Well, we've always been a step ahead of the other Louisiana schools: more vision, all across campus. What has held us back was working in a state which doesn't value education; and several administrations which came out of the tradition that "good athletics means bad academics" (which is true at least some places).
And I have always believed that our biggest asset was our people & culture: the friendliness, the focus on family & kids. That's certainly what Billy talked about.
Add to that, add the football talent Louisiana produces; a really good coach; an admin willing to commit the bucks; and State & LTU in disarray, increasing our recruiting options... it all worked out.