November 18, 2006
Should Tide send Shula packing?
Noted Georiga blogger paulwesterdawg thinks Alabama would be a lot better off without Head Coach Mike Shula. I know what you're thinking: Why would a Georgia blogger have a dog in this fight? Well, as PWD explains, Georgia and Alabama generally share common enemies, in other words - an enemy of my enemy is my friend.
I grew up a Bama fan. I want the Tide to do well. Plus, they hate everyone that Georgia hates. Success in the SEC is a zero sum game. There's only so many wins to go around. Their losses and Shula's ineptitude strengthen the programs of Tennessee and Auburn. Strong AU and UT teams cause UGA more problems.Shula is making their lives very easy. I don't call for UGA coaches to be fired, but I've got no deep emotional ties to Bama anymore. I can stand back and say, "Hey, this guy stinks. Why should they keep him?" And I don't feel bad about asking that.
So, what has Shula really accomplished? He beat Florida 31-0 last year, and he beat Texas Tech. Otherwise, he beat the worst Tennessee team in 25 years. Is that all he really has to show for his tenure?
Perhaps the most damning stat from a Crimson Tide perspective is Shula's (now) 0-5 record against Auburn. Five straight Iron Bowl losses does little to endear you to the 'Bama faithful.
ESPN further fisks the Shula record at Alabama:
2-17 vs. AU, ARK, LSU, UT, UF and UGA
3-16 vs. SEC teams with winning records
4-14 vs. Ranked teams
8-20 vs. All Teams with Winning Records
18-2 vs. Teams with losing records
0-19 when trailing in the fourth quarter
And those numbers are BEFORE tonight's Auburn loss, so bump it up as follows:
2-18 vs. AU, ARK, LSU, UT, UF and UGA
3-17 vs. SEC teams with winning records
4-15 vs. Ranked teams
8-21 vs. All Teams with Winning Records
18-2 vs. Teams with losing records
0-20 when trailing in the fourth quarter
PWD takes the analysis one step further:
Why would you keep a guy like that? Is he ever going to be able to manage a game successfully? Are Bama fans forever doomed to watch Shula bumble decisions like whether or not to kick a field goal on 4th and 15 with 5 minutes left and two timeouts. Or whether or not to go for two down 14-9 in the first half.Can Bama Do Better Than Mike Shula?
Based on the stats above....how can they not? This year Bama is 6-6 against possibly the easiest schedule in the university's history. What is their signature win this year? Hawai'i? Sadly, yes.
Shula has a $3M buyout clause in his contract. That's a lot of coin, but Alabama can easily afford it. The real question needs to be... what's the cost of keeping Shula?
Comments:
Tom Blogical said:
posted on November 18, 2006 11:15 PM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse?
The only Shula that could coach in that family is Daddy Don. The rest of the Shulas are just riding his coattails. The Iron Bowl record is reason enough. If I were a 'Bama fan, I'd be saying, bye-bye Mike.
GatorMatt said:
posted on November 18, 2006 11:58 PM — 65.213.191.153 — link — abuse?
Granted, I don't follow Alabama football too much, just the week or so before they play Florida. The one thing I do know, is that he lost Brody Croyle and Tyrone Prothro (p.s., is he done for good? I heard he had some infection.), and therefore his team can't seem to win a solid game. If the statistics that I saw above are correct, I think it may be time for a regime change. The SEC is a better conference than that, and Alabama needs to step up and provide competition
volstrike3 said:
posted on November 19, 2006 1:02 AM — 75.20.190.14 — link — abuse?
Who are they going to get. What coach is going to want to step into that situation? I think Bama fans need to learn to temper their expectations. There are peaks and valley's and they are in a valley. Nobody stays on top of the sec for more than 3 years or so. They should probably give him another season to turn it around because there is not a better option out there.
BamaBob said:
posted on November 19, 2006 8:48 AM — 68.1.112.118 — link — abuse?
If this were happening at Tenn. the other coaches would have already assinated him while he slept.. or was in the hospital...to move into his position.
We WILL give him the extra year he diserves and say, like years and years of Fla fans that I know, "wait until next year" lol.CrimsonTider said:
posted on November 19, 2006 11:04 AM — 68.63.28.11 — link — abuse?
Give him one year, a year that he stepped into a mess and had nothing to work with (we didn't expect anything). Give him another year, with scholarships slowly pouring into the program (we didn't expect too much here, either). First full year of scholarships and whatnot, he leads Alabama to a nice 10-2 mark. I was happy, and everyone else I know that is a hardcore Bama fan was happy, it was a good year! But, if you look at the wins... the only true convincing win was against Florida, and that was because Alabama's defense owned that game through and through. Mikey still found a way to give the game up to LSU in the fourth quarter+OT and Auburn in the very first quarter of play. This year was just sad, losing to Mississippi State at home with their mounting injuries and probation was insulting. He blamed the players in the press conference--what kind of head coach is that? I guess Mikey's coaching prowess can be summed up into a few very simple points:
1) Running Kenneth Darby up the middle (a power running play) with a weakened OL, and knowing Darby still can't cut as well after last year's injury.
2) Keep Chris Capps in! He's proven that he fails on every play (just about). A true example of this is the Auburn game, where good ole' boy let AU through twice to J.P. Wilson, causing two fumbles and inevitably two touchdowns.
