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[QUOTE="JazzNC, post: 2235060, member: 6034"]
I'm truly shocked by the number of people who identify the sanctions as the biggest reason for our recruiting woes.   In my opinion the single biggest problem with recruiting lies NOT with the sanctions, but with JB's age.

1.  The sanctions are time limited and did not prevent us from being finalists for several top recruits.  When the sanctions were  given most said we'll be fine we only play 6-7 guys anyway.  Now that that didn't turn out as planned the sanctions have crippled us?  I don't think so.  We lost those elite recruits because of JB's age, negative recruiting, and perceived loss of stability.  A 74-79 year coach doesn't provide that.

2.  The zone is a deterrent but it's never prevented us from recruiting in the past.  That is not a new factor.

3.  Hop leaving is the second biggest reason. It's a new development, it creates uncertainty, and he was our best most feared recruiter.  He was well liked and connected with recruits and coaches.

4.  JB is arguably in the running for one of the BEST all time coaches.  But his age is scaring people away.  With the average male lifespan being 84, JB will be nearly 80 when his contract is up.  Kids want to know who they are playing for.  Unlike the sanctions, this is not a time limited problem.  It isn't going away.  In fact each year it gets worse.

It is my opinion that if the sanctions ended today, we'd be in the same precarious recruiting situation.  I don't want JB out as someone suggested I implied.  I'd love nothing more than for him to keep on going, largely because he built this program.

Sadly, I view JB the way I view many pro athletes as they age.  Many play too long because it's in their blood, and they love the sport.  JB is no different.  He"s winding down his career.

I'd love for him to exit on top.  He had that chance two years ago.  Now I'm afraid he goes out limping... and that's not how I want him to be remembered.
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