BYU athletics and particularly football was essential when BYU was trying to prove legitimacy. When it was a new university or behind Utah and USU in its own state, it needed brand name recognition, fans and support, etc., Remember Harvard and University of Chicago had strong athletics programs back in the 40's, but they outgrew them. BYU went from being a school in the 60's where people would say, "Where is that?" to a household name and nationally respected university. So, Yes students owe their current status to football, but that doesn't mean it needs to continue in perpetuity.