Advantage over byu in recruiting/conference success/ head to head, etc in 2-3 years now that we're in the same conference. I heard the sales pitch first-hand from Utah. That was their only competitive advantage (besides spinning the honor code). If Utah stays in the big 12, it becomes little brother to bigger brand- byu in just a few seasons (especially if Whit retires).
I actually wouldn't be surprised to see Utah make a move to the acc because their leadership knows they can't compete with byu long-term in the same conference.