What UT fans would settle for...been round the web. VN, VQ, feelslikeracist.com, and 247 all would be happy with Jimbo or Patterson or worse.
Patterson would have a hell of a time recruiting in the SEC IMO. He just doesn't have the personality for it. He's a good fit for TCU. I'd actually be good with Jimbo. He understands the SEC and the importance of recruiting. I'd be good with Mora too. He has the flare and confidence you need in a coach, plus he's a defensive guy.
We have an "if not Gruden, who's your next choice" poll at Rocky Top Talk. Currently, Charlie Strong is leading, followed by (in order): Fisher, Patterson, Other, Petrino (ugh)
There are a few out there on the sites you mention that are singing his praises. I just dont understand the allure.
I like Mora too if we should have to look elsewhere ... that dude is wound tight as shit and I love it
I was one of Golden's biggest fans back in 2010. I don't think he's the guy. I still think he's a decent coach, but he's not what we need. I think the same reaction that Golden is getting now is what Franklin would get if he left for a bigger school.
I don't think we wiff on Gruden and I'm sure everyone else on here believes the same ... but it's still fun to just speculate and talk about all of the possibilities. I agree with you tho ... everyone besides Gruden would just be settling for third best.