The "other" bowl ratings data completely contradicts your theory that BYU has this astronomically larger fan base.

At the same time, why discount the BCS Bowls? One of the biggest drivers behind the money and the Pac-12 deal is the networks' abilities to pick up games that will be more compelling on a national level.

For example, Stanford-Oregon last year turned out to be a HUGE game. 2 years prior, no one would've guessed. Utah has at least shown the ability to field a top 5 team that could bring about a HUGE draw. It's been decades since BYU has had a top 5 team.

Perhaps it's fair to say they lack that capability.