Its that time of year where we just can’t help but be interested in the coaching developments happening all across the country. (See our entry from last week)
In addition to the big names that are already on the move (or presumed to be ) at Michigan, Arkansas, Nebraska and Texas A&M…SFN is hearing elevated rumors about Chan Gainley at Georgia Tech and even a potential retirement that could be in the works down in Tallahassee. Additionally, Phil Fulmer and Tommy Bowden probably have delayed their potential ‘executions’ (with all due respect to Nick Saban) for another year.
Then you have interesting names like Tommy Tuberville whose names get thrown out there as candidates.
In the middle of the discussions and speculation that is swirling today, we were particularly interested in Ivan Maisel’s comments in this article
Among other names that will be discussed (for the Michigan job) amongst the public is Wake Forest head coach Jim Grobe, a Midwesterner who believes in physical football. Grobe’s teams are known for playing hard for 60 minutes, and he is greatly respected by his peers.
Grobe, however, is not a “Michigan Man.” Asked whether the next coach should have that quality, Carr said, “Well, you remember a guy named Schembechler? He wasn’t a Michigan Man. Fritz Crisler wasn’t a Michigan Man. Fielding Yost wasn’t a Michigan Man. I know this: Bill wants to hire the finest coach in the country.”
As you watch this year’s developments, we suggest that you also pay attention to fan bases who are voicing their concerns but do NOT make a move this year. Remember last year when Arkansas fans were all over Houston Nutt and fans at both Nebraska and Texas A&M were expressing elevated levels of concern? It’s not hard to believe that Notre Dame fans are struggling with the job that Charlie Weiss is doing…but it is difficult to understand South Carolina fans already complaining about the Old Ball Coach!
Quite often the current year’s frustrations turn into the following year’s firings.
A lot of these schools would do well to consider the coaches listed in this very good article that we wanted to link.
(1) Paul Johnson, Navy
(2) Brian Kelly, Cincy
(3) Chris Hatcher, Georgia Southern
(4) Bobby Hauck, Montana
(5) Skip Holtz, ECU
