I don't think that any DC in the country is elite. There aren't a handful that have completely separated themselves from everyone else like there has been in the head coaching realm. That said, I loved having Chavis as a DC. I knew as long as he was coaching that the defense was in good hands. I also believe that the next guy that comes to LSU can potentially be the same calibur or better. Chavis is a strong DC, but his system has weaknesses, which have been mentioned in this thread so far. aTm is getting a great coach and person and should be happy with the hire.

As far as why he left, I think it started early in the year when LSU only offered him a one year extension to coach through 2015 at the same salary. I think that offer was a slap in the face to Chavis and started the ball rolling. Then as we get to the 11th hour and aTm has now offered, LSU offers him less money for less years and will only guarantee it up to 6 months after Les leaves, if he does. Again another slap in the face. At the end of the day, I think our AD made choices that made Chief feel he wasn't appreciated and that's why he left. It had a lot more to do with what LSU didn't do than what aTm did do.