It's much more than "one individual " that's at stake. It's the message that we're willing to go toe to toe financially with the big boys. Anyone can say we're a top 10 program in a press conference or interview... it's completely different to back it up with tangible actions. People - recruits, other coaches, fans, boosters, the community they all notice that and it creates that positive reinforcement loop.WestSuburbanIllini: "We might truly be in the process of shaking our "University of East Central Illinois" reputation..."
Coach Underwood: “We’re a Top Ten program. We should ACT like it... We’ve got to continue to act like ‘The Duke’s and whoever you wanna talk about...”
One way to act like a Top Ten program is to not obsess over what any one individual (or two) decide to do with their lives. Have a foundation of confidence and pride and a program that’s all about bringing out the best in all the talent who choose to go there. Emphasis on: Program. Not any individual.
Josh Whitman and Coach Underwood have been all about healing the wounds of past Illini disappointments. They could hardly have done a better job up until now. These are intelligent guys who have proven they know how to get results... Acting Like a Top Ten Program. They "Get It".
Also, it's the continuity and momentum that's at play - not just "an individual ". Yes I agree that we can and should expect to be able to find someone of comparable caliber if one or both of these coaches go. But acting like a top 10 program doesn't mean letting someone come in your backyard and take your stuff without a fight.