It can be tough to schedule tougher for midweek games. You usually have to schedule regional teams because of travel. This has been discussed in basketball. Sometimes, it’s more beneficial to schedule a D2 team that doesn’t count than a below average D1 team. RPI has always had a flaw.
People will learn not to hang on to midweek game results. You certainly want to win most, but losing happens. Pitchers that normally don’t throw get work in.
The interesting thing that UT can provide is more cash upon success as a player. I understand that guys want promises, but Jalin Hyatt and Dalton Knecht made boatloads of money at UT after great performances. The power in numbers.
Not only that but Trey Lipscomb is in the majors. Jordan Beck has had 2 seasons of 20+ home runs. Drew Gilbert hit 18 HR’s last year but was never a huge power guy. Jorel Ortega hit 14 HR’s and 75 RBI’s last year. Our guys are producing in the professional ranks.
While it may be the highest corporate contribution, Spyre generates a good chunk of money for NIL. It’s $5 million per year, and I would guess Spyre has some pretty good donors.
Pretty sure they set many of the national tv games before the season begins. That’s why our series last weekend against LSU was televised all 3 games. They expected a series between two top teams, but LSU isn’t good.
Edit: I see your follow up post. ESPN also has contracts with the NBA and NHL...