Initial thought before digging, IDK how they will pull this off.
From what I've read the scheduling agreement for 2024 (which passed the renewal date for 2025 without an agreement) stated that if the PAC2 wanted MWC schools, the schools would have to pay the $18m "poaching" exit fee. Per school. But if they took all MWC schools, a la a merger, there are zero fees.
I've seen several places say the PAC2 does not want Hawaii or SJSU. So who knows.
I'd try and go after the Dakotas/Montanas too.
Supposedly when SDSU was thinking of joining the PAC before the final exodus, UNT, UTSA, and TX St were on the MWC wish list. I could see the MWC going after them or even the PAC. Remember, the MWC media deal is $4m/yr for CBS/FOX and runs through '25 season. But they also just signed a deal with TNT that adds to that and is several years. So there is opportunity to get this done quick for the next MWC deal and it could affect more than just CUSA.
The new AAC schools are making $3.5m so while they may not run, UTEP/NMSU would and TX St might as the SBC deal is just under $1m. UTEP/NMSU also signed a GOR with CUSA through '27, so they'll have to pay out of that too. That's $2.4m right now (800k per year).
If I were Judy, I'd be on the horn now talking to the PAC and MWC. Not only about losing schools, but merger with east/west, etc. There are lots of options.
