And it isn't a Virginia Tech issue. It's not possible to keep up with the new P2 over the long haul. We're competing with both hands tied behind our backs - a situation that will become exponentially worse over time. You can't blame coaches and players for leaving when other schools offer them life changing amounts of money. We are now playing in what is essentially a wild, wild west version of professional football, but we're stuck in the crappiest division and our "owner" is a garden variety millionaire while the competitive teams are owned by billionaires. Fixes or solutions? 1) We become a part of the problem and somehow land a bid to one of the P2 (this outcome seems increasingly less likely as we descend further into sustained mediocrity). 2) The ACC and Big 12 merge to form a third power conference and secure a competitive media rights deal to those enjoyed by the SEC/BIG. (the merger part might happen, but the revenue equity seems like a long shot). 3) The powers that be (conferences, NCAA, state/federal legislatures) step in to regulate college football in some meaningful way to restore some degree of parity. I'm not sure what can be done (maybe nothing) when it comes to media revenue, but they should certainly be able to put some limits on the insanity that is NIL and the transfer portal (not sure how likely this scenario, or some version of it, might be - maybe 50/50). 4) Non-P2 conferences tell the "big boys" to go play with themselves, break with them entirely (no non-conference games - a total divorce with binding restraining orders in place) and form some reconstituted version of college athletics that actually involves educating student athletes (this feels almost impossible). I've held season tickets since I graduated and have been a consistent Hokie Club member at at least the Silver level since the early 2000s. I live in Charlotte and reluctantly decided to drop $95+ parking to watch a team down 12 starters lose a bowl game in front of what might have been 30K people. I had fun with my cousin, my Hokie football buddy since we both graduated in 1984, but we agreed last night that the wheels are completely off the bus. I'll continue to buy season tickets but my Hokie Club donation will drop to a participation level. I refuse to help fuel the absolute BS that college football has become with money I could be giving to other "charitable" organizations that actually help people. Helping buy luxury cars for 19 year-old kids just isn't on my list of philanthropic priorities. ** Edited by VTHokieCub at 1/4/2025, 5:52:26 PM