The only way Jerrance gets a chance at UI in 6 years is if Underwood fails. And if Underwood fails and Jerrance is on his staff, his chances deduce to zero.
His chances of getting a HC position at some other school are much better at KU (a blue blood) under a HOF coach. Illinois makes zero sense and actually a move to UI would decrease his chances. I doubt he wants to wait six years, but knowing him personally, he will wait for the right opportunity.
If you imply that Norm Roberts is the top assistant, that is because Norm Roberts has been with Self as a loyal assistant for a gazillion years. Norm has failed miserably though at 2 HC stints, so no, he is not getting another opportunity before Jerrance. It is quite possible that Norm Roberts may never become a HC again, he is not that marketable as HC. But a really good assistant.
LOL... Jerrance Howard had been the heart and soul of Illinois for so many years. He has to come back to learn what the Illini culture is??? Are we crazy here?
Come back for what? Get a chance to become an assistant again at a lower ranked school (UI vs. KU) under a lower ranked coach? No offense, I hope Brad Underwood becomes a huge success, but he is not exactly Bill Self. C'mon... Yet, your statement is to get a chance to coach at UI in 6 years? How?