3) Lets play for a field goal with 5 minutes left in the game against the best rushing team in the SEC (Arkansas). In this game the field goal kicker missed 3 field goals, and 1 EPT (the game loser) which add up to an astonishing 10 points worth in kicks. He had Mikey's faith from miss #1.
4) Keeping the lead into the second half just won't work for Alabama football now (since scores are measured by field goals, and not touchdowns). Alabama still holds one of the NCAA's worst scoring offenses and red zone scoring offenses. Leading the SEC in red zone appearances and not scoring are only the product of 3 runs up the middle by Kenneth Darby and Tim Castille. Won't he consider an out-route? Even a screen on first down... the question of Mike Shula's strategy in-game is the paradigm of humanity.
5) Half-time adjustments. I'm absolutely convinced that Mike Shula feeds the players cookies and sedatives in the locker room to prepare them for the second half. Just look at how the team collapses after every half-time... it's destined to happen.
6) Bad playcalling. Horrible play calling, at that. He's too conservative when he needs to pad leads, and when he needs to be conservative he goes for the touchdown on 4-and-15 with 6 minutes or so left in the game (Auburn, of course.) Kick the field goal, let your D put pressure on Cox and make him throw a few bad passes OR wrap up Kenny in the backfield, make them punt, and let your O take a stab at a victory. Victory is a word to Mike Shula that remains undefined in the SEC this year.
7) He's lost his players. I've watched every Alabama game played since I could recall what I was watching. I was about 10 years old when I really started to figure out what was going on--my family is 50/50 Alabama/Auburn and my folks just happen to be part of that Alabama contingency. I've seen every game since I can remember, and I've never seen players so depressed looking. It's as if they know they're going to lose if the lead is the opposing team's early in the 4th. Why are they so down? Isn't Mike running up and down the sidelines telling them to pep up? Show some morale--they're not going to win, we are! We're going to get out there and make that big stop... we're going to get out there and push this ball into the end-zone and win this at home! He never, ever shows any emotion. He always looks like a deer caught in the headlights of a semi.
8) He never seems to have the answer. After every big loss the team has had to endure, Shula seems to run the same game plan against the higher echelon SEC schools. Though I admit, at LSU I was very pleased that he pulled the tricks out of his hat... but unfortunately Mikey, a lot, way too late. He's never been the one for half-time adjustments. Well, I have news for you Mike. Part of what you do in the locker room at half-time is motivate and MAKE CHANGES. Running the same HB draws and slants aren't working--your static gameplan is an absolute failure.What more is needed? Shula doesn't need another year. If he gets another year, he'll just be writing out the tombstone to a once proud Alabama program... an Alabama program that put up much more of a competitive stance in the SEC west. During the Shula tenure the negatives far outweigh the positives. Also we have to account for the loss of recruiting with each of these marquee losses. So many of the undecided's that claim to be looking at 'Bama for '07-'08 have the other SEC schools on their agenda, mostly being Auburn and Tennessee.
To all the other SEC fans out there: we're the best conference in the country, and I hope to God that you aren't letting Mike Shula ruin this luster of our tradition.
Fire Mikey now, before it's too late... and ROLL TIDE FOREVER!
Lee said:
posted on November 19, 2006 3:04 PM — 72.200.32.113 — link — abuse?
Re: #8 Crimson Tider
You gave a lot of excellent reasons why Shula should be replaced but I have one quesion...you mention that last year they let LSU and Auburn win, are you suggesting that Alabama had the better team, if you are the you need a dose of reality, without doubt both LSU and Auburn have better material than Bama.BigWarEagle said:
posted on November 19, 2006 6:22 PM — 67.34.195.148 — link — abuse?
Personally I wish Alabama would keep him for another 25 years but realistically he should be gone now. The numbers above tell you all you need to know about the job he has done. And anyone that has watched him on the sidelines has seen him stare at his clipboard like a monkey doing a math problem. He has no clue how to coach in the big leagues.
T-Mac said:
posted on November 19, 2006 8:47 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Everybody RELAX. Look at the big picture. When Shula took the reigns at Bama he stepped into a huge pile of horse sh*t. Alabama was just now allotted their full number of scholarships this year. Doe's anyone recall the thing called PROBATION??? Listen, I understand Shula made a few bonehead calls this year, but with the youth on BOTH sides of the ball this season did people expect 12-0? Come on. Be realistic. The Tide are very young. They lost 7 players from the #2 total defense last season and have a first year QB in John Parker. 6-6 is not a tragedy people. Look at the big picture here. The Tide will be loaded the next few years. Absolutely loaded. On both sides of the ball. I've been playin ball the better half of my life. The Head Coach can't get out on the field and play the game too. Getting rid of Coach Shula would be a MAJOR mistake at this point. The young talent at Bama now will only get better and John Parker is a very good QB. With those receivers coming back next season, the O-Line gelling, and that young defense getting better, they will be a very good team. I'm a tailback and the few Bama games I saw I noticed Darby dancing around a lot behind the line of scrimmage instead of hittin that hole like lightning like he did in the 2005 season. That O-Line gave him holes to run through this season, but for whatever reason he wouldn't attack the line. I noticed even if he would get the corner he just didn't run with that DOG IN HIM like in 2005. I'm not putting it on Darby. I just mention these things cause that's what I've always played. Last year when Bama was 10-2 Shula was the best thing since sliced bread. Now, in 2006 they go 6-6 and are calling for his job. They'll wind up 7-6 probably after the bowl game and that's not a tragedy people. WAKE THE FU*K UP. Firing Shula now and you can pencil in a loss to Florida State next season. GIVE HIM A CHANCE PEOPLE. Well, I guess we could always bring in Randy Sanders from Tennessee. They went 5-6 which is a losing record and Fulmer didn't go anywhere. I'm not comparing Fulmer to Shula. I'm just sayin to give the guy some time. Alabama contending for a National Championship in 2008 season is probable with the talent they will have. Bring in a new coach and you are right back at square 1. Get off his back people. ROME WASN'T BUILT IN A DAY!!! T-Mac
Andrew R said:
posted on November 19, 2006 10:13 PM — 151.213.238.133 — link — abuse?
