December 16, 2007
Michigan hires Rich Rodriguez
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Original Post:
The Detroit News - citing "sources with knowledge of the search" - says that Michigan president Mary Sue Coleman and AD Bill Martin met with WVU coach Rich Rodriguez on Friday in Toledo. The Detroit Free-Press confirmed the meeting with two people at Michigan.
A private plane flew from northern Ohio to Morgantown, W.Va., to pick up Rodriguez early in the morning. He was flown to Toledo and then returned late in the afternoon. When he touched back down in Morgantown, Rodriguez declined comment to the Associated Press, other than to say he was going to practice.
When asked whether he had met with Michigan, Rodriguez declined comment.
FlightAware confirms the Piper Cheyenne 2 left Morgantown at 7:30am on Friday and returned at 5:07pm.
When asked about the meeting early on Friday, Mountaineers AD Ed Pastilong declined any knowledge of the report.
"I don't know anything about it," Pastilong told the Charleston Gazette. "The only person who can clarify that is Rich Rodriguez. We recently put a strong contract in place with Rich. We made a strong commitment to him, and he made a strong commitment to us."
However, Tom Dienhart of the Sporting News reports that Michigan has received permission to interview to Rodriguez, so perhaps Pastilong's denial was just a smokescreen.
Coach Rod flirted with Alabama last year before electing to stay at West Virginia. At the time, sources reported that he turned down a $2 million contract with the Crimson Tide.
Rodriguez makes $1.8 million at WVU on his current contract - which runs through 2013 - with a $4 million buyout.
But... this is the Michigan coaching search... so what does all this mean? Brian at MGoBlog tries his hand at reading the tea leaves.
A previously reliable source, but just one, says this is very close to being done. FWIW. Given the way this has gone I'll believe it after the press conference.
I'm on the record as being a HUGE fan of Rich Rodriguez. I thought he would have been a great hire at Alabama last year and I think he would be a great hire at Michigan.
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Update - 5:15p
MGoBlog says it is all not to be - Coach Rod is staying at WVU.
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Update - 12/16/07 2:00p
The Charleston Gazette-Mail is now confirming that West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez told his team that he has accepted the Michigan head coaching position and will be leaving the Mountaineers.
In an early afternoon meeting with his football team, Rodriguez announced he was leaving to become the head coach at Michigan.
Rodriguez walked into a scheduled 1:30 p.m. meeting with his team and emerged 10 minutes later without comment and walked briskly back to his office. Shortly thereafter the players began to file out of the meeting room, somber-faced and generally without comment.
Rodriguez's wife Rita, was seen crying both before and after the meeting, but would not confirm the announcement for reporters.
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More details are now coming out about the Michigan hiring Rich Rodriguez as head football coach:
Rodriguez, 44, informed his West Virginia team on Sunday afternoon he would be leaving to take over the Wolverines. Several sources close to the Michigan search confirmed the hiring Sunday.
Michigan is expected to make the hiring official in a statement this afternoon, sources indicated.
Associate athletic director Bruce Madej confirmed to a Free Press report this afternoon that Rodriguez would be the Wolverines' 17th football coach.U-M has scheduled a news conference for 9 a.m. Monday on campus.
Rodriguez had a 10-minute meeting with his team early this afternoon, told the 11th-ranked Mountaineers that he was leaving for Michigan and went back to his office, according to West Virginia media reports.
His players had little comment but looked downtrodden.
Also, the country's top quarterbacking prospect told Superprep.com this afternoon that Rodriguez had called with similar news.
"I just spoke to Coach Rodriguez about 10 minutes ago and he told me he is going to Michigan," the QB, Terrelle Pryor, told Superprep.com. “He said they made him an offer he can't refuse."
Interesting to see the 'Coach Rod effect' already in action for UM. Pryor was a big-time lean for WVU and now he's putting Michigan on his list. There are reports that Pryor actually got the call before Rodriguez told his Mountaineer team. That would be pretty interesting if it is true. He's exactly the kind of player that Coach Rod will want at UM, because his abilities fit perfectly with the coach's scheme. Other prospects are sounding off, too.
The Free Press goes on to report that Coach Rod met with WVU twice on Saturday before accepting Michigan's offer on Sunday.
Rodriguez will not coach the Mountaineers or the Wolverines in their bowl games.
Over at MGoBlog, it's Peanut Butter Jelly time.
Comments:
College Pigskin Fan said:
posted on December 15, 2007 1:13 PM — 4.244.211.233 — link — abuse?
