December 5, 2006
Coach Rod interviews with Alabama
West Virginia Head Coach Rich Rodriguez met with Alabama AD Mal Moore for approximately 90 minutes today in New York. Rodriguez confirmed the meeting in an interview, but downplayed the significance.
"It was an informal meeting," Rodriguez told espn.com.When asked how long the meeting lasted, Rodriguez turned to his wife, Rita, and said, "25, 30 minutes. How long did it last, Rita?"
"Ninety minutes," Rita Rodriguez said.
"Oh," Rodriguez said. "Well, we didn't talk about anything specific. We didn't talk about plans or facilities or anything."
According to the report, Rodriguez refused to speculate on what would happen next.
While there are reports that Miami is balking at Rodriguez's $2 million buyout, Alabama has no such qualms about the price tag on Rodriguez's WVU deal and has made him their solid #1 candidate.
UPDATE
Nick Saban has turned down a Bama interview.
UPDATE
Alabama has offered the Head Coaching position to WVU coach Rich Rodriguez.
Multiple sources have now confirmed that the University of Alabama has extended an offer to West Virginia head coach Rich Rodriguez to become the next head football coach for the Crimson Tide.
...
Terms of UA's offer to Rodriguez, who is 49-24 in six seasons in Morgantown, are unclear, although he was expected to receive a deal somewhere in the neighborhood of $2 million per year.
Comments:
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 7:00 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
This ones big and doesn't sound like any kinda joke. Problem is: I don't know if he finds another Pat White or Steve Slaton and they sure can't play any defense at West Virginia. I wonder how much success he can really have in the SEC? I don't think that that offense can fly in the SEC.
Tommie T
BigWarEagle said:
posted on December 5, 2006 7:08 PM — 68.219.48.89 — link — abuse?
It'll take Rodriquez 2 or 3 years to recruit and get the players necessary to run his offense at Bama. This one just doesnt make sense. Bama needs someone who can win immediately with the lineup they have right now. I dont think the bama faithful can stomach another "3 year project."
Charlie said:
posted on December 5, 2006 7:24 PM — 71.203.164.64 — link — abuse?
Tommie T...
I imagine he'd probably find another Pat White where he found the first one - in Alabama. Rodriguez's offense doesn't NEED superstars - White and Slaton were ranked in the high 50's coming out of high school. It's his system that kicks butt. Don't think it would work in the SEC? Ask Mark Richt and last years SEC champs Georgia Bulldogs if it works.
Big East Fan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 7:56 PM — 129.71.136.174 — link — abuse?
Tommie Trojan, until today, I thought you were rather intelligent...now I realize you are as ignorant as IrishJT.
Urban Meyer stole his offense from Coach Rod and installed it at Florida...If I'm not wrong Florida won the SEC in his second year, and is playing for the national championship.
Not to mention the success that WVU had against the SEC champ in last years Sugar Bowl.
TT do you actually research anything before you post or do you speak ignorantly. But for this time...perhaps you just overlooked to very Key facts. So you are forgiven.
Having said that, Coach Rod has been great so far at WVU and has put us higher on the map than even Don Nehlen, but if his heart is with Alabama or Money, than so be it. However, I still think he's using it as bait to get whatever he wants here in West Virginia from our stingy Athletic Director.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 8:05 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Charlie:
I'm not sure that even in the great state of Alabama that there is gonna be too many Pat White's around. That guy is a real rare talent. There have been many that can run - but not many who can throw like that. West Virginia has a great offense because of two players. Texas averaged 50 last year because of Vince Young. USC averaged 50 with Bush and Leinart. Those people are gone and the offense is not there. I'm not sure we're gonna get another Reggie Bush anytime too soon. I'm talking about Heisman type players here and they don't grow on trees. But, I'm with you on the notion that somehow he'll create better offense than Alabama has had. That is probably a given. But, what about the defense. I'm not so sure that you can just count on raw ability if the coaches can't coach it.
Tommie T
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 8:33 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Big East Fan:
I'm alluding to the idea that Alabama maybe allured by the offense currently going on at West Virginia. That is not gonna be like that always. There are two extremely talented all-americans there right now. I did not say that Rodriguez can't coach. And, without the talent, I doubt if he would try and run an option at Alabama until he could find the talent.
