I mean going from the Sun Belt to the SEC seems like a no-brainer if you are try to move your career upward. Also, from MTSU to MSU is not much of a geographic move either.
"With McNeill at the defensive helm, the Red Raiders' defense improved in every defensive category.<sup id="cite_ref-Scout_4-1" class="reference"><span>[</span>5<span>]</span> Under Setencich, Tech ranked seventh in pass defense, ninth in total defense, and tenth in scoring defense in Big 12 Conference play. In nine games with McNeill, Tech improved to first in pass and total defense and fourth in scoring defense.<sup id="cite_ref-8" class="reference"><span>[</span>9<span>]</span> The Red Raiders forced more punts and allowed fewer rushing and passing yards than they did to begin the season.<sup id="cite_ref-Full_time_9-0" class="reference"><span>[</span>10<span>]</span> These vast improvements in the defense led Leach to drop the interim tag and make McNeill the full-time defensive coordinator.<sup id="cite_ref-Full_time_9-1" class="reference"><span>[</span>10<span>]</span>
Seriously? He was coaching in a league that probably had more offensive firepower than other over the last 2-3 years. I'm not saying he is the best man for the job, but still, until this year when some of the offenses weren't as potent, it'd be tough to put up incredible defense stats in the Big 12.