The money. It's manifest itself w an unprecedented type of HC hire, staff hiring, & a whole new level of recruiting.
I think Pope's expansive vision got our Ath Dept & Admins to see that BYU COULD really make a name for ourselves in the Big 12 — IF we chose to sacrifice a few of our cherished hangup mores — & to also let our boosters take ownership in a way our prudish past Admins wouldn't allow.