I'm kinda more with BigWarEagle in that it might be a three year project. Will they fire him before then? And, Forida's offense doesn't look much like West Virginia's offense to me. I'd take West Virginia's offense with Florida's defense and play anyone though. I can't imagine that he's gonna walk into Alabama and find a Pat White and Steve Slaton, people with that much speed, dwiddlin' their thumbs on the bench. If there was two guys like that within' two hundred miles - Shula would still be coaching there.Tommie T
Big East Fan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 8:43 PM — 129.71.136.174 — link — abuse?
Tommie Trojan,
I'll admit, I haven't watched Florida much this season...I had season tickets for the Mountaineers and attend 6 of 7 games. What I do konw is that Urban Meyer came to Coach Rod to learn his offense while he was at Bowling Green (Meyer) I think??? Then he got famous at Utah, them brought his show to Florida.
Perhaps, I'm bitter because Coach Rod is the Father of the Spread offense and all I hear about is the Great Urban Meyer. Maybe it would be nice to see Coach Rod go to the SEC and show that conference how to play offense.
Brownsrodeo88 said:
posted on December 5, 2006 9:11 PM — 64.12.116.199 — link — abuse?
Tommie Trojan, I can think of at least one:
Tyrone Prothro. He's allegedly coming back for '07.
And while he's not Pat White, JPW can run effectively.
But I dont want to see Bama go to an option style offense personally. I like the pro-style which was installed, I just didn't like the play calling, which was the main reason Shula was released. Poor play calling from himself and the refusal to instill new coordinators who could actually call plays.
Paul said:
posted on December 5, 2006 9:26 PM — 24.158.132.144 — link — abuse?
I say Rich should go...want an arrogent jerk. He lambasted the reporter who reported this last week, essentially calling him a not good liar. I say if Rich has no more pride in WVU than that...get the heck out of town and fast.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 5, 2006 9:31 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
BrownsRodeo88:
Hey, that's great that Prothro is makin' it back. I wondered what happened to him. Good idea to give him the whole year off. Yeh, great talent. Hope he still has that speed. That'll surely help the next coach.
Tommie T
T-Mac said:
posted on December 5, 2006 9:42 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
I don't wanna burst anyone's bubble here, but don't look for Prothro to play again. It's a miracle after that infection set in that he isn't an amputee. I wish the best in life for him, but football is over. He will forever be remembered though. The real shame is that we just got a tiny sample of what he was capable of. He played fearless. Players like that don't come along everyday. Much Love Pro T-Mac
Zac said:
posted on December 5, 2006 10:01 PM — 65.31.228.13 — link — abuse?
I've said it before. A good leader considers all the options before making a decision. Whether that decision is a foregone conclusion or not, he still listens to and considers all the options. Alabama has a storied history rich in tradition and pride. What coach, if given a chance, wouldn't at least take a look? Coach Rod needs only to remember the rhetoric by Donna Shalala, U of Miami President, and the Board of Regents, VA Tech. They were all committed to a strong Big East conference. We all know how that turned out. Well, Coach Rod has been quoted as saying, "...I'll be coaching at West Virginia next year...", "...I plan on staying at West Virginia for as long as they'll have me..." He's been quoted directly; he's held press conferences; he's even got such quotes in the paper. Does that mean he shouldn't give Bama a chance, or at least listen to them? No. Does that mean he's on his way because he did give them an ear. No. I think he's staying. If I'm wrong, it won't be the 1st time, but I will not have known a time in being wrong that may be more disappointing.
C-DOGG said:
posted on December 5, 2006 11:07 PM — 76.188.148.131 — link — abuse?
Prothro was an excellent player. ESPN is still using his ESPY winning play on their shows. He is a very spiritual person and he understands that their may be a much better way for him to impact the world than football. His play could have saved Shula's job.....he's that good.
TidemaninTN said:
posted on December 5, 2006 11:08 PM — 4.153.66.162 — link — abuse?
Rich Rod would be good at Bama if, and only if he does everything he can to keep Kines as DC. I like what Rodriguez does on O but please don't bring that sorry D from WV to Bama.
As far as the other big names that have been mentioned for the job.
Petrino- Good O, maybe better for Bama with the current players but again no D.
Spurrier- Thank God he is not interested. I think he would do well at Bama, but his ego would not fit in. At FL it was all about him not FL football. Now it isn't SC team, it's Spurrier's team....I just don't like him.
Coker- C'mon, he is pretty good with the X's & O's but has no control over his players and the only recruits he can get seem to come out of the penal system. If they wern't in prison when recruited they should have been.
Shciano- At least his team has a D.
