December 31, 2003
Steve Spurrier: Where will he land?
With the resignation of Steve Spurrier from the Washington Redskins, there are a lot of discussions about where he might go if he coaches again. Let's settle a few things up front and then get to the juicy stuff.
First, Spurrier will definitely coach again. It's not just what he does, but it's who he is. Spurrier, from the time he was a high school quarterback, has always taken on the role of coach. He was an "on-the-field" coach as a QB at Florida and has been (like him or not) one of the more successful coaches in the past 15 years. He's coached at every level and he's been successful everywhere he's gone, with the exception of the hopeless, helpless Washington Redskins. Spurrier is, and always will be, a coach.
Second, Spurrier is done with the pros. He got his shot with the Tampa Bay USFL team and now with the Redskins. Neither experience measure up to the successes he had at Duke and Florida, for example. Spurrier is headed back to the college ranks. On a purely logistical note, Spurrier is bound to the Redskins for three more years contractually. Since he resigned, any pro team that wanted to sign him would have to compensate the Redskins and --given his below average showing with the 'Skins-- it's really hard to see an owner giving up draft picks, money, or both to sign the Ol' Ball Coach.
OK, that brings us to the more juicy portion of the discussion: Given that Spurrier is going to coach again in the college ranks, where will he land?
The hot rumor right now seems to be Nebraska, but that's a cop out, in my opinion, because it's really the only "marquee" school with a college vacancy. Spurrier has made it pretty clear that one of his priorities in life is to be able to play golf year round. This may seem stupid to some, but the man just walked away from $15 million with very little to show for it. Spurrier has proven to me (and I don't really like the guy much) that he has come to the conclusion that there is more to life than money. Throwing a huge pile of cash at him isn't going to change his priorities. If he says he wants to golf all year, I believe him. That narrows the potential list down to colleges in the Southeast and Southwest.
I don't think Spurrier will be coaching at all in 2004-2005. Taking a year off to move from DC and just spend time with old friends is definitely in order. Again, Spurrier seems to be pretty sound in his priorities. Strike off the Nebraska job - he ain't going to be a Cornhusker.
Looking at the 2005 football season, it's a little hard to forecast where there might be coaching vacancies, so we're with a list of "possibilities", some obvious and others...well, not so much.
ACC Schools:
With the "new" ACC in full force, it's pretty certain that some schools will be looking to upgrade their coaching staffs to be competetive. Some coaches survived the hot seat over the past few years, but it's likely that the temperature will be turned up even more as the league gets more competetive.
SEC schools:
I think there's a strong loyalty factor that could preclude some of the SEC schools from landing Spurrier. Much like FSU and Miami, Spurrier has some serious issues with a lot of SEC schools and the fans/boosters would have need some intense counseling to welcome him to the sidelines. That being said....
Big XII schools:
Yes, the Nebraska rumors are out there, but let me repeat: It ain't gonna happen. Snow, the timing, and the current roster at NU make the Cornhusker job an easy pass for Spurrier. There is one huge, glaring possibility, though.
PAC10 Schools:
The Pac10 might be the one BCS conference that holds the least promise for Spurrier. (Given that the Big10 doesn't offer the year round golf.) Spurrier has never ventured far from the Southeast and it's really hard to imagine him out west. That being said....
I may be smokin' it big time, but the writing seems to be pretty clear on ye ol' wall from where I'm sitting: When Spurrier starts taking calls, the Longhorns should be the first ones waiting in line.
Comments:
Rob said:
posted on December 31, 2003 2:51 PM — 209.102.181.11 — link — abuse?
Spurrier will hang around Gainesville for about a year saying all the right things and his mere presence will drive Zook crazy. Then, when that job opens, he'll turn it down. I think he's finished coaching but he'll like his name being brought up every time someone gets fired.
posted on December 31, 2003 5:17 PM — link — abuse?Kevin Donahue said:
Kinda cold in PA every once in a while, don't ya think? Penn State is just the kind of school that Spurrier could dominate, but the guy has made clear that his personal priorities matter. For him (as crazy as it may sound), he only wants to go somewhere he can golf every day.
Angela said:
posted on December 31, 2003 7:25 PM — 24.210.46.64 — link — abuse?
Wherever he lands (especially if its at Bama) I'll be glad to pull out my Will Rogers/Steve Spurrier t'shirt. The style is pretty popular, on the front it says "I never met a man I didn't like." Will Rogers - on the back "Will Rogers never met Steve Spurrier." Ah, I love that shirt.
Stuart said:
posted on January 2, 2004 5:06 PM — 66.80.88.117 — link — abuse?
Once you've come from anywhere else on Earth to Florida and then try to leave and be happy...you find that it's damned near impossible. Spurrier is revered like a diety in most of the state (including much of Bowden's Panhandle) and that alone is reason to come back home to Gainesville and the condo at Crescent Beach where he can tee it up with his buddy/neighbor Stoops and tease the Gator faithful with occasional armchair QB/Coach remarks.
Molly Sellers said:
posted on January 2, 2004 8:32 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
A little history check and one might remember when Dooley was coach and turned Athletic Director at Georgia. Also remember Foley wasn't on Spurriers A list, then reflect on how Steve likes to stick it,(Curry fired him at Georgia Tech and Steve had an opportunity to slice and dice him when Curry was at Bama...70-7 I think) and that might make you think he will hang around G-ville, keep the condo at Crescent Beach and control all the Gator programs..Yea you might say crazy but I bet the Ol Coach would smile if he read this one....
