BYU pretty much gets the same $$$ in 2018 no matter who the Cougs play at home. But, 2019, was either the first year of a new ESPN contract or the one year extension under the current deal. Holmoe made sure that he stacked 2019 for obvious negotiation purposes. 2019 has USC, Washington, Utah and Boise St at home. So don't panic that 2018 is light. That was intentional to help stack future home schedules for the new ESPN contract. Holmoe is playing it super smart. Look for the rewards of a lighter 2018 home schedule in a bigger ESPN TV contract going forward. If BYU is to remain viable as an INDY, the next TV deal needs to significantly richer and Holmoe is setting the table to make that happen.

Also, the Va Tech game is scheduled for much the same reasons. Yes, it is out there a long ways. But, TV deals are 8-10 years and Holmoe wants to be able to point to enticing match ups that far out.