Hell if it were up to me I wouldn't mind Joe Kines being the permanent head coach and let him bring in a new DC that would run his game and an OC that could actually call plays.
TidemaninTN said:
posted on December 5, 2006 11:35 PM — 4.153.66.162 — link — abuse?
WHatever happens with the coach I hope he has the sense to use the talent that is there. Alabama should be good next year and possibly compete for the SEC West. If Prothro comes back they will have one of the best rec corps in the nation. If not they will still be very good with Hall and Brown. JPW is a good QB when he has time and the RB are pretty good with Johns leading the pack. The O line improved a lot as the season progressed, especially in the run game. The D was good despite being almost completely replaced from a year ago. COmbine that with getting TN, Ark, & LSU at home next year there will be no excuse for not winning at least 9 games.
dawgfan said:
posted on December 6, 2006 9:34 AM — 65.222.248.66 — link — abuse?
all of you talking about whether or not rod's version of the spread offense will work at alabama or not are not realizing something. a good offensive coordiantor/coach does not use the exact same scheme no matter where he goes. he taylors the offense to his talent and makes changes according to the defense hes playing against. guys who get to that level of coaching arent dumb enough to just run their scheme and hope it works. they think outside the box and figure out new ways for it to work. if rod is as good as people say, he will adapt his offense to bamas offensive talent and also adapt it to run against SEC defenses. he wont run the exact same version of the spread offense he has run in the past at WVU. obvioulsly it will still be a spread offense, but a different version w/ in the spread offense. obviously UF's offense next year will be different w/ tebow than it was this year w/ leak. these guys would not be where they are if they werent smart enough to make these decisions. heck, they even have to mix things up and make changes when things are working b/c if you do the exact same thing time and time again, people will learn how to stop you.
Zac said:
posted on December 6, 2006 10:27 AM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
Jeremy: Thanks for making bambambama's point. I just love it when someone say's something, without actually saying anything. I had not heard Pat White would leave, by the way. The jury's still out as to whether Coach Rod will actually leave.
A lot of names have been thrown about regarding this issue. Has no one thought of Terry Bowden? I though he did a tremendous job at Auburn, given the Tigers had nothing to play for (11-0 1st year). While the following year was not quite as good (9-3, I think), that's still nothing to sneeze at. And, that's when they sacked him. (My understanding is he had trouble with the administration there.) So far as I know, the man's available, and yes, he has a mind for a solid defense. Why not give him a try?
Josh said:
posted on December 6, 2006 12:13 PM — 64.113.184.12 — link — abuse?
Pat White cant go to another D1 school unless he sits out a year. I don't think that Pat would enjoy sitting out a year. Rich Rod is using Bama to get more jack from WVU, and its working. Good for you Rich-- you deserve it!!
posted on December 6, 2006 12:26 PM — 64.12.116.199 — link — abuse?War Eagle Atlanta said:
Zac: Not even an Auburn man like me would want Terry Bowden to go to Alabama. He wasn't a bad coach, 11-0 in 1993 and 9-1-1 in 1994. He went 8-4 in both 1995 and 1996, had a good year at 10-3 in 1997, then left after a few games in 1998 when things didn't go so well. Much speculation occured about why he left. There were problems with one meddling trustee, Bobby Lowder, but one reason I heard over and over was that he had lost the respect of his players. Who knows? I think he has been out of coaching for too long now (8 seasons) to be of any use to any team.
Rodriguez might be a good fit at Bama. They still like to run the ball over there and if Joe Kines sticks around, he can teach Rod about playing defense. He better go like gangbusters, though, because 3-4 years is all he has.
Craig said:
posted on December 6, 2006 2:35 PM — 162.40.55.85 — link — abuse?
ABout 4 years is all it takes at a major Division 1 program to see if the coach is gonna fly or not (assuming the program isn't on probation or anything). It's just like a few years (4 I think) ago when Auburn had started looking for a new coach (Petrino) after Tuberville had a bad season, but before the Alabama game. Auburn administrators got fired and shortly thereafter, Tuberville's Tigers went Gangbusters and they almost fired him! NO big program has tolerance for losing. Sure, the expectations are big in Tuscaloosa, but they are big anywhere, especially in the deep South. I think Shula deserved 1 more year because of the situation he had walked into, but let's face it... the guy can not call plays!!
Rod said:
posted on December 6, 2006 2:36 PM — 206.51.158.63 — link — abuse?
