Look at it in this perspective:
When you've looked at another job in your lifetime, or perhaps offered one to someone, the main gist of that conversation is to sell the person on the company/position. Correct?
Now, weigh this...
When Muschamp was hired and had his presser what were the gist of his comments? UT being on the same page, same goals, same ideals, same...
NOW, when Applewhite holds his presser what was the gist of his comments?
IF you have read the link, just read what Muschamp's were and you'll know what Applewhite's were. It rings loudly of a "party line" that was offered by Brown and others on his staff when both guys were interviewed and spent some time with the group as a whole.
bearfacts, going back to your first response about "buying into the process."
As an example, lets look at McElroy and the need we had to develop him to the point he could lead and contribute in his role as QB.
Now, contrast that to Applewhite where he clearly needed to be developed to the point he could lead and contribute in the sole role of OC.
Both situations didn't come to fruition this year and both individuals wanted to contribute more, I'm positive. Were they ready? No.
I'm not laying any blame on MA, but he was a member of the process like the entire football team was...