Why?
The bowl game and practices are here.
We failed to retain TRob and whiffed on Kelly.
Perception nationwide is that Malzahn is a lame duck much like Sumlin.
Garner and Thompson (as was TRob) are ace recruiters and retaining the current commits is all important.
Just let Thompson audition against a potent offense, maybe the players he has recruited and coached up respond. This saves crazy guaranteed contract talk, gives us some insight as to his ability, limits hurt feelings thus preserving much needed talent with or without Malzahn.
Nothing against Kelly but they clean up on talent at FSU.
Best case scenario is we perform well enough in the bowl game to win, keep the class intact and go big name hunting after signing period in February if Thompson ain't the answer.
We can only hope Malzahn will fix this offense. Our defense, even with Muschamp was mostly good enough (except v. LSU) to win had the offense (QB play/play calling) been as expected.
Just my take.