Five possibilities to replace UAB in Conference USA

4.) Appalachian State Mountaneers

Aug 30, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Appalachian State Mountaineers defensive back Dante Blackmon (24) receives congratulations from linebacker Osvaldo Sombo (30) after making an interception in the third quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The fourth possibility for the replacement of recently announced departing UAB is new to the FBS in Appalachian State. The previously FCS division school just joined the Sun Belt in all sports in 2013. However, App State has a rich football tradition that is appetizing for any conference looking to beef up. App State is most notorious for their 2008 win over Michigan at the Big House. The Mountaineers are the only team in division one football to win three consecutive national titles since an Army team which did so in the early 40’s. For Appalachian State, it would be a very quick rise to the top ranks. All of that being said, however, it just seems fitting that the Mountaineers and their fan base get a shot at Conference USA. Along with that – while I have addressed what rivalries it would create – they would have a good rivalry with the Thundering Herd of Marshall. Along with the rivalry they could have they could automatically replace UAB in the Eastern division of CUSA. Appalachian State would be welcomed into CUSA with open arms.

5.) Eastern Kentucky University Colonels

Nov 22, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; Eastern Kentucky Colonels quarterback Bennie Coney (4) throws the ball to running back Dy

The 5th and final team that could replace the Blazers is the Eastern Kentucky Colonels. EKU would come out of the gates and renewing an old rivalry with new our Tops. The Colonels would also have a possible rivalry with Marshall. It was rumored a few years ago that the Colonels were looking to make the jump from the FCS level to playing big boy competition level. Along with their desire to play at the FBS level, EKU is a 21-time conference champion of the OVC in football showing they have the ability to be competitive in play. Overall, I think EKU would be a great addition because they would make natural rivalries and they would once again fit right into the Eastern Division filling the void made by the Alabama Board of Trustees in pulling UAB’s football program.

The loss of UAB surely stings to the fans of the Blazers and as a human you can’t help but feel a little sympathy towards their fans and players and have a little anger towards the Alabama Board of Trustees. However, like all things in today’s world this was a business decision that came down to numbers and had to be made. In the end C-USA will chose the school and program who shows the greatest ability to compete in all sports across the board, and who will help the conference advance among the ranks. Just like the Board did with UAB, Conference USA will make “a business decision.”