CHAMPAIGN — On the surface, it would seem to be an easy answer. Do you want to continue as Illinois defensive coordinator?

That's the question facing Illinois interim head coach Vic Koenning. But the answer is far from easy.

Koenning has to consider the fate of the other three coaches on the defensive staff. Keith Gilmore, Ron West and Mike Gillhamer have combined with Koenning to produce the nation's No. 7 defense.

"You all know me," Koenning said. "I'm only as good as the staff. The success we had this year was because of us, the defensive staff and the players.

"Those guys deserve options and they deserve to stay if they want to, but that's not my call."

Sources close to the program have said none of the remaining offensive coaches will return. Former offensive coordinator Paul Petrino left to return to Arkansas last week. Quarterbacks coach Jeff Brohm, running backs coach DeAndre Smith, line coach Joe Gilbert and tight ends/fullbacks coach Chip Long will remain with the team through the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl.

Just two of the four, Smith and Gilbert, have guaranteed money from Illinois for the 2012 season.

New Illinois coach Tim Beckman originally offered Koenning a chance to be co-defensive coordinator. Later, he changed the offer to defensive coordinator.

"He said he'd like for me to stay," Koenning said after Tuesday's practice. "I don't want to get into all the details, but there were provisions and parameters.

"There's a lot of things to consider. He asked me if I can make the decision by Wednesday."

Koenning said he has other offers. He mentioned openings at Auburn and Troy.

"Not as many as I'd hoped, but enough," Koenning said. "It only takes one. It's like finding a woman that you want to spend the rest of your life with, it only takes one. Usually."

Since Ron Zook was replaced by Beckman, fans have been adamant about keeping Koenning in place.

"I was at Clemson when we set every dadgum record in a four-year period, and I didn't have this kind of support," Koenning said. "I'm just so appreciative and humbled by the fans and people here. It gives a person a lot to think about."

Koenning said he plans to talk to his wife Tracey and family before making a decision.

"Once upon a time I told my wife that she wasn't going to tell me where I was going and that was the worst mistake I ever made," Koenning said. "So we discuss things in great detail now.

"She'd like to be closer to her parents in Orange Beach, Alabama. But I know my kids are very happy here."

Stopping by. Former Illinois coach Zook made a brief appearance at the beginning of Tuesday's practice. He was greeted by coaches and some of the players.

Zook didn't stay for the bulk of the workout.

Staying home. Koenning said there are still a handful of players in danger of not making the trip because of academic issues. He didn't want to name the players.