I am not sure I buy the idea he would retire after winning the North. I completely understand that he likely already has an exit plan in place, but that it would also include a very smooth and well planned transition this time.
Patterson at any time is a great transition. So, if he is on board, I guess it could occur at any time.
**Also, at some point, Patterson will want to step up to a BCS conference so that he does not get the shaft by the system every year.