It seems pretty clear that most people on this board consider Van Diest to be the "next hire", whether at MSU or UM. If he goes to MSU, I think that is a good hire for them, given the circumstances. I also think it is a good thing for UM.
I know that is sacreligious, but here is why I think so. I will start by saying I am not a big Van Diest fan. I remember him when he was here the first time, and wasn't a big fan then. I also remember the things he said about UM when he was fired with the rest of Donovan's staff. He can clearly coach at the NAIA level, but I am just not a huge fan. It remains to be seen how he can recruit on this level.
If he doesn't go to MSU, and BH leaves, there will be a certain (loud)faction that will insist that O'Day immediately drive to Helena and hire Van Diest. I don't think this would be good.
However, if VD does go to MSU, UM can actually look at all available candidates without a lot of pressure to hire one particular candidate. There may be some pressure for a couple of in-house candidates, but don't think it would be as much as if VD were still on the market.
I know I am in the minority on this, but I think this may work out for the best for both schools.
I know that is sacreligious, but here is why I think so. I will start by saying I am not a big Van Diest fan. I remember him when he was here the first time, and wasn't a big fan then. I also remember the things he said about UM when he was fired with the rest of Donovan's staff. He can clearly coach at the NAIA level, but I am just not a huge fan. It remains to be seen how he can recruit on this level.
If he doesn't go to MSU, and BH leaves, there will be a certain (loud)faction that will insist that O'Day immediately drive to Helena and hire Van Diest. I don't think this would be good.
However, if VD does go to MSU, UM can actually look at all available candidates without a lot of pressure to hire one particular candidate. There may be some pressure for a couple of in-house candidates, but don't think it would be as much as if VD were still on the market.
I know I am in the minority on this, but I think this may work out for the best for both schools.