OregonBuckeye,
Yes, I agree that Coach D laid some great groundwork at UC, bringing in good, hard nosed players with great work ethic. But the talent level at UC in 2007 was still below the Big East elite. Kelly's coaching gave the 'Cats a real chance to win every game. UC posted it's first 10 win season since 1951. Living in Cincy for ten years now, it's obvious the impact Kelly has had on the program and the city. Dantonio got the ball rolling with solid seasons and a huge win over Rutgers in 2006. When he left for MSU, most people expected a slide back to mediocrity. As soon as Coach Kelly came to town, he made it his mission to create excitement for the team; literally walking around campus and talking to anyone he ran into. He has great character, and runs a respectable program. Don't get me wrong, I do think Dantonio is a better X's and O's guy. I'd even support the idea of paying him as much as Tressel to come back to OSU as DC. 2002 = Best Defense Ever! My point was that Kelly's personality might give him a slight edge in recruiting and PR. I'd still take Coach D any day of the week (twice on Saturdays!).