I have had a thought for about the last 6 months that everyone thinks is insane and even I think it is a bit crazy but I think could happen, especially now with Corona.
Stoops retired to be present during his son's high school season. Once that ran its course he joined the XFL this year and now that is done. Kirk was much more melancholy this past season. I think most agree that handing it over to Brian is inevitable but he is not ready yet.
I think there has been a plan in place for Kirk to retire after spring ball, citing health or family or something else. A bad time to go on a coaching search which would lead to an interim Brian as head coach .... unless there is someone with a big name that is out of work. Enter Bob Stoops.
Stoops would be welcomed in with open arms by the Hawkeye faithful and could be brought in to "train" Brian for several years and then if Stoops endorses Brian for the head coach job everyone is much happier than Brian just being given the job because he is Kirk's kid.
This would let Stoops retire as a Hawkeye, something I think is important to him, gets us the coach everyone wanted 20+ years ago and bridges the gap between Kirk and Brian while at the same time giving Brian time and credibility.
I think this has been in the works for a long time, the virus gives an even more plausible reason for Kirk to hang it up.
Thoughts? I know most will tell me I am insane but I have just had this gut feeling.