re: Does Lovie Smith at Illinois = Jon gruden at Tennessee ?

No. I think Tennessee fans believe their program is better than what it actually is, but the University of Illinois is fricked beyond athletics. The Chambana area and more specifically, the University itself has had quite a few issues in the national spotlight the last few years that has honestly hurt them. Also the state is not a talent rich producing state. Most talent is either from Chicago area or Stl suburbs.

Lovie was a big name hire after Beckman (iirc) to cover the hazing and issues within the athletic department. Gruden however is the type of guy if he does accept a college position, he would be all in and probably have quite a few big names on his staff. With the budget issues in Illinois it blows my mind that Lovie was given that type of money.