Despite considering the move from a financial and timing perspective, Boise State has decided not to leave the Mountain West Conference a year early and join the Big East in 2012, the school announced Wednesday afternoon.
Boise State President Dr. Bob Kustra released a statement announcing the school's plan.
"While we have had several discussions with the Big East and the WAC in moving our sports into those two leagues a year earlier than previously stated, the University feels there were too many obstacles to overcome to make the move at this time. While there certainly would have been advantages in making the move a year early, it became clear that it would not be fiscally responsible, as all of the expenses associated with early entry into the two conferences would not be covered."
According to Brett McMurphy, an early move would have cost the school between $7M-$9M in penalties to the Mountain West and $1.5M to the WAC, where all of Boise's non-football sports are played currently.
The official announcement coincides with the news that the Temple Owls are close to joining the Big East as a full member in 2012. If the Owls do come aboard, an early move doesn't make sense for the Broncos at all.
For more on Broncos football, visit Boise State blog OBNUG, plus SB Nation Denver and Big East Coast Bias.