Yeah, give him a chance. He has only had 4 years and he is the only person that Alabama has that has beat Auburn. You can't just throw that kind of talent and experience away. Need to keep him around for at least 5 more years so he can use a fear the thumb tatic as motivation again. War Eagle and thanks for another great year Shula.
T-Mac said:
posted on November 19, 2006 11:37 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Andrew R, I usually would not respond to such a stupid post, but I can't resist. I would be willing to bet that you are a guy that has never even set foot on a football field except for maybe grade school play. If even that. I don't know you. You don't spell very well. I've been a football player for half my life and at least I can spell bro. Tommy Tubberville got the Auburn job with great talent in-hand and great recruits already lined up. Mike Shula did not. You are a typical COUCH POTATO/ARM-CHAIR QUARTERBACK. It's funny. What do you eat during a game? Doritos, Cheetos, or Popcorn??? Probably all of em. You need to learn a little about the game of football before you get on a fanblog and post stupid comments like that bro. GET AT ME DOG.
T-MacGatorpilot said:
posted on November 20, 2006 1:35 AM — 71.42.27.135 — link — abuse?
T-mac, total respect, bro, but this isn't like your days back at your alma mater, playing tailback for Ole Miss... this is Alabama. And Shula has had a chance... 4 years of chances. I don't see him getting better or learning how to manage games. He just isn't getting it done and there is absolutely no sign that he CAN get it done. I think it's time for him to move on (I can say that now that my Gators have beaten Bama for the last time we'll probably play them under Shula, so he might as well go sooner than later at this point.)
volstrike3 said:
posted on November 20, 2006 2:06 AM — 75.20.190.14 — link — abuse?
TMac,
I am with you on this one. Only a few years ago, Auburn fans were trying to get rid of Tuberville. SEC fans in general are much to fickle and they freak out if they don't win every single year. Fulmer turned things around, Tuberville really turned things around, Even Zook is making Urban Meyer look great because of the players her recruited. They should let Shula work through it. Either that or the revolving door at Alabama will continue for another 7 years.
rebel1222 said:
posted on November 20, 2006 6:03 AM — 74.246.157.47 — link — abuse?
I attended the 2006 coaching clinic back in March. IT was obvious during the team practices we attended that he clearly was unsure of himself and without focus. He simply is not a head coach. He needs to be coachig Qb's somewhere. The tide needs to go get the O'le ball coach.
Mooncricket said:
posted on November 20, 2006 10:06 AM — 131.204.57.48 — link — abuse?
Shula has to go. He has done a good job bringing in talent (although he recruits like an idiot) and getting the Alabama program atleast pointed back in the right direction, but that is the best he can do. 10-2 was luck last year, and only the blindest fans can't see that. Some coaches are just stopgaps to help heal wounds, like Ron Zook did at Florida. The next coach at Alabama will take the next step with this program, a step they cannot take with Shula on the sidelines. And that next coach will reap the benefits of Shula's work, but he cannot move that program to the next level.
Andrew R said:
posted on November 20, 2006 10:09 AM — 24.73.180.194 — link — abuse?
T-Mac, I'm glad you chose to respond to my "stupid" typo. Sorry I forgot the "C" in tactic. FYI, "em" is not a word, it is spelled "them". Post #14 Doe's in english is really spelled does. Other words in post #14 that are not real words; playin, hittin, and sayin. "Bro", If you are going to try to make a point about spelling try to spell correctly yourself. Otherwise you will look like a complete idiot.
Half your life playing football? Who do you play for now? In all your years of football, did you take a history class? If you will look back to 1998, the year before Tuberville came to Auburn, you will see that "the Auburn job with great talent in-hand" had a fantastic year with a 3-8 record. Tuberville's first year was an improved 5-6, so as you can see, Tuberville's road wasn't exactly smooth. His first 3 years he was 1-2 against Alabama including a loss at home.
By the way, if you re-read my post, I am supporting your argument. Give Shula some time.
PS, I don't eat popcorn. I don't like the way it gets stuck in my teeth. Love the "GET AT ME DOG", another great example of your grammar skills.
AU03 said:
posted on November 20, 2006 10:42 AM — 205.255.224.10 — link — abuse?
Volstrike,
FTR, in 2003 Auburn FANS weren't trying to get rid of Tuberville (at least not near the rate that Bammers are calling for Shula's head now), it was a few select Trustees and our AD.
Andrew,
Tuberville was actually 1-2 in his first 3 Iron Bowls with BOTH losses at home (They happened to be the two home Iron Bowls I witnessed while in school there).
rebel1222 said:
posted on November 20, 2006 10:55 AM — 74.246.157.47 — link — abuse?