Mike said:
posted on January 2, 2004 8:50 PM — 207.156.48.113 — link — abuse?
I am violating every rule of good sense by repeating this story here, and since none of the major media outlets have covered it I know it isn't true. BUT...
The rumor around Tallahassee is that Spurrier has been contacted by both Notre Dame and FSU regarding a position on staff.
As a die-hard FSU fan, I can state with perfect knowledge that I will never watch another game if Spurrier is hired. As tempting as it is to imagine the humbled, penitent Ole Ball Coach working under the man himself in Bobby Bowden I don't think any Nole would be able to stomach it.Vaughn said:
posted on January 2, 2004 9:52 PM — 66.19.77.61 — link — abuse?
I think Kevin put together a pretty good list - he may not be a likeable guy - "You can't spell Citrus without UT...." but I think he WILL coach again as he needs to prove Duke and Florida were not flukes. Texas is a possibility - I was also thinking UCLA in the Pac-10. Plenty of talent out West to choose from.
Joshua Tipps said:
posted on January 3, 2004 1:19 AM — 209.247.222.46 — link — abuse?
Alabama is definitely a possibility because Shula will not cut it and he will get fired.Therefore Spurrier will be all over that and will try to beat Bear Bryant's records.This is a big job and Spurrier could definitely turn this club around.
Pete said:
posted on January 3, 2004 1:37 AM — 68.38.45.1 — link — abuse?
Sorry folks, Spurrier ain't coming to Bama. I find it odd that after one year, which wasn't half as bad as the record might indicate, folks are already guessing Shula will get fired.
If so it won't be for three or four years. Why? Because we lack depth... and will lack it even moreso next year. These are not things unknown to the Athletic Department OR the Boosters. Yes, they'll clammor if 'Bama doesn't have a winning record next year, but Shula won't get fired unless he happens to go to a strip club... and with a wife like his... he SHOULD be shot, not fired, for that.
Anyway... keep dreaming. Spurrier would be a great hire for Bama, but it ain't gonna happen.
Molly Sellers said:
posted on January 3, 2004 7:14 PM — 205.188.209.43 — link — abuse?
I love the way everyone seems to think they know what Spurrier will or will not do, the truth is for all of us is...he loves the element of suprise, he could totally shock everyone and love every minute of it, including landing a job this year. He never does what he says he will do or he would still be a Redskin. He is sitting back at his condo on the beach and enjoying keeping all of us making assumptions and knowing he will do the opposite.
posted on January 3, 2004 7:28 PM — link — abuse?
He never does what he says he will do or he would still be a Redskin. Huh?
The only thing I can imagine you're referring to is his statement to reporters that he "hoped to be back next season" with the Redskins. He met with Snyder, Snyder said get rid of some of the assistants, and Spurrier pretty much told him where to stick the job. I don't see any inconsistencies with that, Molly.
Derek said:
posted on January 3, 2004 8:57 PM — 66.92.168.207 — link — abuse?
Couple other things to keep in mind about Spurrier: he hates the booster club circuit and didn't love recruiting, so I'd be surprised if he went anywhere that didn't already have a successful program and a national (or broadly regional, in the South) recruiting base. That's why Texas would make sense to me, should that happen. But I don't see him rebuilding a program at this point in his career.
Molly Sellers said:
posted on January 3, 2004 9:10 PM — 205.188.209.43 — link — abuse?
Kevin-several of is players were quoted talking about him referring to next season and that they were very suprised about his resignation, and how they found out about it on the radio. Like Grossman found out about him leaving the Gators on espn and was shocked himself, and just two weeks prior to his resignation from Florida he said I dont have any plans to leave this university. Ask them about inconsistencies, Kevin
posted on January 3, 2004 10:01 PM — link — abuse?
We like having ya, Molly. Good grab from the Redskins site. I agree that Spurrier loves to see his name mentioned in the papers. He's always been (in my opinion) something of an ego-maniac.
To the rest of ya, say what you will, but I got dibs on Spurrier going to Texas.
posted on January 3, 2004 10:52 PM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
The only coaching position open right now as Head Coach is Nebraska, with Nutt rejecting their offer. I don't see Spurrier going to Nebraska for many reasons. But the biggest reason is, that the coaching vacancy will be filled before he comes back to college football after next year's season.
Mal said:
posted on January 4, 2004 8:38 AM — 65.80.106.143 — link — abuse?
i do no believe that he'll go to Texas because of one reason: Bob Stoops being at OU. We all know that them two could not and will not ever coach against each other besides it being a national championship game. That's just my opinion, them two just have too good of a friendship.
robert harden brook said:
posted on January 5, 2004 1:29 AM — 64.12.96.6 — link — abuse?
i think spurrier should take some time off from coaching this year. after he has taken a year off he should definitely take the florida job if it becomes open. if zook resigns. but i no that wont happen.i have been a gator fan ever since i can remember, and with him going back to florida would make alot of gator fans happy.
The B said:
posted on January 5, 2004 1:49 AM — 192.122.250.250 — link — abuse?
I am not sure where he would end up, I really wish that there was some way to get this guy back at Florida, .... Can We like put Ron Zook in charge of recruiting, and give Spurrier his chair back, even though he left a bitter taste in the mouth of Florida fans.
Steve, if you hear me be the bigger man and just ask Ron to step aside.The B said:
posted on January 5, 2004 1:49 AM — 192.122.250.250 — link — abuse?