Just because the two top offensive players are going to leave doesn't mean the program can't replace them. Rich Rodriguez is a great recruiter, and will have no problem finding talent to fill the shoes of White and Slaton.
Kevin, I'm disappointed that you didn't point out another part of this story. Last year Michigan hired West Virginia basketball coach John Beilein, and now Michigan is after their football coach.
With Miles, Schiano, Grobe, and Kelly are off of their list, they're starting to get to the end of their rope.
If Michigan makes the hire, it's a steal, if they don't hire Rodriguez, Gary Pinkel of Missouri would be their next option. If not him, they'll be in a fix since they're falling behind in recruiting.
schmed said:
posted on December 15, 2007 2:15 PM — 74.230.198.110 — link — abuse?
The whistle hasn't blown yet, so this isn't piling on Kevin...
I'm on the record as being a HUGE fan of Rich Rodriguez. I thought he would have been a great hire at Alabama last year and I think he would be a great hire at Michigan.
Why does RR need to go to Michigan to become a coaching legend? What would be so gudauffel wrong with staying at WVU and building it up like the Rocknes, Bryants, Dietzels, Majors, Royals and Bowdens did at their schools? Wouldn't it be that much more satisfying when he retires to look back at what he built without most of the credit going to Bo?
gatorhippy
posted on December 15, 2007 2:28 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
said:
I'd just like to point out I proposed this four days ago on the Miles Answers Michigan Question thread...
Personally, I feel this situation is a little different than the Bama one last year for RR...
RR saw the difficulty with the loony fan base in Tuscaloosa and backed out after receiving the extension and pay raise offer in Morgantown...
While Bama has money; they don't have Michigan money and the fan base is a little more grounded in Ann Arbor than the Bear zealots in T-Town...
In the end, I think that RR realized how heavy the "Houndstooth Crown of Thorns" would be at Bryant-Denny (to quote Angry Eer over at LWS)...
Add in the great job RR has done with the spread at WVU and the fact that Martin was more than likely left impressed with the damage the spread caused the Wolvie defense in their first two game this season...
It starts to make sense for the search to turn in this direction...
However, I'm still not fully convinced that Miles is totally out of contention for this spot either...
posted on December 15, 2007 2:43 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?War Eagle Atlanta
said:
Good point, GH. I didn't want to go there, but there is no doubt in my mind that Tuscaloosa is the toughest coaching position in the country.
I also get the feeling that we haven't heard the last of Miles being on the Michigan Christmas list. But if he left now, he'd make Bobby Petrino look like Dale Carnegie by comparison...
1st_and_NOLE
posted on December 15, 2007 3:13 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse? said:
RR is currently coaching at his alma mater. He's said in the past he's been very happy there, he feels like he can win a NC there, and last year WVU gave him a raise and promised to improve facilities when he was flirting with Bama to keep RR in town.
Now, only a year later, he's flirting with another job. To me, it's disrespectful to your alma mater to constantly flirt with other jobs and kinda hold this over WVU's head that he could easily go somewhere else.
If he's happy at WVU then there's no need to talk to anyone else. Seems like he's trying to leverage another raise out of this.
posted on December 15, 2007 5:32 PM — link — abuse? said:
Yeah, you guys, I think the Coach Rod was just the next logical step in the Michigan search. Yes, Beilein made the WVU->Michigan jump and was rumored to be involved (at least in the conversation somewhere) in this instance.
But -- all this is for not, it would appear. MGoBlog says that Coach Rod is staying at WVU... to build a legacy and whatnot.
gatorhippy
posted on December 15, 2007 5:52 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
Yup, Kev...
I saw that post just now...
If they in fact have gotten it worked out...
It would pose this question:
How many times can RR shake down his alma mater for more change before they decide to just let him go?
Zac said:
posted on December 15, 2007 7:59 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
Where to begin; that's the hard part. OK, I don't like it; that's the easy part. Basis: GatorH & 1st & Nole said it best. This whole ploy amounts to nothing more than another shake-down. *Give me what I want, or I'll go somewhere else.* I'm not saying coaches shouldn't talk to other schools or listen to what their admin's have to offer. But, at least let it be above board instead of trying to treat it like it's a state secret.
What I don't understand is the "WHY". The facilities at WVU are among the newest, state-of-the-art facilities anywhere. But, that wasn't enough, because it wasn't "the world according to Rich Rod". He just has to be able to offer his recruits more.