Bama couldn't score points last year either. If it weren't for Coach Kines and his defense, they would have had 5-6 losses last year also. They lost a couple really good LBr's to the draft so they weren't as tough defensively this year. But at some point the offensive coach has to coach his squad up. Shula needs to go. Wilson is a much better QB than Croyle, he has a good stable of WR's and Johns and Upchurch are a really good couple of RB's. They need a coach with a clear focus each week combined with a solid game plan.
Richard Cooper said:
posted on November 20, 2006 11:06 AM — 74.246.16.231 — link — abuse?
There is no doubt about it, Mike Shula made some horrible decisions this Year. First during the Arkansas game he allowed a freshmen kicker to miss four kicks in total, while Christenson watched on the sidelines. Shula said Jamie had not gotten the reps in practice. Did you know that he was able to do kick offs all game?? How is it possible to sit out a guy who made 4 game winning kicks last year. Then when the Tide played Tennessee Shula made a huge mistake at the end of the first half electing to go for the field goal from the 1 on the road against a better team. What was he thinking? If bama punches that in, they win that game! Auburns D-line killed Bama, thats all that needs to be said. They were beat by UF, LSU, and although it hurts to say Mississippi St. So if Shula does everything right Bama would have gone 8-4. What did you think their final record was going to be at the end of the season knowing they had to travel to Arkansas (#5, now), UF(#4), LSU (Top 10), Tenn (Top 20), oh and to cap off the season with Auburn?????? That is not the easiest schedule in the country. Bama was 10-2 last year, One 4th down in overtime vs. LSU that could have possibly sent Bama to a BCS game!!! Now you want to jump ship??? Being from Miami i know all to well about sorry ass fans who expect way to much every season. Have any of you ever heard of "parity"? Next year is the year for Bama, but only if you keep Shula where he is! Next year they catch all the good SEC teams at home, except Auburn, but come on do you really think they will win 6 in a row? Don't forget that Auburn is the 2nd best University in Alabama, even Wareagles will tell you that. Bama gets Wilson back next year with Hall, Brown, and possibly #4. Next year Bama will be soo good on offense that Shula won't even have a chance to mess it up. Roll Tide!!!!
Cane_Nation said:
posted on November 20, 2006 11:57 AM — 205.166.218.38 — link — abuse?
Paulwesterdawg better check his own kennel before looking at other programs. Being from south GA, I have seen the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" from a stones throw away. How has UGA fared against the hated Gators? This years upset aside, how about auburn? I do think Shula should go, but I don't think a bulldog fan should point out anybody's shortcomins against a bitter rival. If you want to call it a rivalry, I believe to be a rival wins have to alternate every now and then.
posted on November 20, 2006 12:08 PM — link — abuse?Kevin Donahue said:
If I were an Alabama fan, I would be expecting more than what they're getting from Shula. In several games, Tide players have appeared to lack passion. That falls on coaches. Four years is a long time mentor, coach, and develop your players - regardless of how many scholarship restrictions were in place.
2N4YEARS said:
posted on November 20, 2006 3:01 PM — 204.80.132.43 — link — abuse?
I think the semi-succesful season BAMA had in '05 made Shula hold off on changing any assistant coaches. Otherwise, I think he would have changed things up after the '05 season. Now it's come down to the point where his own job is on the fence. I think he should convincingly look the ALA President in the eye and vow to change things up, OR they should let him go. Assistant coaches can make a Head Coach look like a genious or an idiot (see: Phil Fulmer & Cutclife, Tuberville & Al Borghes). Somebody posted that BAMA should stick w/ their Coach thru think & thin. My question is: Where's the thick??
J Thomas said:
posted on November 20, 2006 3:11 PM — 70.178.147.205 — link — abuse?
Tommie i got a question for ya, I don't understand how Arkansas doesn;t get a chance, saying the cards fall right, if they beat out LSU and Florida, I know USC has to lose a game which is the only reason i can think of,and I really don't think that will happen.
FEARmyMIDDLEfinger said:
posted on November 20, 2006 4:12 PM — 209.192.67.3 — link — abuse?
I like shula, Shula is a good recruiter, I think he should hire a good offensive Cord. and let him call the Plays. Fire Dave Radar who has nothing to do with the Offense "its all shula" bring in a offensive mind and keep recruiting and alabama will be fine
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 20, 2006 4:28 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
J Thomas:
The only hope that Arkansas has is: a resounding USC victory over Notre Dame (this will drastically lower Michigan's SOS if Notre Dame slips way down) and a UCLA victory over USC. But, if USC beats UCLA and Notre Dame or Notre Dame beats USC - Arkansas has no chance with the computers. BTW, humans can vote for whoever they see fit - so there is that chance also. I was referring to the computer element only.
Tommie T
AUfan4life said:
posted on November 20, 2006 5:26 PM — 69.244.208.32 — link — abuse?
