I wouldn’t be surprised that Kennedy didn’t know anything. Plausible deniability on BH’s part. Even if Hauck and Brett B talked at the coaches convention during the FBS Championship, I’m sure words like “suppose that this scenario were to happen but, just for the case of discussion only”. Then he retires and he and Harlem have a mutual agreement to call the separation a retirement. Or maybe Illinois will pay a buyout. Last year of a contract not very much, especially if an extension wasn’t offered. Then you name a CEO type replacement that openly states he will let his very veteran coaches coach and he will go out and promote Griz Football around the state, something many say is desperately needed. You have MANY current Griz coaches that are near retirement and would love to take one last shot with an all American QB, Running Back and elite young receiver. I’m going to be paying attention to what coaches are hired and also will be remembering Justin Green is only 4 hours away. Transition in a year or two will be very important as well. I know Kennedy was not the plan in being brought here because of timing. He was not working (maybe was retired himself unless the right job was offered) but went to help a friend when Bryce Erickson left at the 11th hour. Pease couldn’t be HC and OC effectively at the same time. He chooses OC. Then the next best options are put on the table and here we are. With Ah Yat being a junior, I can see this going two years before a change is made. And as for Hauck taking the job, good for him. Illinois has people that deal with agents as their job. He just coaches ball with no distractions from know-it-all fans and Monday press conferences. All to get paid double what he earns now.
