I don't think money has as large an impact as you noted. I think we'd hit the ceiling with Beamer. His last few years, the program became stagnant. We struggled to break .500. I don't think offensive players felt inspired to come play here. Bud has always had a great defense, but I think defensive recruits want to play for a good defense AND win games.

With Fuente, our offense is finally building an identity. Getting back to 10 win seasons, back on prime time tv, and competing well in bowls will do wonders for recruiting. I think Fuente is getting the pieces in play now that will pay dividends on the recruiting trail in the next couple years.