1) I think Muschamp was going to be targeted for a head coaching gig before Applewhite (In fact, I’ve been convinced for a while now that Muschamp would be the guy should Tommy the Tiger get the ax).

2) I doubt Brown is going anywhere for a good while so naming as successor like Muschamp will only help defensive recruiting (in regards to stability).

In our situation, before Jimbo Fisher ever stepped on campus some of us were counting the days till Coach Bowden was out the door. When Jimbo was named HCIW we immediately began the countdown until the other shoe would drop. This led to the fractured power dynamic that others on here have so eloquently discussed.

I doubt Texas alumni, fans, coaches, and players have the same expectation of imminent retirement for Brown as we do Coach Bowden. I’m guessing it will be at least five years before Mack decides to go anywhere. Mack will stay the boss for quite some time, and if Will sucks… there’s plenty of time to rethink his HCIW status.

All in all, I see this move as preemptive diversion from some offseason turmoil that might have ensued had Tennessee et al come calling, a “commitment” by both sides that can at least be sold to the recruits, and (if he does a good job and sticks with UT) a good snag of one of the top young coordinators in the game. I also think there’s plenty of time to get out of the agreement should the relationship between Muschamp and the Longhorns go south. It is brilliant for its PR implications.