Guys...He is good as gone. Just got word from a pretty reliable source that it will be announced that he has accepted an offer in the 2.5 million range for 7 years. I really wish it were a ploy to get WVU to pay him more, but it doesnt seem to be the case. I just hate that he is leaving right when he gets the program to where he had envisioned everything coming together. He has said ever since he started that HIS year would be 2007. Oh and by the way, Shula had 10 WINS THIS YEAR!! 10!!! ...And he was booted. If you dont beat Auburn at Bama, you can forget about lasting that long!!!
shiguy said:
posted on December 6, 2006 2:57 PM — 157.182.42.132 — link — abuse?
who ever it was that made that comment about wvu not having any D but rutgers having it obviously iddn't watch the triple overtime when WVU won that game. furthermore the reason the D is bad is because of the 2 returners in the back field for WVU. look at last year when they had the seniors along with lorello and it was rated at one of the top 3 defenses in the country.
Borolet said:
posted on December 6, 2006 3:34 PM — 168.11.116.47 — link — abuse?
Here's the deal and mark my words. What Rodriguez is doing is only flirting. He was not happy with the small increase in salary he got in his re-negotiated contract six months ago. He figures he will play the game and get the same deal as Steve Spurrier got. West Virginia will anti up and sweeten the pot for him to stay. He is an alum and native son of West Virgina. They love him there. Why would he want to go anywhere else? Money. When it all comes down to push and shove, West Virginia will give him a raise and he will stay there. I'm not so sure he could or would want to deal with the pressure to win win at Alabama.
FanoftheGame said:
posted on December 6, 2006 4:58 PM — 12.43.234.14 — link — abuse?
You might be right. I just read a release that had the offer estimated at around $3.1 million a year on a 7 year contract. Thats 3x's what he is making now, and way more than WVU is prepared to counter. Given into account the "loyalty" factor, I think Rich will take the job at Bama for the near $22 miilion contract and show that if there is any loyalty at all, it lies with the FSU program and the head coaching job that he really wants. I can see him taking this type of money, knowing he will have at least 2 years at Bama to "reverse the tide"(excuse the pun) and/or position himself within a time-frame that allow him to cash in now and then step into his dream job at FSU within the next few years. This deal may be as good as done, I guess next is Jimbo Fisher taking over at NC State.
bamagirl4ever said:
posted on December 6, 2006 6:24 PM — 70.146.220.174 — link — abuse?
I have said it since the beginning of the search that I would like for Bama to get Rodriguez. Some of ya'll have said that there might not be enough talent in Alabama to fit his offense, but I disagree. If you are a good coach, you can make any player better. I was a freshman at Daphne when Pat White was a senior. He was a good quarterback in high school, but now watching him play at WVU, he's just improved tremendously. Sure the guy has had great talent all him life, but the coach plays a major role in that talent becoming greater.
I think Coach Rod would be great for bama and I hope he comes. Keep Joe Kines and Alabama would be great on BOTH sides of the ball. That hasn't happened in a long time.Oh an Rod: "Shula had 10 WINS THIS YEAR!! 10!!!...And he was booted."
Actually, he won 6 games this year. He went 10-2 last year.willijo said:
posted on December 6, 2006 10:08 PM — 68.220.165.123 — link — abuse?
I am not sure if coach rod is a good fit for bama. I am a lifelong tide fan and I always be one. i just hope we didn't mess up and fire shula when we can't get a decent replacement. I have a hard time beliveing that they didn't have somebody at least on the radar when they fired him. i hope this will work out for the best.
Cape Cod Tom RU '84 said:
posted on December 6, 2006 10:42 PM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
I say, if Rod leaves WVU and The Big East after the great opportunity that that university provided him, than he's just another shitbum carpetbagger, as far as I'm concerned.
Hell, The Big East Brotherhood must stick together!
T-Mac said:
posted on December 6, 2006 11:08 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse?
Cape Cod Tom, I see what you are saying bro about Rod leavin for Bama. We must realize though that it is still a job and or business for Coaches. You feel me on that? Alright, say you are working for $20 an hour. Alright, now say you are offered a job making $50 an hour or more. This job offer comes with some baggage though. I know what I would do. CC-Tom, what would you do brother? T-Mac
Cape Cod Tom RU '84 said:
posted on December 6, 2006 11:18 PM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
T-Mac:
West Virginia is paying him over one million dollars a year. I see your point, if the guy makes $20 per hour, however, we're talking millions in this case. That's more than anyone could spend.
