I don't know about all the other elements of the situation but I absolutely believe this is a hang-up that has to be overcome. Anyone can come to Tennessee and see the program's presence, history, and significance. The problem now is that almost all of that prominence is a decade in the rear view mirror. BUT. You either believe what you've built is strong enough to draw as its own brand, and believe that it is at least somewhat due to the fan awareness, the attendance, and the national image, or ... or you don't. And if you don't, then what's the point? You'll always make decisions chained to the past.