BYU's Departure Creates Voids Elsewhere

BYU announcing it will leave the Mountain West Conference creates a crater-sized hole for the league in its attempt for a guaranteed BCS slot.
But there are apparently other sports that exist, and the Cougars leaving the MWC makes a major impact in men's basketball. The Cougars have been regulars in the NCAA men's basketball tournament, including four straight years.
"You don't want to see a team that gets to the tournament leave," TCU men's basketball coach Jim Christian said. "I do think the league did a good, pre-emptive job of getting Fresno State and Nevada in. I think they have had more NBA draft picks over the last couple of years than either of the schools that are leaving (BYU and Utah). It's still going to be a strong and competitive league."
It's also going to be a league where the frequent flyer miles just got a little longer. Flying to Salt Lake City or Provo isn't short, but it's quicker than a flight to Reno or Fresno.

- Mac Engel