There comes a point when money does not matter anymore. Rod has reached that point. To abandon WVU now is going to turn the whole state against him. He's a native of your state. His mother lives there! What kind of man would turn his back on West Virginia and momma?
I can't believe he would do it.
Schaino at Rutgers was rumored to be leaving for Miami, but he saw the light and stayed. Rod will too.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 6, 2006 11:22 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Cape Cod Tom:
Your off the list - as I finally heard an intelligent statement made about IrishJT. That's too bad because for a moment - I thought you were gonna make it to the Top Five. Irish JT is our runaway winner this year, and anybody who can recognize that, cannot be a contestant. Several Gators did fall out of the Top Ten after the BIG win over Arkansas. We are currently looking for more people, just like IrishJT, to grab those last four coveted spots. There are a couple of guys comin' up fast - but, I really don't think anyone is gonna stop IrishJT from taking the National Championship in stupidity. We'll see how he does when LSU meets Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. Personally, I got all my money on IrishJT.
Tommie T
Diggs the Mountie said:
posted on December 7, 2006 1:21 AM — 68.48.90.67 — link — abuse?
Well, I said it in an earlier topic already. Rodriguez, I think will be leaving after the Bowl Game. I think he is just trying to downplay all the negotiations to cover his image if we are blown out in this game against GT.(by that I mean he doesn't want people thinking that the reason we lost the game is because of his lack of focus) However, with that said I don't think we will lose the game. I think that he is trying his best to leave WVU on a good note.
Borolet said:
posted on December 7, 2006 9:56 AM — 168.11.116.166 — link — abuse?
Reports are already coming out of Morgantown, WV from the AD of WVU. The AD is willing to improve the facilities and do whatever it takes to keep Rodriguez at home. Trust me Rodriguez is not going anywhere. He is only using the Bama job as leverage to get what he really wanted to begin with at West Virginia. Rodriguez will not be wearing crimson next year.
easternfan said:
posted on December 7, 2006 11:25 AM — 67.72.98.91 — link — abuse?
Alabama shouldn't have fired Shula in the first place. They have more money than brains down there. 6M to Shula, 2M to WVU, 2.5-3M to Coach Rod????? Why dont they give a free education to some poor kids instead! Total, complete tom-foolery!
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 7, 2006 11:54 AM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Borolet:
I'm with you on this one. It's not gonna hapen. I hate to even mention this...but: Alabama has never had a QB named Washington, Jones or Fuentes - they'll never have a coach named Rodriguez either. I can't even picture it. It wouldn,t happen no matter what. I'm sure that coach Rodriguez is flattered and all...but, he's just not that stupid.
Tommie T
Borolet said:
posted on December 7, 2006 2:21 PM — 168.11.116.166 — link — abuse?
alfanforever
You mention a video you saw on www.crimsontideblog.com that summed up the situation. Maybe I am blind, but I was unable to find it. Can you give us directions on how to navigate to the video or post the direct link.
Thanks.
jlputt4par said:
posted on December 7, 2006 3:47 PM — 64.181.86.133 — link — abuse?
I was at the wvu vs. n.c. state basketball game. Coach rodriguez was their too. Alabama people was all over him!!! They left and came back. Then coach left, before the basketball game was over. Now to day alabama offered head job.Looks like done deal for alabama. Home sweet home west virginia coach Rod!!!
Jeremy said:
posted on December 7, 2006 3:48 PM — 65.82.138.66 — link — abuse?
Alabama has made an offer to Rodriguez,
expect a decision by tonight or tommorrow morning Coach Rod does not want it to ruin his recruiting that starts this weekend, if he stays.Note: As of right now WVU has the 16th recruiting class in the country, the highest ever in the history, why would he want to walk away from what he has.
Kevin Thompson said:
posted on December 7, 2006 4:43 PM — 74.246.157.47 — link — abuse?
Post #25 says it's not the scheme but the lack of corners. Well, I can't argue about the corners, but the 3-3-5 stack SUCKS. Thats why they have no defense. If he runs that crap in the SEC he'll be run out on a rail before the end of the year.
I hope he comes, and brings his o-line coach. But I hope he retains Kines as DC.
Big Tide said:
posted on December 7, 2006 5:19 PM — 69.34.227.69 — link — abuse?
What easternfan doesn't understand is that football is religion in the state of Alambama and we are TIRED of being down. Plus, the first ten million we pay RR we be paid back to us with a solid season and a BCS bowl. The alums that write the big checks to UA love football and that's all there is to it.
