But that was a REALLY REALLY bad game for Steele. On top of that Venables was about to be forced out at Oklahoma in favor of Bob Stoops' brother. Clemson had the money, the will, and a demonstrated need for a DC (even if they had a pretty good one). Stoops wanted to ensure his brother could take over the defense. Clemson paying a lot of money gave Stoops and Venables cover and demonstrated a commitment beyond what they had before.

Steele moved on to Auburn IIRC where he did a fairly good job. Again, Steele is one of the better DCs out there. But he's no Brent Venables.