specifically concerning Dooley. Do you really think Dooley is at the top of Byrne's list? Of course not.
If we end up with Dooley, it will be because we didn't land the big names that have been discussed here. If we don't end up with Dooley, I firmly believe that another BCS school will within the next 3 years. That fact that so many people on here have predetermined that they will hate a Dooley hire is disturbing. I am not one of those that believes that this is our lot in life and we just can't compete in the coaching market, however, if we can't land the Kellys, Petersens, Pattersons, etc., I am fine with Dooley.
Basically, there are about 3-4 names that would be considered a "splash" by the prevailing standards here. In all likelihood, we may not get those coaches. Beyond that, you can play it safe and hire a retread OR hire a young coach before he hits the limelight. I am for the young coach.
Basically, it looks like this:
Petersen
Kelly
Patterson
Riley ?
Kevin Wilson
Derek Dooley
If you go down that list and offer each person and you end up with Dooley, so be it.