UConn is different than UMass, though. UConn is one of, if not the top basketball brands in the game. While UConn football isn’t quite at the level of its basketball programs, they are still a nationally recognized school. UMass isn’t as widely known. The Big10 wouldn’t take affiliate teams until John’s Hopkins lacrosse and Notre Dame Hockey. Why couldn’t the MAC, who could stand to use some brand recognition and allow UConn a spot. Gives Buffalo and UMass a partner school. Maybe if UConn were to throw in a couple of out of conference games the MAC’s way, it would really help the brand.
The big question is will UConn want to play a MAC schedule to get where they want to go?