Years of speculation about Kliff Kingsbury’s job security took a toll on the last two recruiting classes of his tenure. Most notably was the 2018 class, which was ranked just 72nd in the nation and last in the Big 12.
Recruits were understandably hesitant to play for a coach that they did not know was going to remain in place for the next year, much less the next four. That’s where the dragging of his feet by Kirby Hocutt, who was hesitant to act on the Kingsbury decision truly cost this program.
But if the 2020 season is going to be a step forward under Matt Wells, the 2018 class is going to have to step up in a big way.