Just speculating, but if Locks goes to Maryland, I would suspect that Saban makes another play for Freeze. He wanted him last year, but was basically told no by the SEC because of the "no-cause" or whatever it's called by the NCAA.
Over the years we have a good snap shot of Saban and his "hires"......ie Kiffen. I think Saban recognizes folks good at their job and if he can have them on his side, he will hire them.
Spurrier tried to hire Brother Oliver several times because of the same respect and mutual admiration.