Long time lurker, finally signed up, first time poster
I am happy to see Whittman has the guts to make such a move. When my son told me, I thought, why not? Why not find a coach now, adjust in 2016 but get the ball rolling. The other option (IMO) was to essentially gut 2016 and 2017. 2016 might have had some success under Cubit due to retuning talent, but recruting would have taken a huge hit due to uncertainty of next coach or because next coach would have little to no time to recruit.
I see some some are excited to see Lovie Smith bandied about. However, the caveat seems to be "under the circumstances." I am not one who would be excited about this hire.
Advantages:
a players coach
NFL experience
Super Bowl experience.
Recognizeable name
Disadvantages:
Hasn't been in NCAA for long time.
Not charismatic, despite the name
Defensive scheme is soft, bend don't break.
Offensive scheme (IMO) is too conservative. It seems like many strong DC types " don't screw it up for the defense. We will win it for you"
Questions:
He was a "players'" coach as an NFL man. However, while he treated them with respect, a great attribute, will he install discipline in college kids?
Will this translate to recruiting beyond name recognition?
Can he assemble a college type (i.e. Recruiters) staff, especially this late in game. And I am not buying into the Frazier and Singletary's of the world leaving NFL potions for college coordiantor especially at Illinois.
Despite all the chatter, I am doubting Lovie will be willing to restart a career in the NCAA.