the 24 with 8 wins. It comes down to the last pick and it is between ISU and SIU. SIU gets in and ISU is ranked and done. They (the 24 teams)play for no payoff and maybe a trophy.
FBS - We all know that unless you are in the P5, there will be no playoff for you. Now what is the motivation for all the other conferences(SUNBELT,AAC,MWC,MAC,CUSA,INDEPENDENTS,ETC). have to play week to week?? Two things, one, a conference championship, two, a bowl appearance. There will be 36 bowl games this season, not counting the playoffs and championship. Many of these teams and conferences would be in the Military Bowl on down ($1,000,000.00 to $4450,000.00 payout according Satisticbrain.com via NCAA) as well as player goody bags and play for a payoff and a trophy.
Now it is arguable that most teams in the MVC could be competitive in most lesser conferences and with the added scholarships, would be be in the mix for a championship more than not every season. So would you rather see ISU get 7 wins and might get "picked for no payoff and maybe a trophy? Or, ISU get 7 or 8 wins(12 game season) and get a bowl appearance, a payout and a guaranteed trophy? And with that payout , more money for the FB program, facility and equipment improvements, better coaches salaries, more fans in the seats and more alumni donations. (no ISU is not the leaking boat NIU is) So dare to be the next best thing, like UCF or USF (BOTH RANKED) AND GO BIG and WIN THIS GAME!!!!

 

[Redbird28]

"It is well documented that each year at least 10 and perhaps as many as 20 schools lose money after subtracting travel expenses and mandatory ticket purchases. Plus they only receive a share of the total bowl payout since the payout goes to the conference."

Source -- https://www.forbes.com/sites/prishe/2014/01/01/do-the-economics-of-bowl-games-make-sense-for-schools-sponsors/#4a67f93113cf

In some cases you have to be very careful what you wish for. This comes up periodically, but what he is talking about above is the most important piece of information to consider when thinking about FBS vs FCS.

Do I want to see the Redbirds in an FBS Conference? Yes.

Do I want to see the Redbirds in an FBS Conference at the expense of the future of the program because they would presumably be one of the 10-20 schools taking a financial loss in a lesser known bowl game? No.