Then there's the money. He currently earns a cool 1.8 mil/year. But, WAIT!!! Petrino is getting 2.85 mil/year, and Saban is getting 4! So, SHOW ME THE MONEY!!! What's the man going to do with 1.05 mil more than he already has, buy another boat?!?
I like what Rich Rodriguez has brought to Morgantown. I'm impressed with the recruiting base he's established as well as the record he's put together, thus far. Slaton & White, you ask; he's got Devine and Brown, not to mention the promise of another solid recruiting class. He'll win another 10 games next year; a NC within 3 years is certainly reasonable.
Honor & Loyalty, what ever happened to those 2 virtues? Are coaches like Bobby Bowden & Joe Paterno a thing of the past, a dying breed; step into a job for between 5 & 10 years, then hop on the next plane to the next step up?
That would be a good thread, Kev. Which existing head coaches have the longest tenure? Why are coaches getting fired after a few years despite fair to good results, or jumping ship to seemingly better jobs after 5-10 somewhere else? Are fan bases that impatient or have coaches developed Jimmy Johnson syndrome?
Back to GatorH's question, how long will WVU's AD, Ed Pastilong, put up with this before finally saying enough is enough? You know what they say, go the well too often…
Tom Blogical
posted on December 15, 2007 9:57 PM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
It's OK, Michigan fans. The one coach you've always wanted to return is available. I'm sure John Cooper is within your budget, too.
posted on December 16, 2007 2:08 PM — link — abuse? said:
The Charleston Gazette-Mail is now confirming that West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez told his team that he has accepted the Michigan head coaching position and will be leaving the Mountaineers.
In an early afternoon meeting with his football team, Rodriguez announced he was leaving to become the head coach at Michigan.
Rodriguez walked into a scheduled 1:30 p.m. meeting with his team and emerged 10 minutes later without comment and walked briskly back to his office. Shortly thereafter the players began to file out of the meeting room, somber-faced and generally without comment.College Pigskin Fan said:
posted on December 16, 2007 3:20 PM — 4.245.16.194 — link — abuse?
Since Rodriguez is a West Virginia native, and I believe in the past he has said that West Virginia was his dream job, this really suprises me.
This is another example of a head coach signing an extension or "i'm not leaving", and then the next year he heads out the door. I guess some guys have it in their DNA to look for another challange, or a bigger pay check.
Who does West Virginia go after for their next head coach? I'm sure they won't have any trouble finding a replacement.
M GO BLUE said:
posted on December 16, 2007 4:05 PM — 216.46.212.236 — link — abuse?
Zac.......I feel bad for you.......he is heading to a school that is failing as of late......but I do hope West Virginia finds another great coach.
I am in shock.........it has'nt sunk in yet, that we might actually run a spread offense soon........
GO BLUE !!!
gatorhippy
posted on December 16, 2007 4:25 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
K-Hue (#23):
Once he got that team restocked...
With RR leaving; White/Slaton in the draft is a pretty good possibility and Devine transferring is another one...
With some graduation, that leaves the cupboard pretty bare in M-Town...
I personally am shocked Rich won't be coaching the bowl game...
Shouldn't there be as much outrage over that as there has been over Petrino bailing on the Dirty Birds...
VTBobb said:
posted on December 16, 2007 4:30 PM — 70.22.118.229 — link — abuse?
I'm surprised, and feel bad for the WVU fans. One of the main reasons VT has been able to maintain it's competitiveness was being able to retain Beamer and most of his assistants AFTER he built them into a succesful program. Of course, it helped that Tech stuck with him when he went 24-40-2 (0.375!) in his first six years. There's something to be said for loyalty. I thought RR had some, and a little more depth, too.
TE
posted on December 16, 2007 6:23 PM — 70.180.43.182 — link — abuse? said:
G-Hip,
You love being right? So how did you feel about your feeling that Miles wasn't out of it?
LOL...Just pulling your chain...But, much like the conspicuously high number of 'Bama fans who thought likewise, you were all wet. So were idiots like that Jemele chick who got the job ESPN fired Jason Whitlock for (according to him, for not being "Bo Jangly" enough), as well as Mitch Albom, and Terry Foster and the Detroit Freep, and the rest of the Maize & Blue Spacecake eaters...
Oh, and G-hip...Let's not quibble here...Ann Arbor is paying 2.5, which is 1.5/year less than Bama. Alabama will never...never EVER be outbid for a football coach. Ever.
