The last numbers I saw had the football program at or near an annual $70 million profit. ND is unique and being independent is one of the corner stones of the program in my opinion. I love the freedom in scheduling it allows and the thought of having to share bowl revenue with conference bottom feeders does not sit well with me. The Irish should embrace the challenge of independence as opposed to the safety of a conference (which in my opinion rewards mediocrity - hello Kansas football). The Irish got more than $8 million for making the CFP last year and unlike the other 3 did not have to share a penny. At the very least, making a New Years 6 Bowl will pay the Irish close to that as well so I see no reason to join a football conference. No way Rutgers or Oregon State or Indiana or Vandy or any other scrub team should get a piece of what the Irish earned.