I agree with the likeability, or lack thereof. A big part of it boils down to one word: Loyalty. Nobody on this board is a "bandwagon" fan, we're lifers with years of support, through thick and thin (LOTS of 'thin' in this century). Players largely have abandoned any loyalty to the school or fans. They're professional athletes. So, yes, in large part we ARE cheering for laundry.
The coach is the one constant in the program. IMO, it's more important than ever to connect with the fans. Heck, I've enjoyed some opposing coaches in the past more than our current and two previous ones.