this seems to be a hot topic at the moment on these boards. i've been in the intermediate pool for quite some time now and i'm wondering the same thing. i've looked through past years' threads and it sounds, unfortunately, like chances of getting an interview after being an intermediate are extremely slim. but, i'm not giving up hope. i heard the same thing about suny upstate, and i recently received an interview invitation from them after being on hold for a few months.
i've heard that mr rosso - the admissions coordinator (?) - at buffalo is very helpful. you might want to contact him and ask about the intermediate pool. best of luck.