This is my first post to any forum or chat room or whatever so it's going to be long. Sorry.
I don't know what you all consider a "source",but I believe that the proverbial "smokescreen" is an accurate theory based on a phone conversation with a brother-in-law to a former Vols HC(married to the coach's sister. Not named Kiffin or Dooly!
This man was salesman for a company where i was employed for 6 years. I built a good relationship with him, even to the point of him offering to pay for a college education if i would go back to finish. I say that only show a level of trust and familiarity with one another. Here's how the conversation went after 15 minutes of asking about he and his wife's health and so on.
Me: So what are we to do with our Mighty Vols? We're sinking here.
Him: We have to get a man that will bring top talent. We're losing in state players to our main rivals.
-another line or two concerning talent between us.
Me: What in the world are going to do for a coach?
Him: Well it ain't going to a good one but we'll hear no later than next Mon. Hart is in NY right now at the conference but should be end of this week or next Mon.
Me: I don't see good talent coming without a good one. It is shame we let Gruden fall through like we did.
Him: Uh...yeah...i....i hate to...i can't...I would hate for you to quote me.
Me: Oh....ok.
Him: Buddy boy it was great hearing from you got to go.
That being said I'll tell you this man is never at a loss for words. Unless he's frustrated or nervous or mad. I believe i caught him of guard and he bottled. The call was over less than a minute after the question.
My opinion is that if he knew anything about a coach(not a good one) he would have elaborated if there were no swirling controversy. Furthermore, if the Gruden deal fell through cleanly he would have confirmed whatever story was put out there!
as i said this man is a brother-in-law to former Vols HC and he played football there circa 1970. He knows. SMOKESCREEN!!!!
GRUDEN OR BUST BABY
ROCKY TOP!