We are often on the same page, but in this case there is ZERO percent that I agree with in your post / predictions.
Wildhack will absolutely, unequivocally conduct a national search, and do FULL due dilligence. How do I know? Because JB has already approached him about setting up another coach-in-waiting arrangement, and was politely declined. That strongly suggests that the AD is not focused in house, and is not going to tie his own hands with a limited candidate pool.
Hopkins may or may not be on a short list. I personally expect that he would be, and who knows whether he'd opt into the interview process or not. Autry might also be on the list. If you are comparing Autry's resume to external candidates, then I'd expect him to fall short by way of experience / track record.
I can't emphasize this enough -- this is not Daryl Gross -- this AD knows what he is doing, and isn't going to "settle" or make a choice influenced by BS considerations that have nothing to do with setting the program up for long term success. Wildhack is a former executive, he understands the importance of making executive hires, and he isn't going to handcuff the program just to maintain continuity -- he's going to hire the best candidate he can line up.
