Lawboy wrote:
Let's all remember that the MTN Network is separate ownership and management from the MWC. Business partners, yes, but with varied needs and goals. The MWC may be completely down with doing what BYU wants, but it the MTN will not play ball, it seals the deal. And if the MTN does not deal, it could harm their own interests as well as relations with the MWC. This will get political. The MTN has a long term interest in keeping the MWC happy, or it could get dumped at the next TV deal.
I think the MTN Network is more in favor of BYU sticking around than the Conference. I think the Conference's attitude is that BYU would be great, but it's not a necessity. In fact, there's quite a bit of "we'll show you" attitude among the Conference and school officials.
The MTN Network, on the other hand, is probably putting mighty pressure on the MWC to do what it can to at least allow the MTN to televise BYU's away games.