LOGAN – In the early days of Name, Image and Likeness money seeping into college sports, a poll indicated 67 percent of athletes who were already considering transferring said that NIL would play a role in their decision. Aggie fans argue it is the lack of NIL funds that has driven some student-athlete stars right out of Cache Valley. Just this weekend, Aggie defensive lineman Phillip Paea, who came to Utah State from Michigan two years ago, but had recently joined the transfer portal, announced on social media he was transferring to Oklahoma. That makes six Aggie defensive players who have left for the Big 12. At a time when the Aggies appear to be most in need of it, help is apparently building in the form of “collectives”, groups of supporters, independent of the school’s department of athletics, who want to create the support here that athletes at other schools are enjoying. 🔵⚪️ We are excited to announce the @BlueACollective, endorsed by @USUAthletics! ⚪️🔵 Co-founded by Eric Laub and Coach Gary Andersen, @BlueACollective will empower USU athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness while supporting the Cache Valley Community. #GoAggies pic.twitter.com/OTT3SBZ2C2 — Blue A Collective (@BlueACollective) May 30,