1) Unlikely to find a better DC than Foster. There's real synergy on this staff, which is rare even at top programs.

2) Has one of the easiest paths to the playoffs in the Power 5. No reason to think VT couldn't become the dominant program in the Coastal, and from there, you're one game away from being in strong contention for a spot.

3) Expectations and pressure are lower here relative to higher-paying options.

4) Works for one of the better ADs in Babcock, and also probably feels some sense of loyalty given Whit gave him his first big P5 break.

5) Seems to have legitimate character, given how smooth the transition has gone and how much respect he's shown to Beamer and existing traditions. His dedication, professionalism and on-the-field demeanor are also all top notch.

6) Despite financial limitations, I believe VT will gradually raise his salary to be more competitive.

For those reasons, I'd be most worried about a small handful of opportunities that could offer a better combination of a) significantly higher compensation, b) fit (e.g. possibly closer to family), and c) a more achievable path to a national championship. None of the current openings even remotely bother me.

Looking down the road, I'll be more concerned if he eventually plateaus with the VT program and potentially starts to believe that he can't elevate the program to the point that he can achieve his professional goals. This might be a result of not being able to improve recruiting sufficiently, losing key assistants to better financed programs or Foster getting closer to retirement.

[Post edited by HokieJMR at 10/30/2017 5:02PM]