but the "BCS bowls earned it for us" argument rings hollow since I haven't seen the PAC12 or Big12 beating down Boise State's doors.

By adding BYU the PAC12 would have added the SLC TV market PLUS sizable extra viewers within their footprint and beyond AND put more butts in their seats when hosting BYU.

But their decision wasn't about money (for once, and against Larry Scott's advice ... but this is part of the reason the PAC12 network has been struggling).