The hope is that UConn would get into the ACC or Big Ten in the new round of expansion.
How we can get into the Big Ten:
-with Kansas
-with Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas
Getting into the Big Ten would be tough. If the PAC lands TX+TXAM+OU+OKST, then we could be the pair for Kansas, though that would mean the Big Ten taking two weak football programs. If the Big Ten lands its trifecta of TX+OU+KU, I think they woukd target Colorado for the 18th spot. If Colorado decides they'd rather stay in the PAC though, we are the only obvious candidate left for the last spot.
How we can get into the ACC:
-with Notre Dame
-with Notre Dame and two other teams (such as Temple and/or West Virginia and/or Cincinnati)
Without Texas and/or Oklahoma, the Big 12 would no longer be a power conference (and would probably cease to exist altogether as most of its teams get picked up by other leagues), thus leaving four power conferences. The playoff would (probably) then become the winner of each of the four, meaning Notre Dame would be forced to join a conference if they want to be eligible for the national championship. Due to their contract with the ACC, there is only one conference they're allowed to join. With 15 full members, the ACC would need another member and UConn would be a serious candidate (and probably the favorite) for the 16th spot. In the unlikely event they decide to expand to 18 to match the Big Ten, our chances of getting in are excellent.