To clarify, the “ coach in waiting” was not meant to be contractually binding. Simply a known opportunity in the not too distant future.
Also, no proven top-notch OC from a “big-time” program is going to come to USF as for a HC gig. If they are smart enough to be a top OC at a big-time program, they’ll bide their time an extra couple years (at an already large salary) for a desirable P5 job to open up (whether at OC or HC). The only exception would possibly be someone with deep USF or Tampa ties; but even then its unlikely.
I’m floating the idea of someone actually interested in a future HC gig at USF. Such as a Young coordinator without enough resume to get a Coordinator position at a “big time” program, or proven coordinator at a non-“big time” program. And if he does not progress accordingly, he’s not promoted. No “promises” have to be made. Simply knowing the “opportunity” for a HC position in 5-8 years is there is enough. And if the opportunity is not enticing enough, who cares, at least CJL will be an improvement over Chuckles. And that forward momentum buys time to figure out the next best step.
and good luck finding the “next” big thing young coach with little resume. The odds will be greatly against nailing that hire. Great, a 70%+ chance we fail another 3-4 years and we get to try again. And if USF does nail that hire, he’ll be gone in 2 years time. I dont like the odds.