I think that Shula should probably get a couple more years to pan things out. Maybe hire a new Offensive Coordinator or new offensive staff. I remember when t-tub came to Auburn after Terry Bowden ran us into the the ground. Bowden could coach well with great players, but unlike his daddy, he couldn't recruit worth a crap. T-tub got there and had nothing to work with. Then he went out and got a new staff and recruited almost the whole JUCO national championship team, including Rudi Johnson. Maybe Bama fans should be begging Shula to get a new staff and not ask for his head just yet. However I'm sure he realized that before taking this job that if you don't beat Auburn you don't keep your job. And Saturday will be HIS 4th in a row and a total 5 for the past 5 yrs. Bama fans are weary, and I'd be lieing if I didn't say I don't blame them. Good luck with your decisions Bama,
War Eagle!
goodolnuma5 said:
posted on November 20, 2006 7:27 PM — 24.208.149.244 — link — abuse?
After lissenin to some Bama fans, (they know more about Bama than anyone else) Shula should stay,............for now. But I just dont see the growth, were talkin Bama here! These guys should win games on the name alone! But I dont see the inspiration that Rodriguez gives WVU. The fire that Spurrier gives SC. Even LCarrs team has a bad@ss attitude, but what is Bama?
T-Mac said:
posted on November 20, 2006 7:46 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Andrew R, Now that we have both established the fact that our grammar skills aren't the best, let's talk football. You say you are supporting my argument. How? In what way? It sounds sarcastic to me. BTW-I apologize for calling your post stupid. I was wrong in that. GET AT ME DOG is just an expression Andrew R. Nothing more, Nothing less. Don't be so sensitive bro. It's all good. That's another expression. Chill out G. You seem like you are wound up a little too tight. To answer a couple of your questions that you had. Yes I've been ballin half my life. I'm currently working on a job in the CFL. After a great season in Canada then hopefully I'll get my shot in the GAME. Those defenses can't stop me bro. You get what you give. OUTTY 5000 T-Mac
T-Mac said:
posted on November 20, 2006 9:30 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
VOLPIMP, What's up my man? Nah, aint been in a trunk. Cal So banned me from fanblogs for a little while for picking on him and his daddy Tommie T. Just kiddin. I've been in Canada quite a bit training and getting a job going. Without giving up my identity I'm competing for a starting tailback spot. I've gotten down to 214 pounds which has helped gettin my speed back. I haven't seen many games the last few weeks, but I hear J Crompton looks pretty good. What do you think about the Shula situation and Tennessee next season? You seem like you know more than the average joe that just get's on here and pops off. There were a few nights I wanted to post when I wasn't in the U.S. but I got so sick of the back and fourth of a select few. I think you know who I'm talkin about. Without getting too personal how is your family doing? I hope to settle down someday and have a family, but right now I just can't. PEACE VOLPIMP T-Mac
AceInTheHole said:
posted on November 20, 2006 10:57 PM — 69.22.120.221 — link — abuse?
If Dr. Witt makes the decision to let Mike Shula go (and his decision either way is to be made by the end of the week) what is next for the Alabama Football program? Wisecracks and punchlines aside, the job inherited by a new coach cannot ride the "Rebuilding" scenario that others have had the luxury of falling back on. There will be no 2 year learning curve. And most of all, the candidate will have to deeply consider the following: You are at Alabama-Win Now! In the event that Bama looks for new personnel, which direction do Mal Moore and Robert Witt look? Does the University go with a splashy hire? An offensive guru with a bag of assistants that would make Pete Carroll raise his eyebrows? Or does the University go with a coach with a CEO's personality? A coach who delegates the responsibilies of his most prized obligation to assistants that will do the late night homework that Will Muschamp and Charlie Strong would be impressed with! Whichever option is chosen, one thing is for certain: The time for change is upon the University of Alabama! And change, which can sometimes be good, has become a yearly occurence at the Capstone. Amoungst all of the problems expelled by BamaNation during the last few weeks, I would like to remind all us of a few things.... First, The University of Alabama is EXTREMELY lucky to have Joe Kines as Defensive Coordinator/Ass. Head Coach! The only staple for the Crimson Tide in the past few years has been Kines' ability to have a reliable defense prepared even in the gloomiest of circumstances! And if Shula is asked to resign, Kines may be a part of that package! Second, every time a coaching change is imminent at Alabama, Recruiting is compromised! If a change is made, MAKE THE RIGHT CHANGE! If a new Head Coach is desired, go get what you want and don't take no for an answer! Don't 'settle' for someone that will 'weather the storm'! High School recruits DO NOT want to play for 3 coaches, no matter who you are! And everytime this situation arises....Tennessee, LSU, and Auburn have just one more reason for Alabama's Mr. Football (or a Jemarcus Russell, Pat White, Tee Martin, etc.) to go to school somewhere else! And Lastly, listen to your Seniors! Ask them what they would have done different about their time at the Capstone! Take the athlete into consideration! After all, the athletes are the one who have to live with the decisions of a few! I hope Dr. Robert Witt makes the right decsion! And further, I know for a fact that there are a group of student-athletes sitting in their dorm rooms, apartments, and classrooms wondering if they are going to have to experience what the 2006 Senior did in their tenure at the University of Alabama.
VOLPIMP said:
posted on November 20, 2006 11:45 PM — 208.0.27.10 — link — abuse?
I wondered if you were up there doin it or not, 212 lose about 12 and you got me, minus the speed and the power. Man the Shula thing is kind of love hate for Bama I guess, last year they were eating him up, this year not so much. It's a tough situation to call really, he has had success and he has looked pretty lousy as well. Crompton has looked ok, glad Ainge is back though, hopefully Meacham will stay for his senior year and we will be loaded on offense.Family is good, my future fullback Knox is crawling like there's no tomorrow man, you gotta get you one! Far as the homers go, I just ignore them. You ever wanna talk UT or SEC hit me at Voluminous blog cuz, don't stop comin here though, there are a few of us in here that know the real deal. Holla at yur boy.
