The way I see it, using the 2007 formula as an example, USF will have to win 2 big games against top ranked (top 20) opponents and go undefeated in the conference in order to be in
the game... but to make it to the top 4, we are ALWAYS going to need help in the form of CHAOS from the other leagues... in 2007 we had a different number 1 every week, that helped
propel USF faster in the polls.
In the future, the new BE might have one or two teams ranked, lets say for example Boise St. and us, and if we play say a Florida or Michigan State on our O.O.C. schedule along with some "easier" games... we will be fine IF we win out, and get some help.
(2007 had WVU at #5 and Auburn at #18)
NO MATTER IF WE WERE IN THE BIG12 OR ACC USF would always need to go this route... UNLESS they adapt Conference Champs as a criteria for making the top 4, then all bets are off and we are DONE!!
Our road has not changed, just the prestige and how much money we receive has...
just my 2 cents... and I also want to go on record and say I think USF is in line to have a special year this year!!