I am not sure where he would end up, I really wish that there was some way to get this guy back at Florida, .... Can We like put Ron Zook in charge of recruiting, and give Spurrier his chair back, even though he left a bitter taste in the mouth of Florida fans.
Steve, if you hear me be the bigger man and just ask Ron to step aside.CHRIS said:
posted on January 5, 2004 4:09 PM — 68.215.42.86 — link — abuse?
S.O.S.
Son, we live in a world that has stadiums, and those stadiums have to be filled by fans with money. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Coach Zook? Spurrier had more success here than you could possibly fathom. You weep for Zook, and you curse the Gators. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Zook's firing, while tragic, would probably save the program. And that Spurrier’s existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, would put the program in the Top Ten. I know deep down in places you don't talk about at parties, you don't want him in that stadium, you need him in that stadium. We use words like honor, tradition, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent building something. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to fans who rise and sleep under the blanket of the very winning program that he can provide, then question the manner in which he can provide it. I prefer you said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a ticket, and stand in the Swamp. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think Spurrier will do!Steven Orr Spurrier
Jason said:
posted on January 5, 2004 5:31 PM — 66.233.177.151 — link — abuse?
Texas fans and alumni are sick of Mack Brown not being able to win big games. They are able to recruit top players on both sides of the ball from anywhere in the nation and if they had a "game day-coach" this season they would have been stronger contenders. Brown is an excellent recruiter but a sub-par game-day coach. Being an Aggie fan, I hope Brown stays, but he was meeting with his superiors today either to hear a resignation or to lay down what they expect next year. I'm afraid this will be Brown's last year at UT, Spurrier takes the year off, and he'll be donning the distasteful burnt orange in 2005.
Jason said:
posted on January 5, 2004 5:31 PM — 66.233.177.151 — link — abuse?
Texas fans and alumni are sick of Mack Brown not being able to win big games. They are able to recruit top players on both sides of the ball from anywhere in the nation and if they had a "game day-coach" this season they would have been stronger contenders. Brown is an excellent recruiter but a sub-par game-day coach. Being an Aggie fan, I hope Brown stays, but he was meeting with his superiors today either to hear a resignation or to lay down what they expect next year. I'm afraid this will be Brown's last year at UT, Spurrier takes the year off, and he'll be donning the distasteful burnt orange in 2005.
John said:
posted on January 5, 2004 7:08 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
I'll have to agree with Jason the aggie on that one. I predict Mack Brown having another 3 maybe 4 loss season in '04, stepping down, and Spurrier coming down to Austin for 2005. And if I had my money on it, I would bet on UT winning a national title within his first 2 years- and just wait until those Horns get their hands on OU ( its payback time, baby!!)
posted on January 5, 2004 7:16 PM — link — abuse?
Agree with Jason? WTF? How 'bout agreeing with the guy who posted it to begin with?! Just kidding, mate. Jason the Aggie (and that Kevin guy!) is obviously a pretty smart dude! :)
Eric said:
posted on January 6, 2004 10:07 AM — 192.44.136.103 — link — abuse?
My odds-on-favorite for Spurrier's next coaching destination is North Carolina. All you Gator fans (me included), he won't go back to Florida. There's a reason he left to begin with, the expectations got too high and he was no longer the underdog. 10-2 felt like a bad season. If he comes back to Florida, so will the unrealistic expectations of Gator fans. Unfortunate for Texas fans, Texas is in the same boat. If he went to Texas, anything but a Conference and/or National Championship would be deemed a disappointment. Where's the challenge in that? I also don't think he relishes the idea of playing his ole' buddy every year (he doesn't like friendly rivalries, see FSU). Carolina, on the other hand, is much closer to what he's looking for (imo). Many would consider Carolina to be a sleeping giant (similar to Florida before Spurrier's arrival in 1990). They have great facilities, a fertile (and somewhat untapped) recruiting ground, and have significantly underachieved over the last decade. Just what Spurrier's looking for, a perinnial underdog. Of course expectations would increase, but no one would expect a Conference Championship, much less a National Championship. If he did either of those things, he would be considered a deity (again). Plus, I think he likes the idea of playing in "new and improved' ACC, where he would get another shot at FSU and Miami.
John said:
posted on January 6, 2004 6:43 PM — 64.12.96.6 — link — abuse?
Sorry bout that, Kevin. I liked your take on the whole deal - great analysis of each team and Spurrier. All this talk about North Carolina is making me sick - i bet UNC will be so hyped up to get Spurrier by next year that Spurrier is going to turn his plane around and head to the heart of Texas. Money won't be an issue here. UT is the most lucrative public university in the country, and has more money than they know what do with - the Longhorns have dibs on anyone they want. And believe me, those fans will roll out the burnt orange carpet for anyone that can beat OU (cough Spurrier cough)
posted on January 6, 2004 9:12 PM — link — abuse?
You're kidding, right, Lloyd? You're measuring a university's ability to spend by seating capacity? Ask Bob Stoops what the capacity is in Norman.
Texas (and Texas A&M, for that matter) have the capacity to spend upwards of $4+ million/year for a football coach, easy. The booster system of both schools is so loaded with millionaires (and billionaires, for that matter) who only want one thing - a national title.
The buyout on Mack Brown is something like $11 million (just to have him leave) and no one has batted an eye at that.
I'm not aware of any school anywhere that will spend the way Texas does (with the possible exception of Texas A&M...and maybe OU).
Jody said:
posted on January 6, 2004 9:18 PM — 209.86.143.55 — link — abuse?
