Like in the 30's. Results are a completely different thing. Look at Cal. Very strong recruiting classes that underperform.
You may say the same for DE but he has persuaded some really good talent to play for him.
I also think that people thing of the Oregon State wins and the Miami National Championships (plural. Wasn't it 2 in three or four years?). Must have had some good players. Did he get all of them? Probably not.
I personally don't think he will be at Utah long enough to impact recruiting, regardless.