and when they were invited and accepted into the Pac 8 Arizona wasn't either. Oregon didn't become a member of the AAU until years after they joined (depending on how you look at the history of the Pac 12). So, my point is that the notion of the Pac 12 not inviting BYU because they're not a member of the AAU and classified as a research institution is a false one because the Pac 12 has proven that false throughout their history. It makes for a convenient excuse but it's a smokescreen for the real reason.

Is the real reason that BYU is too small or doesn't draw good ratings or attendance? No. Is the real reason they don't field enough D1 sports or aren't competitive enough? No. Is the real reason BYU would be a financial drain on the rest of the conference and not be able to pull their own weight financially? No. Is the real reason that BYU has never been to a BCS Bowl game? I'd be surprised if that was the lone criteria. Colorado has been to one BCS Bowl game a decade ago and got blown out 38-16. Both BYU and Colorado have played in the Fiesta Bowl before there was a BCS system. I'd be very surprised if the criteria for joining the Pac 12 is that at the very minimum all you need to do is get blown out in a BCS Bowl game to qualify.

So, really, when you boil it all down and the fat renders off, (and taking into account the LDS Churchs current/recent history in California and the entertainment industry) what's left is the ugly truth. I'm not saying Utah didn't deserve a shot or an invitation, or that they don't have a good program, just that the reason BYU didn't get a shot is pretty plain and the excuses you hear to the contrary don't hold water or pass the smell test based on the facts.