As for DC, I like John Chavis. But I really think Chizik should model himself after Saban. Saban is truly the CEO of his program (heck he has even been on the cover of Forbes) and he typically hires a top young guy to be his DC. But make no mistake, Saban is very hands-on with the teaching and coaching on the defensive side of the ball (specifically with the DBs).
Totally agree about Saban. You know as well as I do even though Kevin Steele is the "defensive coordinator" that Saban does most of the work for that defense. Steele is basically there to tie up loose ends and recruit IMO. I'd love to see Gene take this model and from the sounds of things that's a possibility.