Bleed Crimson said:
posted on December 7, 2006 5:40 PM — 74.230.8.26 — link — abuse?
ill tell you right now why rodriuez will be wearing crimson next year.
at first didnt he basically say: "theres no way in hell ill coach at bama next year" to "yes, me and mal moore had a meeting in new york"
this guy is getting double the salary, double the facilities, and a chance to be known across the nation as a BIG TIME head coach if he does well at Alabama. Rich will also be getting a better fan base and better recruiting class. The only reason he wouldnt would be extreme loyalty to WVU which i think weve already seen he doesnt have alot of. I think if weve offered him a job, its a done deal.
next: will the spread option work in the SEC? ive got two things to say: Florida Gators, and last years BCS bowl with WVU vs. UGA.
yes, rich rodriguez's defense does suck, but isnt that what we have the best DC in college football for? this will just give Joe Kines more control over our team and will be helping rich adapt to our system. Anyone that can bring what he brought to freakin WEST VIRGINIA can win multiple national championships at a program like Alabama.
im lovin it.volstrike3 said:
posted on December 7, 2006 6:17 PM — 71.155.146.93 — link — abuse?
16th is about as good as WVA is going to ever do. If you were a 5 star football player from anywhere but WVA, would you want to spend four years in the state West Virginia? Your other options are Miami/FSU/Florida, Southern California, Atlanta/Athens, Baton Rouge/NO, Austin, etc. Not to mention all of the SEC and Big 10 schools that may not be in great cities but they provide top notch facilites. Recruits look at everything including location. WVA and Rutgers will never pull in the top recruits. In the big east, only USF and U of L has a chance to really bring top notch recruits in. The others will just have to hope they can find some studs like Ray Rice, Steve Slayton and Pat White flying under the radar.
volstrike3 said:
posted on December 7, 2006 6:30 PM — 71.155.146.93 — link — abuse?
It would be interesting to see if that high school offense could work in the SEC for more than a few games. I am guessing somebody would figure it out pretty quickly and that would be the end of that. I think the DC from USF figured it out.
BamaFanSince3 said:
posted on December 7, 2006 7:00 PM — 24.140.55.49 — link — abuse?
I just saw that Rich Rod will be named the new head football coach at the University of Alabama in a Friday press conference. I don't know how reliable this is but, According to one West Virginia assistant coach, Rodriguez will like to coach the Mountaineers in their upcoming Gator Bowl game before taking over in Tuscaloosa, but no official agreement has been reached yet. Here's the link. Roll Tide!
http://www.southernsportstonight.com/article.asp?IDNum=493Cap Cod Tom '84 said:
posted on December 7, 2006 9:28 PM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
Hey Volstike3:
You've made some really good points and you're "in the know" because as a ex-Tenn Baseballer, you've already gone through the "shows" big programs have for high schoolers. I believe there's alot of "diamonds in the rough" who go unnoticed in high school. This year, Rutgers prooved putting the right combination of players together pays dividends.
There is alot to consider. Much of the recruitment process is politicised leaving holes in the ranking system. And then, there is the good old boy network and pay-offs,player egos, mindful parents, location, state pride, high school coach opinions, etc. All these things come into play.
The world's a big place, Volstrike3. Strange things happen everyday. I say, don't underestimate the little guy, sometimes they can knock you out. This happens every year in NCAA Footbal.
Coach Schiano is a likeable dude. That goes a long way to young kids who need father figures while growing up. Combine this with the unrecognized talent all over America and badda-bing...teams like Rutgers become successful. In addition, coaching and team chemistry also play major roles in individual performance. There is hope for teams like WVU and Rutgers. These teams will succeed against the current "big boys."
Wouldn't you somewhat agree?
Joe said:
posted on December 7, 2006 9:37 PM — 72.185.22.184 — link — abuse?
It will be interesting if it is a "done deal" as Bama fans suggest or it is merely a contract ploy by Rodriguez.
WV despite its wins the last 2 years is not exactly the most desirable location and Bama with its Schizophrenic "always looking for the bear" hair trigger is also not exactly endearing IMHO.
If Bama calls a press conference tomorrow we certainly will know Rich Rod is on his way. However, JMHO if it doesn't occur tomorrow I don't think it is happening. JMHO
Should be "pins and needles" tomorrow.
CROW said:
posted on December 7, 2006 10:16 PM — 74.130.121.56 — link — abuse?
