that's why I like the 16 game tourney...all 11 D-1As get in with 5 at large bids.
I like your idea for a 16 team tourney, but I think it should be the eight best conferences from the previous year and eight at large teams. I don't think that the WAC and, yes, the Big East should automattically get a bid just because they exist. The other eight would be at large teams.
It's the only fair thing to do. Just like in basketball we'll hear whining from the bubble at large teams that don't get in but if you don't win your conference don't complain about not going to the dance.