Oregon:
Do you not believe that their rise has something to do with their marketing? They have tons of money due to Mr. Nike, but the money has also been put to good use. The Oregon name has been publicized and advertised everywhere, and it has helped them. A significant amount of that pub is due to their TERRIBLE uniforms. But it has been good pub.
When you don't have money like Oregon, you have to get creative.
Creativity you ask?
inexpensive advertising like??? Billboards, working with adidas on new unis that we likely don't have to purchase. If we do, its probably at a discounted price. New and cutting edge uniforms bring attention (ask Maryland). You might think they are ugly and maybe I do too. Who cares? If they bring attention to MSU and its not negative in a way that is detrimental, then it is a good thing.