These are just my opinions but here is how I think this went down.
1. Just like every AD, McGarity has a list of 4-5 names every day that is fluid.
2. After the UT loss I think he spoke to the AD's "agent" to see if any of those names would be "interested" if something ever happened.
3. After the UF debacle, the phone call was made to line them up and ask about specifics in salary, staff, etc.
4. By the time we get to the firing, it's already taken it's due diligence. I don't like McGarity, but the man isn't stupid. He already knew the 4-5 "hot names" and what their interest in a UGA opening was.
Right hire or wrong hire, due diligence was done, IMHO.
At least from the initial buzz with potential recruits and media, it was the right hire. UGA will be the sizzle topic in college football the night of the UNC vs UGA game.