I agree that NT would face a major challenge from SMU, Rice, and maybe event Tulsa when it came to a vote. Marshall might be likely to move, but the question is where to? The Big East is unlikely, but going back to the MAC is not completely out of the question. It's a long shot, but not out of the question because the MAC is not a bad conference.
The big question, in my mind, is will the MWC expand? They seem pretty content where they are, and the whole reason they broke away from the WAC in the first place was because the conference had become too big and "watered down" by teams like Fresno and UTEP. If they expand, Boise is a great candidate, and Nevada would be a close second. Not sure about UTEP, and Fresno's chances are minimal. This is all my opinion, but I think it is fairly accurate. Boise is #1 for obvious reasons. The former president at UNLV always lobbied for Nevada to be in the MWC, and the new president will probably do the same. Fresno has too much scandal in it's past and the MWC does not want any part of that. UTEP has a decent shot, but probably not ahead of Boise and Nevada.
So, if UTEP leaves we are a great geographic fit. If Marshall or Memphis leaves, then it's up in the air. The new push to upgrade facilities, increase coaches salaries, and make a serious commitment to our programs is HUGE. If we come through on some good upgrades and have solid plans for more improvements, then CUSA has to take that seriously when they make their next decision.
As for our detractors, like ULL, ULM, etc. I think they understand the same thing that Tech fans understand; that Tech has a lot of untapped potential. Even with the half-hearted commitment that we have had for the last decade, we have still done pretty well. With a true commitment from the top, we can accomplish great things and everyone realizes that.