I know I'm reaching, but I wish his over-inflated ego would keep him in the NFL somewhere. I know deep down he wants to prove he can win in the big show... and, frankly, I enjoy watching him fail! Stick with it Steve-O... you might have a winning pro record someday.
Eric said:
posted on January 7, 2004 9:42 AM — 192.44.136.103 — link — abuse?
Money's not the issue for Spurrier anymore. He's looking to prove people wrong. That's what makes him tick, not making more money. So, you have to ask yourself, where can Spurrier prove people wrong? Obviously, this is a rhetorical question as there are tons of possible answers (including going back to the NFL), but Texas is not one of them. People believe (and worse, expect) that he would win at Texas. Again, that's not what floats his boat (I apologize for the extensive use of metaphors). Plus, if he was looking for a Texas-like job, he'd go back to Florida anyway. What can Texas offer him that Florida can't? Be honest Texas fans.
molly sellers said:
posted on January 7, 2004 11:33 AM — 64.12.96.6 — link — abuse?
Kevin. Hey, I am still with you and I had to comment on the seating capacity statement. Everyone in Texas has to buy a new Longhorn hat each year due to the fact the old ones wear ot so easy bc of wearing it all day 24-7. I think they sleep in those things don't they? And thats jiust hats Lloyd..
Eric said:
posted on January 7, 2004 1:23 PM — 192.44.136.103 — link — abuse?
Broski, in my humble opinion, South Carolina offers many of the things he'd be looking for in a college job. Similar to the Tar Heels, USC offers a southern climate, fertile recruiting ground, great facilities, and they too are considered by many to be a sleeping giant. The most glaring negative for South Carolina is they play in the SEC and, worse than that, the SEC East. I don't think he has an interest in coaching somewhere where he would have to play Florida every year. Afterall, he'll always be a Gator at heart.
John said:
posted on January 7, 2004 6:13 PM — 205.188.209.43 — link — abuse?
Actually Lloyd, Texas Memorial Stadium holds an average of 83,500 per game now. The most recent addition and renovation was completed in 1998, and the stadium can have a maximum capacity of 85,000. And in case you haven't heard: Five years from now UT will have the largest stadium in the NCAA. A master plan over the next few years will catapault its capacity to well over 115,000 people. Every game is a sea of orange down in Austin - they will sell more tickets and merchandise than any other school in the NCAA. UT-Austin's entire athletic program is arguablly the most successful and well rounded in the NCAA (consecutive top 10 finishes in football, both men and womens basketball in Final Four, baseball national champs in 2002, etc etc) and rakes in millions and millions every year - don't question me when i say this, Lloyd, UT is the best and most lucratice athletic school in the country.
The cocky Texan attitude will be a perfect fit for Spurrier. UT fans are so tired of Mack Brown that, mark my words, he and his entire coaching staff are gone by December 2004. A clean slate for Steve: the country's best facilities, best recruiting pool, Austin=#1 place to live in US, warm weather, awsome Hill Country golf courses and humongous fan base will def. draw Spurrier down in 2005
posted on January 7, 2004 7:31 PM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
John don't ever believe Texas will have the largest stadium in the NCAA. Michigan will NEVER let that record fall from their hands. It happened once and they promptly added on. BTW, here's the EXACT words from the Texas Longhorns website.
Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
at Joe Jamail Field
Capacity: 80,106that's just like OSU having a capacity of 101,000. But we have had 105,000 in the stadium.
Jody said:
posted on January 7, 2004 8:37 PM — 209.86.136.6 — link — abuse?
He could make 100 times that amount... I could not care less... as long as I get to enjoy watching him fail. Please stay Steve! With you gone, the entertainment factor of the NFL has dropped significantly for me. It's just not the same without you.
Greg said:
posted on January 8, 2004 11:51 AM — 162.6.224.126 — link — abuse?
Although PSU would not provide Spurrier with year round golf. If Joe Pa retires, it may not be so far fetched. Spurrier and Joe Pa are good friends and I've heard the Ol' ball coach quote Joe Pa before. If Joe Pa would ask-- Steve may go there.
John said:
posted on January 8, 2004 7:08 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
Lloyd - Excuse me, but as a UT football season ticket holder for over 30 years, I think I would know the capacity of the stadium. I attended every home game this year as well as Texas-ou game in Dallas (haha if you could call it a game). Trust me, our stadium has a capacity 81, 806. However, every single home game this year has been well over 82,500. And regarding our addition plans - if you would like to see renderings of the finished product, I'll gladly e-mail them to you. By 2010, UT Memorial will dwarf the "Big House" by about 4,000 people. If you want to argue, I can send you official plans and models from the University of Texas athletic dept. In Texas, EVERYTHING is bigger and better - and I dont think our stadiums should be an exception. Our state deserves just a tad larger than the lowely state of Michigan, would'nt you think? We are, after all, the second largest public university in the country with over 50,000 students currently enrolled. UT's alumni base consists of well over 500,000 in the US alone. I dont think there will be any problem filling it to 115,000. "Blue" better make room for some burnt orange
John said:
posted on January 8, 2004 7:09 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
Lloyd - Excuse me, but as a UT football season ticket holder for over 30 years, I think I would know the capacity of the stadium. I attended every home game this year as well as Texas-ou game in Dallas (haha if you could call it a game). Trust me, our stadium has a capacity 81, 806. However, every single home game this year has been well over 82,500. And regarding our addition plans - if you would like to see renderings of the finished product, I'll gladly e-mail them to you. By 2010, UT Memorial will dwarf the "Big House" by about 4,000 people. If you want to argue, I can send you official plans and models from the University of Texas athletic dept. In Texas, EVERYTHING is bigger and better - and I dont think our stadiums should be an exception. Our state deserves just a tad larger than the lowely state of Michigan, would'nt you think? We are, after all, the second largest public university in the country with over 50,000 students currently enrolled. UT's alumni base consists of well over 500,000 in the US alone. I dont think there will be any problem filling it to 115,000. "Blue" better make room for some burnt orange
Nick said:
posted on January 8, 2004 7:12 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
man it sounds like texas is making some noise..........well i like your stuff Kevin. Well thought out. But after hearing about GIbbs return to Washington, im kinda thinking that might make spurrier jump back to florida. but i kinda feel bad for Ut fans, just bc they have waited too long for a NC. Mack brown def. needs to leave soon. I think steve spurrier could go to UF or UT by next year. (if zook and brown get fired)
Molly Sellers said:
posted on January 8, 2004 10:52 PM — 205.188.209.43 — link — abuse?
