Hello and Grude Morning (on the West Coast):
I'm slammed at work, but took a minute to skim the morning news. I had a thought regarding the scenario, and wanted to share. As always, this is complete speculation.
With regards to the timing, I think it is very possible that Butch could be announced as being done at the end of the season, essentially at any time.
He would, practically speaking, serve the role of interim (or lame duck) coach. This is a bit unusual, but not totally unreasonable. Making a statement to the effect of, "We've decided to go a different way for next season. Out of respect for Coach Jones, and the tremendous job he's done here, we've asked him to stay on throughout the regular season. We feel that it is the most respectful course of action...."
I'm not saying this will happen, just that it is possible for it to happen. It would potentially be Pareto efficient for all parties. The AD gets to get out from under the cloak of secrecy (and save face. Butch gets to finish with his guys, without the uncertainty looming over him. The fans can sleep at night (and not hit F5 here so often). The assistant coaches don't have to worry about the power struggle. JG can get the boost in recruiting from his brand power. Etc.
