The pro sports argument is way overblown IMO in terms of recruiting, (and I used to believe it to be true.) I don't believe for a second that a recruit would choose to go to Lincoln or Iowa City because they'd be "the center of attention." Players are choosing where to go based on money, playing time, and perks/facilities. Nobody is reading the newspaper anymore much less being concerned about being on the front page.
The only thing I believe where it does/can affect the Gophers is in terms of attendance, because there are other options for finite entertainment dollars in this market. Look at Gopher hoops. They've put a bad product out for years, play in an awful environment, and people are choosing other options.
