ESPN.com · Sep 7, 2016
With Big 12 backing, Houston may eclipse schools that helped fuel its rise
More than three decades ago, the University of Miami ascended from obscurity to a national power, buoyed by a plentiful recruiting base, an innovative coach and a cutting-edge brand.
Because of the huge money involved in Power 5 leagues and the widespread exposure that helps funnel recruits outside of their home regions, such a rise -- which resulted in four national titles for the Hurricanes -- simply could not happen today for an independent or Group of 5 program.
But what if a Power 5 conference infused financial resources and mega-exposure into a hot program at just the right moment? It could create a problem for its league members.