Thanks for the input, bobbyake. However, I think CUSA is still stronger even without SMU, Memphis, and UCF. If the MAC gets JMU and ODU and kicks out Florida Atlantic, I think the MAC has the edge in men's soccer. I'd like to see the MAC add SIU in all sports as well.
I'm all for the jump to CUSA. If the administration is given the opportunity, I think they take it. If nothing else, it puts us in a conference that is not already watered down with Ohio schools. I like the rivalries with Ohio, Miami, Toledo, and Can't, but they can still be maintained with OOC scheduling. Joe Akron certainly does not want to see a schedule full of directional Michigans.
I also disagree with GP1's idea for a new division/league/conference featuring football in the spring. No way that has momentum if starting during March madness or shortly thereafter. And any later and the school year is over making it an awkward transition for incoming and graduating players. Being offset with the NFL schedule also guarantees that no recruit aspiring to play professionally would take a chance with this new schedule if given a chance at a I-A program. It makes us the default second tier. I know, that's where we are now, but it is certainly not where we aspire to be a few years down the road.