Jody-I love you and Spurrier loves you even more. Despite the last two years he is still one of the most successful and sought after coaches out there. Thomas J. watson has said, "Success lies at the far end of failures. Reflecting on all of his pre and post game comments here is what he would probably say to you say to you..."Go ahead make my day...hate me and get all your friends to hate me to...Adversity is my greatest motivator"..Cancel Florida off the list-Zook signed a 2 year extension today. And for all of you Zook Lovers and Spurrier Lovers I know you are happy for the Gators, my only regret is that I have noticed the Gator Haters decreasing alot these days (disgusting thought)..wonder why?.....I don't see anybody hating Vanderbilt...Oh well..
Molly Sellers said:
posted on January 8, 2004 11:00 PM — 205.188.209.43 — link — abuse?
Typo...I mean Spurrier Haters...GO GATORS and I'm out of here..now that there is no chance of our hope to return there is no need for me to be discussing where he will go...I will just sit back and wait and love him wherever he goes...well except FSU.
posted on January 9, 2004 12:46 AM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
Trust me, our stadium has a capacity 81, 806.
Then argue with your own beloved university.
LinkWe are, after all, the second largest public university in the country with over 50,000 students currently enrolled.
The University of Texas at Austin has a current enrollment of 49,392 students. Likewise, The Ohio State University has a current enrollment of 54,989.
Now, Michigan's tradition of having the largest stadium dates back farther than you dreaming of the largest stadium. And as I said before, dream all you want, but Michigan WILL renovate to have the largest stadium if UT passes them. And soon after, OSU will renovate theirs to keep it close with Michigan.
Jody said:
posted on January 9, 2004 1:49 AM — 207.69.140.33 — link — abuse?
Well, here's hoping Stevie has a successful golf career "at the far end of" his massive failure in the NFL. Quotes and dollar signs make no difference to me... he can not hack it above the minor leagues. He's an enormously successful college coach. But if the oft-quoted saying that "you are only as good as your last game" is true... then, well, he has a lot to prove now. Stepping back down to the minors isn't exactly the way successful professionals like to go out. Sorry, but I have been waiting many years for that egomaniac to flounder and I have to allow myself to enjoy this while it lasts. Thanks for hearing me out.
Eric said:
posted on January 9, 2004 8:54 AM — 192.44.136.103 — link — abuse?
I think it's intersting that everyone deems Spurrier's time with the Redskins a complete failure when his combined two year record is better than the first two years of Jimmy Johnson, Bill Walsh, Bill Parcells, Tom Landry, Chuck Noll, and Mike Ditka (I'm sure there are more, but I got tired of looking them all up). Give him more time and a better owner and he would succeed in the NFL.
posted on January 9, 2004 9:00 AM — link — abuse?
That's a dumb statement, Eric. That's like someone suggesting that Quincy Carter is a better QB than Brett Farve because his first year numbers were slightly better.
Spurrier is a great coach. Let's make that clear. But, he accomplished zero with a team that was loaded with some of the highest paid talent in the NFL. Spurrier is a great coach who also happened to fail in Washington.
Coach said:
posted on January 9, 2004 10:12 AM — 148.180.103.162 — link — abuse?
Don't count out Kentucky. The current coaching staff may very well be a "band-aid". I agree with you Kevin...Spurrier is going to take a year off to play golf. But if Brooks has another loosing season, the fans will turn sour and will want a winning coach. Spurrier also reminds me of Rick Pitino of basketball. Both go to the Pro league and don't have the success as they once had. Both are obvious motivators for the college athletes.
Liza said:
posted on January 9, 2004 11:43 AM — 216.235.146.42 — link — abuse?
"The bottom line is that wherever Steve Spurrier goes, that team will be the most hated in the country. Keep whining Spurrier."
Danny- you are so right. And as for Steve Spurrier even stepping foot into the state of Alabama- NO WAY! No one hates Spurrier more than Alabama and Auburn- well, maybe Georgia.
Pete said:
posted on January 9, 2004 7:44 PM — 68.38.45.1 — link — abuse?
Let me toss in the other side of the Spurrier @ Alabama coin now... 'Bama fans hated spurrier because he coached at florida and because he won. If we were in the market for a coach right now, or fans would waste NO time trying to lock him up.
If there were a job opening, most of the Alabama Family would welcome Spurrier with open arms and look forward to the day when our non-divisional schedule brought the Gators to Bryant-Denny.
