So playing 5 home games, adding a few almost auto losses, Wagner on Sr night in exchange for "considered P5", a few extra million from ESPN, and a minuscule chance at a CFP is great bargain for most people here. But taking independence to the final extreme as in the OP is the "worst idea ever" means that everyone has a breaking point where the sacrifices of independence outweigh the benefits. Just pointing out why some fans who place a bigger premium on home games have become frustrated and bailed on the program.

PS: I thought there'd be a few percent of people who are so fixated on association, strength of schedule, and being "P5" that they'd actually prefer this.