From what I remember of that search, it was all Leavitt's to decide, with the fans other choice, Venables, given no consideration. At that time, I believe Patterson was considered the #3 choice to most fans, as I recall. Leavitt then snubbed us despite, no doubt, excessive pleading from all on the KSU team (Wefald and Weiser). Apparently Venables was never in the mix for some rumors (I still don't know the nature of the rumors so someone please advise!). I would guess Venables suffers from something he did to major boosters which, apparently, will keep him from getting a sniff again this time.
So, after the Leavitt snub, the KSU team unexpectedly took a quick jaunt to Virginia on the way back to Manhattan after the Leavitt snub, became enamored and we had our man with the plan! The fans never even got a sniff of that one because Prince came from so far out in left field that is might as well have been Rusty they chose. Patterson was left out in the cold, as were several others with KSU ties that probably should've at least gotten an interview.
Since that time, Leavitt seems even more entrenched at USF and Patterson has continued to improve his resume and show himself to be a quality coach. So, he is the choice of fans now...and of course, we all fear the unknown based on what transpired last time.