I know the whole discussion of a "destination" job was brought up earlier in this thread, but here's another thing to consider. Does anyone know what Groce's dream job is? I would have to think that at or near the top of the list is succeeding Matta at OSU. There's a definite possibility that the OSU job opens up within the next 3-5 years considering Matta's disability. That's just enough time for Groce to bring back Illinois and position himself as the #1 candidate for that job should it become available. A couple years of Big10 success is the easiest way for him to get that job. I'm sure that thought likely crept through his mind at some point.
Just my opinion... but Ohio State might not be his dream job. He was only there for 4-5 years and he is from Indiana, so maybe Indiana is more of a 'dream' job than Ohio State.
But he is a Matta guy, and with how the Matta tree seems to hate playing each other would it stand to reason they might not want to follow his footsteps? Even if it was Matta's choice?
But for him to get an elite job, he would have to take a step up and prove himself and Illinois is a job that can do that (ie Self to Kansas)