Michigan's got more money. On this we agree. But, Alabama's priorities are far more skewed (just like-to a lesser degree, of course-the rest of the institutions of higher learning who are members of the SEC) and they'll never be afraid to outbid a team or program, even Michigan...
Zac said:
posted on December 16, 2007 7:17 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
Well, I think we can finally put an end to all the speculation. Miles is definitely staying at LSU. That is, unless Rich Rodriguez proves he and his system can't beat OSU at least once over the next 5 years. Then, you just might see MI go after Miles again. I sincerely hope for Rich Rod's sake; that doesn't happen. I can guarantee; he won't be welcomed back to WVU.
MGoBlue (Post 22), I wish I could congratulate you. And, for the sake of MI, its team and its fans, I hope he's successful. Unfortunately, he still makes less than Petrino and Saban. What's to stop him from booking on MI in 5 or 6 years if he is successful?
VTBobb (Post 25), this actually hurts more than the Pitt loss. So much for honor, integrity, and loyalty. Coaches like Beamer, Bowden, Nehlan, and Peterno are the exception, not the rule.
I've heard a lot of names from Terry Bowden, to Steve Dunlap, to Ron Zook. (Where's CoonDog??? What's the name of that coach at Boise St?) Tell ya wat. MI hired Bielein. No worries, mate. WVU got Huggins. MI just hired Rodriguez. Now, who would be a logical step up (equivalent to Bielein to Huggins) from Rich Rod? Any further speculation, guys???
Yo!!! WarEagleA, I need to get my mind off this. Ya got a car for me yet???
gatorhippy
posted on December 16, 2007 8:47 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
Jai has some shots from the M-Town Airport of the Rodriguez's blowing town...
They certainly aren't wasting anytime getting the hell out of there...
I can't say I blame them...
RR has gotta be a marked man right now in the Land of Immolated Sofas...
gatorhippy
posted on December 16, 2007 8:49 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
Oops...
Forgot to give you guys Losers with Socks...
Tom Blogical
posted on December 16, 2007 9:05 PM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy:
You also predicted OSU would be undefeated until UM ruined their season. Wrong twice in one statement. So I'm saying you're more like a broken clock until proven otherwise. :-)
Zac said:
posted on December 16, 2007 9:48 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
GA Boy (Post 47), thanks for the sentiments. The bad news: WVU's not the only one going through it. The good news: WVU is in good company.
So, Mr. Tebow, your mission, should you choose to accept it... Oh, yeah, that's right; you already have. Carry on.
Tom Blogical
posted on December 16, 2007 9:59 PM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
This was a big loss for WVU. Zac, who would you like them to pursue as RR's replacement?
gatorhippy
posted on December 16, 2007 10:16 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#52):
I never stated that OSU would lose that game nor they would be undeafeated when they met Michigan...
My actual words were...
"This could shape up to be a classic OSU season...
Undeafeated until losing to Michigan.."
Note the word could in there, Tom...
I'm careful about toeing the line between predictions and proposals...
As there is a big difference between the two...
As if you'll take a quick peek up the page you'll see that I stated that I proposed RR to Michigan...
Please don't attempt to put words or claims in my mouth...
T-Mac
posted on December 16, 2007 10:51 PM — 66.78.139.117 — link — abuse? said:
Call T-Mac crazy.
T-Mac has been called much worse!
T-Mac thinks Mike Shula would be a great fit at West VA.
The only thing Shula has to do is be more AGGRESSIVE in his style of Coaching.
AGGRESSIVE on Offense.
That was his problem in his 4th and LAST year at Bama.
He wasn't aggressive in his Offensive play-calling/schemes.
Mike Shula inherited Squat when he got on board.
In his 3rd year at the Capstone he was 10-2 and had the Tide ranked at #3 in the Nation with a Cotton Bowl victory as well.
With the right staff in place, Coach Shula could be a great one. It's in his blood, he just has to not try and please all the people, all the time! Can't do it!!!
Get him out on the recruiting trail,get a good staff in place, and get in Morgantown like you are the law and Mike Shula could be very successful.
This is a Coach who T-Mac mos def believes should get a 2nd chance.
Let's all be REAL here.
This was a very YOUNG guy who was in his VERY 1ST Head Coaching job...
At Alabama.
No, no pressure there at all.
Just some thoughts from T-Mac.
Shout out to Brodie Croyle. Looked good today against the Titans. It would be nice if his rec's could catch a football.
T-Mac has a bowl of cereal to eat.
T-Mac will post when he can.
*T-Mac approved this message.
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 1:18 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy (#56):
"Note the word could in there, Tom..."
