he was bailing and didnt care at that point b/c he was mentally and physically out of it. it's like when you've had your limit in a job position, been applying for others for a while and finally get one, you dont give a crap who the guy is behind you. you're just happy to move on. you do your little mostly ceremonial hand off and say "good luck" then peace out and never look back.
think about what he did at the college ranks since. first season undefeated and would have played for the natty if it wasnt for tressel getting them banned from post season, 2nd year close to the same, won the 1st playoff championship with a dang 3rd string at qb, beating bama in the process.
his nfl record was awful but this isnt the nfl. the dude knows what it takes to win, and knows talent when he sees it. he also demands excellence. he'd be a fantastic AD.