The only thing that complicates things is vetting said coach to a level you feel comfortable as an AD.
steps:
1) did the coach step into a bad situation and turn things around quickly (2-3 years)?
2) does the program that said coach inherited have inherent disadvantages?
3) can he develop talent or recruit?
hire a guy that hits all these marks, you have a winner at MSU that you have to worry about losing in 4-5 years. If you lose that coach, no biggie, just repeat the above and things will be fine
steps:
1) did the coach step into a bad situation and turn things around quickly (2-3 years)?
2) does the program that said coach inherited have inherent disadvantages?
3) can he develop talent or recruit?
hire a guy that hits all these marks, you have a winner at MSU that you have to worry about losing in 4-5 years. If you lose that coach, no biggie, just repeat the above and things will be fine