for me it is an attempt to stay relevant, maybe even appear relevant. I don't fault him for doing it, but make no mistake about it, he wouldn't be doing it if BYU was in a stronger position than they currently are as an independent.
I have lived in Utah most of my life and the rivalry for me spans multiple decades. Some great times back in the 70's and 80's and not so good times during the 90's and 00's. I would like to see it continue, but Utah doesn't feel like it is tied to BYU anymore. Their focus is on the PAC 12, where it should be. The Michigan series notwithstanding, I can see it being played once or twice every few years, but I doubt it becomes a regularly scheduled game again.