Pete said:
posted on January 9, 2004 7:45 PM — 68.38.45.1 — link — abuse?
Let me toss in the other side of the Spurrier @ Alabama coin now... 'Bama fans hated spurrier because he coached at florida and because he won. If we were in the market for a coach right now, or fans would waste NO time trying to lock him up.
If there were a job opening, most of the Alabama Family would welcome Spurrier with open arms and look forward to the day when our non-divisional schedule brought the Gators to Bryant-Denny.
John said:
posted on January 10, 2004 9:12 PM — 152.163.253.104 — link — abuse?
Lloyd - I think someone spends a little too much time searching for information to back up a riduclous argument... why don't you find a life off your computer, lloyd. Sorry if my estimate was off by 600 people out of 50,000. It looks like you need to find a hobby there, buddy.
Pete said:
posted on January 10, 2004 10:02 PM — 68.38.45.1 — link — abuse?
You know, John, if you worried at all about being, you know, RIGHT you wouldn't have to worry about someone pointing out otherwise.
Besides, as far as I'm concerned you were off by more than 600 -- sure, if there were 50,001 students there you would've been correct technically, but the implication of using "over 50,000" as opposed to "around 50,000" is that there's a decent bit more.
For what it's worth... you probably SHOULD'VE used "Around 50,000" instead.
posted on January 11, 2004 2:55 AM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
I think someone spends a little too much time searching for information to back up a riduclous argument...
Hey John.. why is the arguement rediculous now?
why don't you find a life off your computer, lloyd
Good idea.. I'll have to give that a try someday.
John, in my last post of which I replied to you, did you notice I did not actually argue with you? I only posted a few facts.
posted on January 12, 2004 3:34 PM — link — abuse?
Because I love to keep a fight going, here's the 2003 College Attendance (pdf format only).
schmed said:
posted on January 12, 2004 6:06 PM — 208.248.231.58 — link — abuse?
This just in...
AP Headquarters (AP) - The Associated Press has released its poll of sportwrithers for stadium attendance at football games in 2003. USC was a unanimous number 1 selection in the poll.
The NCAA's computer named Ohio State over Michigan at Number 1 by virtue of having had 8 home games for a share of the title.
Pete Carroll, accepting the award in the AP HQ coffee and transcendental meditation lounge, said "Wow, you people have EVERYthing wired!"
- 30 -
Until I looked at the total games, I dropped jaw to see the East-Coast USC ranked #5. The NCAA should rank them by AVG, not cumulative. The whole system odviously sucks.
posted on January 12, 2004 6:17 PM — link — abuse?
For you, schmed, ranked by average attendance (pdf only).
Eric said:
posted on January 12, 2004 7:05 PM — 216.196.203.169 — link — abuse?
Actually, Kevin, that was an even dumber response to my post. Where in there did I ever say Spurrier was a better coach than any of those other guys I named? Hell, I didn't even suggest that he was a success with the Redskins. My only point was that his coaching tenure at Washington was not "a massive failure", as Jody an others have suggested, and that given time I bet he would ultimately succeed in the NFL.
PS - I'm confused by your Quincy Carter analogy. Are you suggesting that he, too, is a massive failure in the NFL? Or are you saying that the jury's still out on him and that he may turn out to be a decent NFL quarterback one day. If that's the case, then you made my point for me (i.e. it's way too early to pass judgement on either Quincy Carter or Steve Spurrier). If that's not the case, then I'd disagree with your assessment that Quincy Carter is a massive failure in the NFL, too.
posted on January 12, 2004 7:21 PM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
Eric, no matter how "good" Quincy Carter is, he is not accurate enough to be a great NFL Quarterback. I speak as a Dallas Cowboys fan. Steve Spurrier may well have turned out to be a good NFL coach, but his tenure at Washington was a massive failure. I'm sorry.
Eric said:
posted on January 12, 2004 8:12 PM — 216.196.203.169 — link — abuse?
Lloyd, so what, in your opinion, makes it a massive failure? Certainly, not his record. We already established that his record is fairly typical of a new coach. In my opinion, there are two things that have contributed to his tenure being labeled by many as a massive failure: 1) the sheer hatred that many have for the guy (people relish the idea of him failing), and 2) the unrealistic expectations that he went there with. To many, anything other than a Super Bowl would be a massive failure.
posted on January 12, 2004 8:15 PM — link — abuse?
Eric - I'll be brief because you're badly off-topic, so here goes:
his combined two year record is better than the first two years of Jimmy Johnson, Bill Walsh, Bill Parcells, Tom Landry, Chuck Noll, and Mike Ditka (I'm sure there are more, but I got tired of looking them all up).
You state that he was more successful than several hall of fame coaches over the span of two years. There's only one implication that can be made from a statement like that: Spurrier is a more successful coach. Again, that's dumb. You're not comparing like situations at all, yet you imply that (since they were the initial years of each) that we should measure them all equally. Sorry, but it doesn't work that way. Moreover, you cannot further your implication by linking Spurrier's brief tenure with other coaches and presume his future successes. Again, that implication fails all logic.
I suppose you could say that you didn't intend either implication, but I suspect that I might again say that is "dumb" because (without the suggestion) the entire statement is a complete non-sequitur.
As I said before, Spurrier is a great coach. Let's make that clear. But, he accomplished zero with a team that was loaded with some of the highest paid talent in the NFL. Spurrier is a great coach who also happened to fail in Washington.