T-Mac said:
posted on November 21, 2006 12:09 AM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
VOLPIMP, 210 is about as low as I'd like to go weight-wise. I'd be sacrificing that Bull in me you heard? I'm at 214 pounds right now and am cut up. I'm 6 feet 1/4 inches tall so I don't want to go too low on my weight. Well, really though for me it is a struggle to stay down because I love to eat bro. All I would like right now is a large Pizza Hut pepperoni and green pepper. I can't though. My trainer has me on a strict diet. If I don't watch my weight I'd be 230 pounds in no time and be running a 4.8 second 40yd. Instead of my 4.438 40yd that I run now. This diet that I'm on right now always leaves me hungry, but it is paying off so far. I drink water, gatorade, propel fitness water, and cranberry juice. I can eat an 8 ounce steak once a week. That's like Christmas for me. I used to eat 3 8-ounce steaks with a couple baked potatos and chili cheese fries. Do I sound hungry? My stomach is growling right now. I'm allowed a protein bar, glass of milk and some fruit before I go to sleep. Yeah, I do want a family someday. At this point in my life it is hard to tell what a woman's intentions are. It's hard to trust women where I'm at. You feel me on that? You take care of that family G cause in the end that's all ya got. Keep it real VOLPIMP. YA BOY
T-MacDiggs the Mountie said:
posted on November 21, 2006 1:57 AM — 68.48.90.67 — link — abuse?
T-MAC, best of luck bro! I wish I knew what it was like to be in your shoes.... I miss it bad! I'm 6'0...about 210. I could never get my speed down below a 4.69. I played Free Safety at the High School level, and a little HB at certain times. My grades were decent, but no Scholarships. Ehh, I couldn't afford College myself and quickly fell into the dead end job category. A few years went by and nothing to show for it. So I joined the Navy,I've been in for about 4 and a half yrs now. I'm 27 and my "DREAMS OF BEING OUT ON THE FIELD ARE PRETTY MUCH GONE WITH THE WIND". Anyway... may your feet be swift and your shoulder low! Good Luck Bro! ( I know everyone wants to clown on me now..... go ahead do it).
bamafanIam said:
posted on November 21, 2006 3:46 PM — 216.180.57.1 — link — abuse?
**I'm not an Alabama fan, and they would know better than anyone whether Shula needs to go or not, however, it seems to me that Bama has 'shot themselves in the foot' when it comes to hiring coaches. If I were an up and coming coach in college I woulds think twice before I would agree to go there with the fickle fans they have there. Bama needs to find a coach and stick with them through thick and thin.**
Thick and thin??? How many YEARS is that exactlly???? No coach in Alabama history has had more of a chance to win football games than Mike Shula! The man is a really nice guy but, they don't give out college football wins for that.Jarred said:
posted on November 21, 2006 4:01 PM — 12.178.138.65 — link — abuse?
I'm not going to clown on anyone. I didn't play in school and never really worked out, although I could touch the rim as freshman, in high school. Parents didn't want to play either. I'm built like a defensive end, long armed 6'4" 210 right now. I had crappy ankles and can't run. Probably couldn't hold the weight to play line. I can watch any game and tell you what both teams are going to do and what the offense should do. No not after the fact.
T-Mac said:
posted on November 21, 2006 9:33 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Diggs, post 40. Thanks a lot bro. That really means a lot to me. People are so quick to discourage rather than encourage. I tell you what Diggs. We'll see how many haters clown on you when you get season tickets, airfare, and hotel exp after I'm in the NFL. How does that sound? You pick and choose which games you can attend and I'll pick it up. YA BOY T-Mac
Diggs the Mountie said:
posted on November 21, 2006 9:59 PM — 68.48.90.67 — link — abuse?
T-MAC, You make it... and I'll gladly come watch. I tell ya what.... you could save yourself airfare, and hotel expenses by simply becoming a HOG (been a fan since I was old enough to watch t.v.). Fed-Ex field is about 5 miles away from me. Plus you'd be re-united with an SEC QB in Jason Campbell. (about time he got the start) I tell ya what though.... I'll sure take you up on that offer though T-MAC. No-matter what game I'm at..... I always get that new car feeling when I see the plays go down in person. (Stick to the diet Bro).
DiggsT-Mac said:
posted on November 22, 2006 1:01 AM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
VOLPIMP, Pimpin aint easy! Man, I always got room for another P-I-M-P in the CREW. You heard? Most of the CFL games will be televised in the U.S. as well. It is a LONG way from the inner-city of Atlanta, GA. The country and scenery is very nice in Canada, but it get's very cold. I hope I spelled scenery right. When you have to run you feel like your chest is on-fire from the inside out because it is so cold. Not complainin though at all. I'm just layin the groundwork. Hopefully, a steppin stone to the NFL. I can't sleep some nights cause I know these defenses in the CFL can't stop me. I wish I could start in the NFL this Sunday. I have to be patient I know, but it is hard. T-Mac
CFB_CRZY said:
posted on November 22, 2006 10:56 AM — 72.165.136.4 — link — abuse?
