I can't load that link because I'm on vacation in a country with shit internet, but I gather that it's a bit dated. If it's about what I think it's about, WVU is trending upward in research beleive it or not. WVU students broke the Volkswagen emissions thing, which was kind of a big deal. Their biometrics/CS department has done some cool stuff too.

They aren't Northwestern, but they've done some shit and are getting better overall academically.

Frankly, business wise, conferences may be focused on dollar signs and may be willing to look at trends and bend standards for schools that show promise.

I think there is a good chance that the Big Ten could look at WVU and see a legit asset to the conference