Cape Cod..Got that right BigEast hang tough "together" the football world is changing.
the sec players will be left in the beds wit their sisters while we take over. How bout how the coaches voted ??Oh no no subjective input/crap we really should rely on just the computers to ID the two top teams. What will Ub Meyer say after the "BEAT DOWN"??watch the spin Think the Lizards out of florida/cuba going to get more than they wanted..OSU National Champs by 3 points at home..It was a great Title game already looking to next year..Can you say 16 team PLAYOFF???Bama12Titles said:
posted on December 7, 2006 10:37 PM — 152.163.100.196 — link — abuse?
Rodriguez agrees to become Alabama's next football coach
TUSCALOOSA — University of Alabama officials and West Virginia’s Rich Rodriguez have reached an agreement in principle for Rodriguez to become the Crimson Tide’s next head football coach, two sources close to the search told The Birmingham News tonight.After Rodriguez’s representatives negotiated with Alabama Athletics Director Mal Moore for most of today, Rodriguez has told Alabama officials he is ready to take the job offer he received this morning.
Sources close to the search said Rodriguez will make over $2 million per year with incentives and will have one of the highest-paid coaching staffs in the Southeastern Conference.
After two weeks of searching for a replacement for coach Mike Shula, who was fired Nov. 26, the only aspect of the process left is for Rodriguez to tell his team he is leaving his home state and alma mater.
Alabama officials are confident Rodriguez will sign his deal Friday morning, sources said, because the two sides have agreed on all economic and non economic issues.
Rodriguez followed his scheduled plans for today, even attending a news conference to publicize the Gator Bowl, which features the Mountaineers (10-2) vs. Georgia Tech (9-4) on Jan. 1 in Jacksonville. A source has told The News that Gator Bowl officials have been warned not to expect Rodriguez to coach in the game.
During today’s Gator Bowl news conference, he limited questions to the bowl game and to West Virginia, but would not guarantee he would coach the Mountaineers in the bowl game.
Ian R. Rapoport
shiguy said:
posted on December 7, 2006 10:55 PM — 68.232.181.182 — link — abuse?
personally i think that he's doing it only so that WVU recognizes that he is a high profile coach and that they need to honor some of his requests (expand the stadium please!) i think it would be a dumb decision on his part to take the job. he is secured at WVU for basically the rest of his life baring some rediculous scenario because of his alumni status. bama while offering double the pay the job is very unsecure as shown in the last several coaches. bama is basically looking for him to turn the program around in 1-2 years. even espn recognizes that there is no way that bama is going to get out of the hole they dig untill the settle down with a coach for a little longer than 3 years. rodriguez didn't start out as a wonderfull coach it took time, and i seriously doubt that bama would be willing to put up with that. i can hear it now "ya that offense may work in the big east but it doesn't cut it in the high and mighty SEC" which is bullshit just ask georgia.
posted on December 7, 2006 10:57 PM — link — abuse?
Sources say that Rodriguez has been hired as the next Alabama head coach
EER10 said:
posted on December 8, 2006 1:56 PM — 129.71.238.253 — link — abuse?
Tommie T: WVU was known nationally for their tough @$$ "D" during the NEHLEN days. WVU's lack of defense is just since RR has come to WVU.
BRING BACK THE MOUNTAIN MEN "D"PS to everyone: RR did not build the WVU program. DON NEHLEN DID THAT 28 years ago, and before that BOBBY BOWDEN did a good job as well. People act like WVU has only been playing football for six years....give me a break !!!!
We will be fine...
Cap Cod Tom '84 said:
posted on December 8, 2006 7:06 PM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
Hey Fellas':
I think we've been played like a bunch of suckers!
I guess that's what bloggers get for listening in on press leaks too closely.
Sorry for the crucifixion Rod. Thanks for stickin' with the Big Beast!
BIG BEAST RULES!
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 8, 2006 9:29 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
EER10:
Yeh, I know of Nehlen. He was one of the greatest coaches of all-time with a real long tenure. I know Bowden was there also. The Mounties have always had a winning record as far back as I can remember - and it wasn't because of Pat White or Steve Slaton. One of the problems with having a great offense, that scores with the quickness, is that it keeps the defense on the field for too long. That was USC's problem last year. They'd make an eight minute stand and Reggie Bush would rip off a 65 yard run. Defense right back on the field. Time of possession goes the other way when you make too many big plays. Defense ends up getting tired and looking crappy. They will inhently suffer more injuries also. So, great offense isn't all that. I really prefer the "three yards and a cloud of dust approach". I'm kinda of a ol' Woody Hayes kinda guy. I used to like the ol' days when everybody just chewed up clock.