If you're not from Alabama you might have to do alot of research to have any idea why losing the Iron Bowl should cost you your job.
At Auburn, and for Alabama the Iron Bowl is the season maker. Tuberville has now had a career maker and has told several media person that beating Alabama is the most important thing to do at the end of each season.
Last year an 11 sack school record was a reminder, this year near de-capitation of John Parker Wilson was a mission! Next year Auburn is working on the other hand! Keeping Shula is the new Auburn Mission Statement because some coaches just have others numbers!
Don't forget Alabama handed Auburn 9 straight losses and Auburn is working to even the score. I do think the talent pool is building at Alabama and this last Iron Bowl was evidence enough of a potential wave on the horizon. However once again Talent and Motivational Postings (Five fingers for Tubberville] don't win you the Iron Bowl, its indivdual motivation and self determination at the right time that influences the most during the Iron Bowl. There have been many a superior team that have lost to the furvor of a lesser talented opponent in this game.
If your coach doesn't understand that after 5 beatings maybe the 6th one will be a charm! He will at least have some self motivating reasons to base his entire season on beating Auburn!
I agree with a previously stated comments that suggested talent and program say you stay with Shula and at least have a chance to break the streak and win, before Auburn starts on another run and goes for a decade of dominance. If you bring in a new guy, he better be able to risk his career to beat Auburn! One other thing its not about beating the coach its about beating the TEAM. A plan to to beat Tubberville, well probably loses you the game. My vote keep Shula, and see what happens!
Bama50 said:
posted on November 22, 2006 11:28 AM — 67.72.98.116 — link — abuse?
How sad that Bama fans cannot see the forest for the trees. Mike Shula walked into the biggest mess that has ever been seen in college football. The first year he was not even able to recruit his players, he had to take what was there. The idea the he played with his recruits last year was ludicrious. He will only begin to truly play with his recruits next year (2007). We knew when he got here that it was going to take 5-7 years to get the program back. And remember, the 10-2 season last year was a freak thing. It was most likley the worst thing that could have happened to Shula. He has recruited well, finishing in the top 12 in the nation for two consecutive years. He is headed in that direction again. He redshirted 3 of the four linemen (all top prospects) he recruited last year. He has said time and again that until Alabama can get it's depth back in 4 year juniors and 5th year seniors it was going to be hard to be competitive. I know that the sting of the losses are hard to take, but you do not recover from the kind of sanctions Bama took in two or three years. SMU got the death penalty (something Alabama was "looking down the barrle of" (NCAA's quote not mine), and they have not recovered yet. What will really put the tombstone on the program is not the retention of Shula, but the firing of him. We cannot take another unpheaval in our program at this time. You mouthy so-called Bama fans need to give it a rest and give the man the time he was promised when he came into a very difficult situation. Shula may or may not be able to take Bama to the next level, but one thing is certain, to fire him now will almost certainly make it difficult and longer for this tradition laden program to get back on top. Give it some thought!
VOLPIMP said:
posted on November 22, 2006 6:28 PM — 208.0.27.10 — link — abuse?
Bama50 is exactly right. If Shula leaves now you guys will be starting all over...again. Bama really needs some stability right now, you have a young talented QB and you always have a good defense. I say give him a few more years for things to pan out. You get a new coach and you could very well go back further than you care to.
goodolnuma5 said:
posted on November 22, 2006 9:17 PM — 24.208.149.244 — link — abuse?
Auburn fan needs to stop with the, keep Shula montra. Dont you guys realize that the better they are, the better youll be? Bama is one of the GREATS in college football. When theyre bad, you cant make fun of em anymore, remember ND in the 90s?
Randy said:
posted on November 22, 2006 9:28 PM — 66.82.9.81 — link — abuse?
In response to Andrew R. Amazing what short memory Auburn fans have. I have been a Bama fan since the late 50's. Check the records, starting with the 1959 season, Alabama won 9 of 10. Starting with the 1973 season they won 9 in a row.
Now you have Auburn fans jumping up and down saying that they own Alabama. Even "Ears" Tuberville got into the act after the game. Instead of talking about how well the team played, all that he could focus on was that they had beaten Alabama 5 times in a row.
Remember, what goes around comes around.
I know that Auburn fans will say that the Alabama streaks are ancient history. Still, a win is a win. If you want to talk ancient history, talk about Auburn's 1957 national championship team.
Auburn will NEVER get respect around the nation. They will always be Bama's ugly step-child.
BamaSucks said:
posted on November 22, 2006 11:18 PM — 68.152.51.91 — link — abuse?
i have posted before on other pages and i will say again, Shula can't coach! i have the proof to back that statement up......his record as OC at Tampa Bay. the same messed up play callings at alabama he did at tampa. Tony Dungy had a hard time defending him and eventually had to fire him.
just because he's an alabama boy doesn't mean he can coach!
i just hope you guys keep him........KEEP SHULA!!T-Mac said:
posted on November 23, 2006 7:50 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Jarred, post 46. The reason I've gone to the CFL is because I can play right away. Starting pay versus squad money in the NFL. I wanna get as much work in as I can and than hit the combines in the spring. After I run all over the place in Canada I shouldn't have to think about the combines, but if I do than it's all good. I'm not tryin to take the easy road or anything bro. Life is short. After I run up and down the field in the CFL my offers from the NFL will be blowin up. Jarred, what I'm sayin is that I don't wanna sit on the sidelines behind somebody waitin on my shot.You heard? Some call it Selfish. I call it Ambition. When I suit-up I wanna be totin the rock and not my helmet. T-Mac
Bleed Crimson said:
posted on November 23, 2006 7:56 PM — 74.230.1.215 — link — abuse?
