way?

Other programs provide the same financial incentives, and you get even more financial benefit from bigger schools like Ok State and BYU.

But they're no better than the Big 12. It's a group of schools that are all about the same size/prestige. I don't know how Utah doesn't respect them and play nice.

Do they think being difficult puts them in a position to jump conferences?

This is why most conferences don't take schools based on a few years of success. College sports are cyclical. You take the best financial opportunity. Why do you think they took USC? They haven't been good lately, but they WILL be good again.

Utah offers a big conference nothing. Other schools in the Big 12 are closer geographically. Schools like BYU, Ok State, and maybe even UCF are worth more financially. Other schools win more. Why does Utah think it's uniquely the best candidate?