Perhaps you're correct, maybe I am dumb.
Somehow, some way, you've taken a good discussion on college football coaching possibilities and shot the wheels off completely. If you have an off-topic gripe, email it. No one is interested in watching people measure their wieners. (Especially schmed's, as it is oddly curved and bespeckled!)
posted on January 13, 2004 6:24 AM — 68.66.53.70 — link — abuse?
First off, I'd like to say I agree with you Kevin.. about Spurrier, not schmed's "wiener".
We'll find out this year how far Gibbs gets the team, because Gibbs will ultimately be the judge on how badly Spurrier failed in Washington.
Eric said:
posted on January 13, 2004 3:35 PM — 129.2.4.184 — link — abuse?
just Like Deion Sanders, Steve stole 10 million from the Washington Redskins. He was a big bust in the NFL and will never get another chance we all know and heard it before Not For Long. Steve is the biggest wuss when it comes to weather, football is supposed to be played in any weather condition that is what makes it such a great sport. Watching him on the sidelines during the november games he looked like a cold dog standing by the door waiting to be let in. Good bye Steve I expect you to send the Redskin fans a refund check for your poor excuse has a coach. Welp Have fun BOO BOO BOO
David Taylor said:
posted on April 16, 2004 8:05 AM — 212.199.169.153 — link — abuse?
I was surfing along and came across your website. I really enjoyed it. Thanks! This site is very informative. I hope to see more in the near future, Wishing you all the best!
Jack said:
posted on May 5, 2004 9:24 PM — 68.89.179.125 — link — abuse?
It probably wont happen but i would really like to see him go to Texas A&M but it isnt go to happen but you know anything is possible.
Cause Franchione has turned the team into crap.
last year was the first season the aggies actually had a losing record in over 15 years.Andy said:
posted on May 14, 2004 2:44 PM — 199.44.233.44 — link — abuse?
Steve will come back to the University of Florida. Look at the facts. If an NFL team were to want Steve, they'd have to pay out his remaining contract with the Skins... no matter when he went back to the NFL. Plus in all of his post NFL-coaching career quotes, you could tell he was very disenchanted with the NFL, it's players, and definitely it's owners. So, Zook signed an extension. Big deal. Look at the reasons why. Spurrier resigned from the NFL and Zook's already shaky existence at UF became even more shaky. So Jeremy Foley (UF AD) gives zook an extension to send a message to the recruits that Ron will be around for their 4 years at Florida. Zook can recruit, there's no denying that, he just can't coach worth a flip. So after another expected mediocre year at UF (by UF standards) and Zook will be fired. There have been grumblings from the boosters since he got there and 3 crappy years in a row wont fly. His contract will be easy to pay out. Hell, I'm sure all UF fans would gladly pitch in to pay it off if it guaranteed he'd be fired. Also, Steve said he "wants to hang out for a year and 'see what happens'" (i.e., Zook getting canned). Spurrier has family all throughout the state of Florida, He's UF alumn, heck, he still owns a house in Gainesville. Plus when he was with Washington, he said he missed the "big game atmosphere of college ball..." Besides Texas A&M and Oklahoma, The Longhorns don't have nearly the big games as UF does (FSU, UTenn, UGA, etc...) Steve loved ruling the SEC and would love to do it again. He was a God in Gainesville and will be the Savior once again next year!
posted on May 20, 2004 4:12 PM — 69.73.43.133 — link — abuse?
All Spurrier has to do to see how he would be welcomed back to Florida is look at how Joe Gibbs was welcomed back to the Redskins.
Nowhere else would give him the kings welcome, and attention Florida would.
Aside from that, he hates cold weather. It interfears with his year round golf plans.
As a final note, I was a Redskins fan before Spurrier, and I will be one after Gibbs.
Hail to the Redskins.
posted on May 21, 2004 1:13 PM — 65.116.13.239 — link — abuse?
"Nowhere else would give him the kings welcome, and attention Florida would."
I disagree. There are dozens of schools with bad to mediocre football teams that would roll out the red carpet for Spurrier and treat him like some sort of football messiah.
Based on things I've read recently, and gut feeling, I predict Spurrier ends up (in order of likelihood):
a) never coaching again
b) back at Florida
c) at TexasNick Heimann said:
posted on May 25, 2004 4:38 PM — 69.150.154.57 — link — abuse?
Spurrier just better stay over there in the SEC because as soon as he comes over here to the
Big 12 ( UT ) he will get trampled by the Big 12 defenses ( OU, KSU, Nebraska ). But if he wants to coach at UT bring him on. I am sure Stoops would be happy to beat another Texas coach.Russell Smith said:
posted on June 9, 2004 8:58 AM — 12.173.142.142 — link — abuse?
Spurrier has one fine place to go. Georgia Tech! Tech has had nothing but problems with the head coaching position sice O'Leary messed things up. I know you would probably say the program doesnt fit Spurrier but niether did Washington or the NFL. Truth is Gailey is bad and Tech needs help now, especially with true freshman Reggie Ball under center. The weather is nice most of the time and having the opportunity to coach in the ACC which is fastly becoming the top conference in the NCAA along with the SEC is one that would entice him. Plus he will still have the chance to beat up on FSU, Georgia, and Miami, but without the almost seemingly yearly loss to Tennesee. Tech and FSU is a big rivalry although they aren't on Tech's schedule. Of course there is old fashioned hate between Tech and Georgia. If not Tech then Duke but Duke just got a solid coach. I dont see why this doesn't happen in the next two years.