In my opinion, Shula shouldve never been hired in the first place. I see exactly what the atheletic director was trying to do in hiring shula, that is they wanted a young, good, coach that they could keep around for the next 20 years and that they could build a dynasty around. The only problem was that Shula was not the right guy. Besides the stats above, the guy had absolutely no head coaching experience whatsoever. Now who in their right mind would send a coach with no experience into the most hostile environment for a head coach in America?? I mean c'mon some are saying give the guy another chance, he could turn out to be a good coach but at Alabama we don't have time to wait around and develop a coach while were getting losing seasons, and losing iron bowls. Sorry, but i say we bring a coach down from the NFL, similar to what Notre Dame did with Charlie Weiss. Look what happened to Notre Dame. I say we get some kinda hardass defensive coordinator from either the ravens, the bears, or the broncos. someone that people in Alabama can respect like hmmm... idk The Bear. Those are my thoughts. Mike Shula is a great recruiter, a great guy in general, but doesnt have what it takes to be a head coach in tuscaloosa.
brownsrodeo88 said:
posted on November 23, 2006 9:19 PM — 64.12.116.199 — link — abuse?
Why Shula shouldnt go: You cant leave cover til you have cover.
Who could Bama pick up if they dropped Shula?
My suggestion would be Sylvester Croom. I know he's trying to rebuild (or just build) MSU, but as his old coach, Bear Bryant said, when Mama calls you gotta listen.
SportsFan said:
posted on November 23, 2006 11:27 PM — 69.1.34.164 — link — abuse?
I think it is crazy to pay a guy 2 million a year for OJT. If it was up to me I would first fire the AD for getting us into this situation which includes the two previous coaches. Whatever happens Shula wins, fire him and he gets 4 M, keep him another year and pay him another 2 M. Where can I get such a deal for being bad at something?
philip powell said:
posted on November 25, 2006 1:09 AM — 68.105.56.113 — link — abuse?
shula sucks. maybe he is a nice guy but definitely should not be the head coach of one of the greatest football programs in college. but is this all shula's fault, no first off he should have never been hired in the first place. mal moore's ridiculous decisions show that he too should be booted.
Randy Colburn said:
posted on November 25, 2006 3:47 PM — 205.188.116.133 — link — abuse?
If he don/t win next year then he sould be gone and we need to find someone who can win the big games.
sherry harper said:
posted on November 27, 2006 1:21 PM — 208.1.105.207 — link — abuse?
i think you shold get rid of mal moore before you do mike shula. mike had ahard job when he came to alabama and he has done pretty good with what he has had to work with. he deserves another year at it. thanks sherry harper addison alabama.
Jeff said:
posted on November 27, 2006 2:48 PM — 12.65.78.146 — link — abuse?
Listening to alot of you guys' out there i agree on both sides, how ever listening to my heart says keep him but, in my head he has to leave or at the least get him the most qualified personnel around him to make the right calls (Offensive coordinator). Granted he has done well in his tenure in some areas but come on Rader needs to take a whole lot of the blame for not going for the throat when we had teams against the ropes for the knock out! Now that the hammer has been dropped and we are on the hunt for someone new we should do pretty much what ever it takes $$ wise to get whom ever like J.Johnson not quite so old and still has stroke, M. Dika will demand nothing but 100% every minute and can coach, D. Green is headed possibly out would may be good choice as well. Let me hear from you guys on this!
csxtman said:
posted on November 27, 2006 4:00 PM — 69.19.14.27 — link — abuse?
this is who needs firing!!!!
Name: Mal M. Moore
Position: Athletic Director
Department: Intercollegiate Athletics
Room/Building: Football Office Complex
Telephone: 348-3600
Fax: 348-2196
E-mail: mmoore@ia.ua.edu
Box Number: Box 870323
Donna Roper said:
posted on November 27, 2006 10:30 PM — 70.125.100.54 — link — abuse?
Mike Shula is an asset to the UA Football program. He was NOT given a reasonable time limit to get the team in the state that is "expected" of the UA directors/fans. When he arrived here, he had nothing but mostly youngsters plus NO scholarships available to obtain "great" players (even though we have great players)and not much else to work with. I am extremely saddened and shocked at the untimely, extremely quick and immediate firing of "our" coach, Mike Shula. This decision should have been made with extreme thought and prayer and not just for the winnings at the onset. I LOVE MIKE SHULA!!! I believe he should remain at the U of A. Do not act in haste . . . it makes waste!!! Thanks in advance for your insight into this much necessary e-mail response. Please reconsider your actions.
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poejoe said:
posted on November 18, 2006 10:36 PM — 68.232.145.70 — link — abuse?I'm not an Alabama fan, and they would know better than anyone whether Shula needs to go or not, however, it seems to me that Bama has 'shot themselves in the foot' when it comes to hiring coaches. If I were an up and coming coach in college I woulds think twice before I would agree to go there with the fickle fans they have there. Bama needs to find a coach and stick with them through thick and thin.