But these things are way cyclical. Pac is still a nationally respected conference (see the many articles written about the Pac) and a brand conference. A lesser P5 is still a P5, and a P5 means better recruiting and access and a chance at the CFP. The system is the way it is.
That being said, being in the Pac has been a blast. The losses are painful, and the victories sweet, but EVERY SINGLE YEAR we get geeked to start the football season. The games are dang fun to watch. Sports is entertainment, and ever since joining the Pac, it has been a blast.