Someone put it very well in a post not too long ago that if you want to see the bad things that are going to happen look to what the fat rats are doing. Not sure if the "fat" was directed to anyone who is fat or if they just meant higher up. But, either way in this case; Steve Briner left in October to go to Southern. Usually guys don't take downgrades unless they have to or want to get out before they take all the blame. I imagine he knew this was coming and wanted to save himself. Often the Captain is the first off the ship and doesn't bother to tell everyone else it is sinking. This might be the case.