based on the school for which they played football. I'm sure it's difficult to quantify, but I think many recruits and even some fans greatly undervalue the network and opportunities that playing football at BYU presents - especially for the players who are members of the church.

Being a well-known BYU football player basically makes you a household name for thousands of LDS families across the country/globe. You've just created an infrastructure of recognition and opportunity that directly impacts your interaction with every LDS congregation you'll be a part of for the rest of your life. There are many successful BYU fans who would enjoy the chance to employ a former BYU football player, for example. Reno Mahe alluded to this as the "Mormon Mafia." Every D1 program will present opportunities, but what makes BYU unique is the connection to the church. To me, as a member of the church, it's a no-brainer to encourage my kid to play at BYU (especially if you call yourself a BYU fan).

That being said, I understand there are times when it just isn't the best fit for the kid to play at BYU, for a variety of reasons (i.e. scholarships, position needs, family circumstances, etc.). This post is not meant to disparage anyone. Life is complex. Go Cougs, although Sitake needs a slap in the face after Saturday haha