I think sports fans in general underestimate the importance of academics in these conference lineups/shakeups.1987alum wrote:Schade is on target here. Take a look at the graduate program offerings of MAC schools (including Temple) to those of Western Kentucky and you'll see a stark difference.
I have no basis for this, but here's my theory - the MAC presidents like the idea of being shoulder-to-shoulder with Temple's academics. This might make them more likely to grit their teeth and take on WKU, understanding the athletic (and marketing) advantages while forgiving the academic shortcomings. Again, just an unsubstantiated theory.
Now, Western Kentucky definitely has some assets. Their basketball tradition doesn't take a back seat to anyone in the MAC, and they are in a new state.
But -- academics matter. They even matter to me, and I haven't worn a cape and gown since 1992.
Temple never bothered me as much as it bothered others in part because, fundamentally, Temple is a school I don't mind rubbing shoulders with. It's one of three major state universities in Pennsylvania -- a place Bowling Green would still like to get to in Ohio.
I feel the same way about Buffalo. That's a good school. I want to hang out with schools like that.
Massachusetts is a good school, too -- and, ultimately, that form my opinion on whether I'd prefer UMass over WKU (and I do, if it can be done).
