When you look at what went on at unc where they actively created academic fraud by creating fake classes etc. where Auburn paid what like 250,000 for cam newton. Alabama paying 50,000 for a linemen a few years ago. Ohio state and their issue of what a new car several years ago. USC and the bush stuff.

It is not an even handed justice system.

However it does underscore the vulnerability of being independent. conference affiliation does offer a safety net of sorts should there ever be an unexpected problem from a revenue standpoint.

I am in no way suggesting it affects independence. Just pointing out that independence has increased revenue vulnerability.