Russell Smith said:
posted on June 9, 2004 9:00 AM — 12.173.142.142 — link — abuse?
Spurrier has one fine place to go. Georgia Tech! Tech has had nothing but problems with the head coaching position sice O'Leary messed things up. I know you would probably say the program doesnt fit Spurrier but niether did Washington or the NFL. Truth is Gailey is bad and Tech needs help now, especially with true freshman Reggie Ball under center. The weather is nice most of the time and Alpharetta, GA has more golf courses per square mile than anywhere on earth. Having the opportunity to coach in the ACC which is fastly becoming the top conference in the NCAA along with the SEC is one that would entice him. Plus he will still have the chance to beat up on FSU, Georgia, and Miami, but without the almost seemingly yearly loss to Tennesee. Tech and FSU is a big rivalry although they aren't on Tech's schedule. Of course there is old fashioned hate between Tech and Georgia. If not Tech then Duke but Duke just got a solid coach. I dont see why this doesn't happen in the next two years.
Maurice said:
posted on June 9, 2004 12:43 PM — 208.17.179.33 — link — abuse?
Spurrier will coach either at Pitt or Syarcuse or South Florida
Why? B/C Pitt and SU sucks and Spurrier can turn South Florida into a powerhouse in Western Florida If Spurrier wants to be in a BCS game every year he needs to coach a Big East teamtarheelnation said:
posted on June 16, 2004 6:43 PM — 209.247.222.43 — link — abuse?
Just like he has Texas, Mack Brown brought Carolina to within sight of the promised land...but never could deliver. The Carolina faithful are hungry and tired of waiting. Unless Bunting delivers this year(and maybe even if) the money will be there for Spurrier...even with that dark blue stain.
He has ties to North Carolina, likes the state; and it will be hard for others beat our ace in the hole.... PINEHURST.Nick H said:
posted on June 18, 2004 5:24 PM — 69.150.154.57 — link — abuse?
Sorry Dave ol' Steve will coach again and will sometime soon. He has to much pride not to come back and redeem himself. I agree with you though that he will either go back to Florida or UT. Me being a Sooner fan I say bring him on. He doesnt see defenses like the Big 12 has. He will be back!
Jarrod said:
posted on October 14, 2004 3:51 PM — 24.110.13.104 — link — abuse?
Florida fans every where are praying for the day when coach zook gets fired!! Spurrier is going to go to florida in the 2005-2006 season, and not only bring back the university of florida legacy, but he is going to got 12-0, and win the national title. GO GATORS!!!! And please visit FireRonZook.com
vollife said:
posted on October 18, 2004 1:16 PM — 168.12.253.66 — link — abuse?
all this talk of magor schools hiring the most hated gator are missing the point. steve will go to vandy. he still gets good weather(golf most of the off season), he gets to go home (the vols will never and mean never hire him) and he gets to gloat at taking a pansy to a power house in the sec. Ego will outrule money till the texas tech job opens up (bobby knight and steve spurrier at the same school) and they are admitted to the sec
IM4G8TRS said:
posted on October 18, 2004 3:09 PM — 68.115.175.90 — link — abuse?
Sorry, Bob. Too cold for an old dog to become a new dawg. Keep an eye on the SEC. Great weather, great facilities, depth at all positions and the chance to again embarass UT (since Zook can't get the job done) all adds up to only one place: South Carolina!
Old Coach Holtz will go take a well deserved vacation and the 'Ol Ball Coach will step in and once again dominate the coaching ranks of college football.
Hail to the head Gamecock!
Nate said:
posted on October 21, 2004 7:21 PM — 24.167.164.8 — link — abuse?
Steve Spurrier is a legend in Florida and i hope with everything he will take that joke Zook's job.... Spurrrier is the only coach that could lead the Florida Gators back to dominance.. and he should return soon while they still have Leak and Fason....
ArnieP of Louisville said:
posted on October 24, 2004 8:57 AM — 12.202.156.66 — link — abuse?
Being from Kentucky(home of the SEC's top BOTTOM Dog..in the eastern or western division)and having a coach(Brooks) that apparently ask the boys to get rested up and take a nap at half-time..It sure would be nice to welcome Spurrier(and Co.) to the Bluegrass
posted on October 24, 2004 7:32 PM — 66.186.252.13 — link — abuse?
I wouldn't be "surprised" if Spurrier went back to Florida, but I don't consider it highly likely. My first instinct is that he's never going to coach again. My second instinct says he'll go to Austin to coach the Longhorns. Going back to Florida would be third or fourth.
I think it's kind of funny when people say things like "Spurrrier is the only coach that could lead the Florida Gators back to dominance.. "
Come on. There are plenty of great college football coaches out there, and any one of them could turn UF into a powerhouse again. Indeed, one of the very reasons I think he would decline to go back is you Gator fans have elevated him to Messiah status...he could never possibly live up to the expectations that would be on him if he returned.
Colleen said:
posted on October 25, 2004 10:45 AM — 128.227.82.228 — link — abuse?
Well, Ron Zook has been fired. Don't try going to the Gainesville Sun's website. Channel 20 has the info. There will be an official announcement around noon, probably. Should be interesting. They said he will be finishing out the season but won't return.
Please note that all comments are subject to the Fanblogs Comment Policy.
Jeff said:
posted on December 31, 2003 12:50 PM — 24.159.173.87 — link — abuse?Spurrier to UNC if Bunting goes is another interesting possibility after the year off...