That's fine if you're just focusing on results. But to get the results you want, you have to create a process to get you those results. For MSU, the process has always been to concentrate on Mississippi, then take the leftovers from surrounding states or wherever your coach has an 'in'. Then of course JUCO, and now the portal (which takes into account another strategy in and of itself). For example, Jackie had someone on staff who had a ton of success in ATL and SW GA. Mullen concentrated on the Bama/Auburn/LSU leftovers in AL and LA. Leach had ties in Texas.
It seems Arnett is back to the Mullen model, which I like. You'd think Memphis would always be in that model but for whatever reason, we just haven't had much success there. Leftovers, sure, we get our share, like anywhere else. But Memphis shouldn't warrant any more effort than Birmingham, New Orleans or Mobile (and all rural areas in between).
The MS kids have ties at MSU, and that maximizes our chance of landing them. Simply put, this strategy gives us the best chance to sign the most talent. Period. There's no arguing this if you know anything about the history of MSU football. As I'm posing this
@the dog is on the loose posts about Ole Miss....well, they are Ole Miss. They have a different football culture than us.