I know I should just ignore this thread and move to the new one, but we've got to stop pretending this is a massive surprise. I certainly hoped Mel would stay, and there was a decent chance, but let's not forget that 6 years ago, it took some convincing to get him to interview in the first place. I wouldn't be surprised (although I have not basis for this) if Mel flat out told Tech during the interview that if the Michigan job came calling after 5 years he would strongly consider going back. And if that's the case, I also wouldn't be surprised if Tech looked at that and decided 5 high quality years was the best step in the right direction. This is a business. Yeah, we have to put up with Michigan fans using this as another point to prove how much better their program is, but if it wasn't this, they'd cite something else. Let them chirp.
To those who are feeling totally betrayed, don't begrudge a person from charting their career path, especially when the signs were there from the beginning. When you beg a candidate to interview, you also give up some leverage both in compensation terms as well as commitment long term. There's a reason the contract had a buyout, and maybe even consider giving some credit to Mel and Suzanne for making sure that when he was ready to leave, Tech got a little of that Michigan cash in the process. To those who want to erect a statue of Mel out front of the building, put your shovels away. It was just 6 years and he did what he was paid to do.