I think the rats are a primary reason it has been sinking. Once no longer weighed down with rats, the ship can right itself, fill up with a more motivated crew and start moving forward again.
I do wish them well, in spite of things. They did not deserve what they got under Butch. Granted, they have their own responsibility in it but much of the fault lies with the former coach and staff in not getting them prepared to play SEC football. Some fault lies with this staff too - but hard to force the horse to drink the water if he is no longer thirsty.