I am not sure if its the fact that the players love him because he's easy on them or whatever reason. I think the fact that his future is unknown causes those types of comments. If he could be coming back next year you don't, as someone wanting to make sure you still have a paycheck, want to throw him under the bus.
Schopp actually made a good point on the post game. Interviewing players about coaching decisions is just a waste of time and oxygen.