Athletic directors of current and soon-to-be Mountain West Conference members were briefed today on a proposed strategic alliance between the conference and Conference USA for TV rights, scheduling and, perhaps, a Bowl Championship Series berth.

C-USA commissioner Britton Banowsky told the Star-Advertiser, "I think it is premature to think in terms of next year (2012) for sure, but  the following year (2013) is something that is possible, I think."

Banowsky said it would be football-only alliance designed to increase TV rights fees, enhance scheduling and lead to an automatic BCS berth for the winner of a playoff between the champions of the two conferences.

The briefing took place in Dallas where the National Division IA Athletic Directors Association is holding its annual meeting. Banowsky said the reaction of attendees was "very positive."

University of Hawaii athletic director Jim Donovan is attending the sessions. UH, currently in the Western Athletic Conference, will join the MWC Aug. 1, 2012.