MAC schools are a step above these schools. The problem with C-USA is its mix between I-AA step-ups (UTSA, Old Dominion, Charlotte) and legitimate I-A programs that were left behind in the food chain (Rice, UTEP, Marshall). Rice was playing big time football before six C-USA schools were even founded.
True story: A decade ago, Rice undertook a study whether to maintain I-A football or maintain Division I sports at all. Among the options considered, and then quickly taken off the table: joining the Patriot League.
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