I don’t think he makes it. But let’s play devil’s advocate for a bit. Could this have been the thought process?
Contact tracing in K town is ridiculous. Seen my son quarantined twice now and never a symptom but for second time basketball shut down and kids missing practices and games and not even sick.
With this in mind and depth issues, staff knew they needed as many players as possible. Also knew a lot of young talent which 2 year players are HIS guys. I know when he first got here, he left players and parents who were holdovers to be with HIS guys and their parents and guys he was recruiting. It caused friction.
So, if he starts playing younger more talented guys then the 4 and 5 year guys check out early in the year and you are canceling games. Then you refund more money ect.
I do not know this but would be a reasonable reason why older guys playing in front of older guys. Also, our AD always played upper classmen as well.
Otherwise, makes no sense to not play younger guys earlier. Key showed how to defend a slant. IMO, they must beat Texas A&M to keep him and change my mind. Even then, just like next Saturday, I want to see it on the field. Not seen it in year 3. Lose big next Saturday, get rid of him. That’s the measuring stick for me.