So the jobs period just started in Tark.  I just finished my 5th season at Norfolk St.  The last 2 were 1st and then 2nd rd of the PIT.  I didn't think I'd be eligible for anything really good yet, but i was surprised than I'm not "qualified" for anything.  I am either "step backwards", "keep looking" or "not qualified" for all jobs.

Now I'm clear on what step backwards and not qualified mean, but keep looking confuses me.  I used to think that it was the same as longshot, but the assistant coach messages are very different.  They all seem to say the school is lateral, won't gain me anything, my loyalty will be questioned, etc.  But he also says you probably won't get it anyway.  Whereas longshot messages always made it clear you probably we're not ready for the job, it was above you.

Is keep looking somewhere in between longshot and qualified?  Am I more likely to get a keep looking job than I would be a longshot?  If I apply and don't get it, will I get a loyalty hit?

I ask because I'm considering applying for Utah.  I like my team, but recruiting in ACC/Big East country ain't easy.  I don't mind not getting it if I apply, I just don't want to be penalized for applying in the 1st place.  Would appreciate any ideas.

Not sure but since no one else has volunteered... I believe keep looking is just another way of saying "go away". No shot. We would laugh in your face if you actually made it past the secretary. 

Now that you have an answer (even if wrong) maybe somebody who knows for sure can help!

I'm almost positive that you'll never get a loyalty hit for just applying somewhere.