...clearly Mad Dog was better, actually much better (that doesn't necessarily mean he's a better coach) as a college player and professional player.

They've both been college coaches. They've both been D-League coaches. They've both been NBA coaches.

Madsen's edge are that he had a better playing career (recruits might care about that?) and that he's played for better coaches, and hopefully learned from better coaches. He's coached big guys, and heaven knows we need somewhere to help there. He'd probably have more connections to hire better assistant coaches.

Alex's edge are that the Jazz are better than the Lakers. If you want international players, Alex might (this is a total guess) have connections outside the USA that could help point international recruits to BYU.

Aside from that, I'd think Mad Dog is the better candidate. Plus he's not a Ute.