December 18, 2007
Kelly gets new deal at Cincy
Once considered a front-runner for several coaching vacancies, Cincinnati head coach Brian Kelly has signed a new contract with the Bearcats.
The new deal voids the remaining four years on Kelly's current contract. He'll receive a guaranteed salary between $1.2 million and $1.35 million over the next five years as well as performance-based incentives, the school said Monday.
The contract is pending approval by the university's board of trustees.
The timing of this new contract is interesting, I don't think a deal like this can be negotiated in the span of just a few days (although I wouldn't swear to it), so I don't believe it is a reaction to the new vacancy at conference heavyweight West Virginia.
Rather, I suspect this was Cincy's plan all along - as a way of rewarding Kelly for his success at UC. I have to believe this has been in the works for several weeks - prior to the WVU opening, at least.
It will be interesting to see what the exact terms are within the buyout clause and if WVU tries to make a move on Kelly.
Comments:
Zac said:
posted on December 24, 2007 11:41 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
On a related note, Cinci made S MS's HC, Jeff Bower's, last game a tough out. Can you imagine that? After 17 years as HC, yet another winning season, yet another bowl trip, and they can the guy. Maybe WVU should be looking at him, cause this fella has a lot of coaching left in him.
To all: When this message finds you, may it find you and yours well, throughout this holiday season, and throughout the many New Years to come.
Zac said:
posted on December 23, 2007 2:25 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?Hmmm, 4 days this thread's been up and no comments? OK, I'll comment.
AND, they said Kelly would go to Indiana. Could still happen, I suppose, but now I'm doubtin it.