I agree, it worked for TCU when they went to the big least before it imploded. BYU had a chance with that too and decided they didn't want to hurt the WCC's feelings. TCU went to and left the big east before they even arrived. I think it worked out well for them. Even if they had to settle on the exit fee, they still came out way ahead. We have too many in leadership who are not willing to take risks, and are looking for a gaurantee. Independence should have been the third option behind 1.) getting into a conference during that first round of re-alignment(PAC-12/BIG12, 2.) Getting into a conference during the second round of re-alignment(BIG EAST) and if this option fell to peices and we didnt get the same option as TCU, then 3.) Indedependence.
Hindsight is 20/20, but I digress.