Getting them into the PAC12, KW will always be a somewhat beloved figure in Ute history. Even if they end up firing him because he couldn't win in the PAC, most Ute fans will always love him.
Despite his terrible teams lately most Utes love him today because of the above-listed reasons. They just think someone else might be needed to take them to the next level.
Turning him back into a Cougar would absolutely be a punch in the gut to them. Especially if he led BYU to future victories over them - which he inevitably would.