Wisconsin great Barry Alvarez reacts to Chris McIntosh's departure

Wisconsin legend Barry Alvarez is the latest Badger to give his thoughts on athletic director Chris McIntosh leaving the department for a position in the Big Ten office.

Alvarez, the longtime Wisconsin football head coach and athletic director, appeared on ESPN Milwaukee's Wilde and Tausch on Wednesday morning. He began with a surprising note, explaining that he heard about the news along with the rest of the Badgers' fanbase.

"I found out when the rest of the public found it out," Alvarez began. "[McIntosh] called me later that day, after it had been announced."

Of note, the explanation followed Wisconsin great Frank Kaminsky's recent comments on his displeasure with the department 'distancing itself' from Alvarez. That subtext adds context to Alvarez's proximity to McIntosh's decision. Still, looking forward, the Wisconsin legend is as qualified as anyone to give his outlook on McIntosh's move and Wisconsin's upcoming hiring process.

"I was surprised [by the news], like everyone else. Why wouldn't you be surprised? Who would anticipate that move?" Alvarez continued. "My thoughts: we just move forward, that's all. It's a great job. It's a job that a number of highly-qualified people would want. And I'm sure the candidate list will be plentiful. Go out there and find the best guy."

The Wisconsin great further explained why McIntosh would have left the position.

"I don't know [why he wanted to leave]," Alvarez explained. "That's a good question. Only he can answer that. Are you not happy? Are you concerned? What does the league bring? What advantage is it that working for the Big Ten brings? Those are all questions that you have to answer...I don't know, those are only things he can answer. But that's his business."

The next thought is Wisconsin's path forward. It's safe to say that Alvarez's focus is on the future, as he's confident that Wisconsin has the prestige and infrastructure to excel in the modern age of college athletics.