The Big10 is a better conference, but they(NE) hadn't done anything long before that. Recruiting to a school that isn't in a glitzy state can be tough, and doesn't currently have a strong program is even tougher. I'm a Boilermaker. Purdue is the "Cradle of Quarterbacks" and it's tough to consistently be in the top 25-50% of the conference.
The biggest problem is most conferences can't afford to match player salary like the SEC...
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2014 4R SR5 - 3" Dobinsons, 285/70 Wild Peak AT3, RCI Skid & Sliders, CBI Bumper, Firewire light bar, Diode Dynamics Fogs