Tommy T
gatorhippy said:
posted on December 11, 2006 12:18 PM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse?
Big East Fan (#11):
Uhhh....
Rich Rod as the "Father of the Spread Offense"???
Better check your facts...
The first version of the "spread Offense" was Mouse Davis and the Run and Shoot...
From there it was adapted into the different versions seen today...
Meyer and Rod's offenses have little in common other than being speed based and depending on mismatches...
Rod's version is more of a hybrid triple option depending almost solely on a power running attack...
Meyer's relys more on misdirection and mismatches using multiple "threats" on the run to set up the pass...
You might wanna concentrate on actually understanding what is happening on the field, rather than just watching the game...
volstrike3 said:
posted on December 11, 2006 12:43 PM — 216.103.178.34 — link — abuse?
Cape cod tom,
you are right that there are a lot of players that fall through the cracks and a lot of 5 star recruits that don't do anything. You can take those players and put together a good team every 4-5 years or so but that is about it. To be competitive nationally for more than a year at a time, you need to have great players on both sides of the ball 2-3 deep at every position. I don't think WVA or Rutgers will be able to recruit enough great players to compete with the big boys every year. WVA's defense would get picked apart by any of the top 15 teams and Rutgers offense could not keep up with any of the top 15 teams. Both Rich Rod and Schiano would have had a better opportunity to recruit top notch players and compete for a national title at Miami or Alabama.
Zac said:
posted on December 11, 2006 7:09 PM — 65.31.228.13 — link — abuse?
volstrike3, you're outa here!!! Your comments are as opinionated as they come with absolutely no basis in fact. Tell you what though, assuming you were correct, and given WVU's Coach Rod's five year record, it's not bad for not having recruited well. Just goes to show what decent coaching can do with "sub-par product". Why do you think Alabama & Miami were after him?
Say what you want. There are only so many special, and I mean special kids out there. Many of them play for small teams in small towns and don't get noticed, if at all, until they wind up trying out for a college team. As for those ranked by...whoever, in the top 100, there's the top 10; then, there's 11-100 (not really a great deal of difference in skill at that level); then, there's 101-500 (not a great deal of difference there either). There are 117 Div-1 schools out there; each has only so many scholarships available in any given year. The multitude of "Blue-Chippers" are going to be spread over the top 30-40 schools. Even those schools that get five in one year, when plugged into a program, they can't make that much difference to an already good team. Statistically, it doesn't wash.
Case in point: Neither Pat White nor Jerrett Brown (WVU QBs) were five star recruits. Brown was a backup thrust into a key game. WVU still won with him. It's not about being five star. It's about hard work, intellect (willingness to listen and learn), and desire. It's about a love for the game and a willingness to do what it takes as a player to be successful. How many 5-star recruits "start" for Auburn, CA, FL, LSU, MI, OK, OSU, TN, TX, or USC (just to name a few)? Do the research; I think you'll be surprised.
volstrike3 said:
posted on December 11, 2006 7:55 PM — 216.103.178.34 — link — abuse?
Zac,
Fine, your right. Rutgers and WVA will be national powers consistently for the next two decades.
Look at www.football.stassen.com and check the schools with the top winning percentage for the past 5,10,20,30,50,100 years. Notice anything, they are pretty much the same schools. There is a reason for that. It is not my biased, it is a fact.
Zac said:
posted on December 11, 2006 10:17 PM — 65.31.228.13 — link — abuse?
volstrike3: You're a riot, my friend. I once had an Organic Chem Lab professor, name of Agerwal; was from India. He had a sentence for guys like you. "You don't listen."
I don't see anything in my comment about WVU or Rutgers being national powers consistently for the next two decades; though, I am appreciative of the thought. I do believe, however, I implied it doesn't take 5 star recruits to get there; just the right coaching of the right personnel. Anyway, you try my research; I'll try yours; we'll chat.
Now, while I have spent some time in Knoxville, seen the town, the campus, the stadium, I've never attended a game there. I can only imagine it being awesome. You should try a WVU game sometime; you may find you'll like it as well.
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duel crump said:
posted on December 5, 2006 6:26 PM — 204.116.49.175 — link — abuse?rich would be a great catch for Bama..hope it works out..roll tide..