Wow. Way to go out on a limb there. I sure am impressed. ;-)
"Please don't attempt to put words or claims in my mouth..."
LMAO!! You're so full of it. You believed it would happen...and once again, that perception of a "classic" OSU season was shot to hell.
If you're not claiming anything, why are you breaking your arm patting yourself on the back for "proposing" Coach Rod to Michigan in an earlier thread?
"Proposal" or not, you're still a broken clock until proven otherwise. Keep the "proposals" coming, and we'll see.
Looking forward to more "proposals" with lots of hedging from you in the future.
(:-D)
Diggs the Mountie said:
posted on December 17, 2007 1:32 AM — 76.114.231.180 — link — abuse?
Alright guys.....I usually don't do this sort of thing but I'm so pissed about the RR situation right now I could care less. This info I'm going to post is from very good sources at WVU.
Keep in mind this is someone elses info and here it is.
1-word has it that he had talked to arkansas before the pitt game, or at least had some contact with them...this comes from a pretty good source...would say that he was looking around...am told pastilong had no inclination he was even looking...and i don't think that was meant as a slap at pastilong...it is said rodriguez blew off the sports department's christmas party, which raised some eyebrows, the night before the friday trip to toledo, but even then no one in athletic hierarchy knew anything about meecheegun, or only a select few did...i've been told by more than one person that pastilong had no idea that rodriguez was talking to meecheegun right up until friday...this, of course, after wvu and supporters ponied up big-time last year and he said he was at wvu for a long time...
2-apparently rodriguez was upset that huggins got a lot of immediate love from wvu folks and was getting a lot of financial support...i had heard he was miffed that the new basketball facility was in the works so quickly after huggins arrived and complained to pastilong about it more than once...something like how does huggins get this immediately when i have to bust my butt to get things, that kind of churlish behavior...he neglected to note, apparently, that the facility is being built with private funds and was not coming from wvu funds...like vernon said earlier, it seems rodriguez perhaps resented the power of huggins presence around wvu...someone mentioned to me last week that they thought rodriguez might be a little jealous of huggins, and i kind of brushed it off, but hey, maybe they were right...
3-in that light, rodriguez is said to have wanted more control over the money that was promised when he threatened to leave last year to alabama, the implication i took being that he didn't like to share and play well with others...rodriguez is said to have become more and more demanding and somewhat of a demagogue who was increasingly self-absorbed...some people i know well who once were totally in his corner had become a little tired of his act even as he had wvu in the top five and in line to play for a national title...one of them called me yesterday and said, in the course of the conversation, "he's not the angel he makes himself out to be." i won't elaborate on what subject regarding rodriguez came up to bring that answer, but perhaps you might be able to guess if you think about it... ;)
the overlying them from what i've been told is that rodriguez began to take himself very seriously and became increasingly arrogant and hard to deal with...
5-from this point on, it is my opinion, based on what i've heard from others...
my guess is that the pitt loss crushed him and his ego wouldn't let him stay and have to deal with such an abject failure...so he started fishing...he was not going to take any criticism for the pitt collapse, either, even if he is the one person in history who got outcoached by dave wannstadt...not at wvu, where he apparently believed he was doing them the favor and didn't feel he had to answer to anybody, anytime...
that's why he has no compunctions about contacting current wvu recruits and enticing them to follow him to meecheegun...many coaches, including huggins when he left kansas state, go out of their way not to take recruits with them when they change jobs...this would seem to be the ethical thing to do, especially when leaving the school from which you graduated and played and is your home-state school...rodriguez seems to have no problem with any of those ethical considerations, due to, i submit, his previously mentioned self-absorption...
but even without the pitt loss, i think he would have bailed sooner than later...he believes there are bigger fish to fry and that he's a pretty good fisherman...imo, he is still very hungry, but not very humble...
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 1:42 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
Diggs the Mountie (#60):
"my guess is that the pitt loss crushed him and his ego wouldn't let him stay and have to deal with such an abject failure...so he started fishing..."
That same thought crossed my mind when I heard he took the UM job, but I didn't really dwell on it. Very interesting that a WVU fan would have the same thought.
shiguy said:
posted on December 17, 2007 2:20 AM — 24.126.91.75 — link — abuse?
terry bowden has already expressed an interest in the new coaching job at WVU. since he actually did got to school at WVU i would love to see him as the head coach. it's really one of the most logical choices in terms of coaches right now since WVU and the fans like to stick within.
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 6:34 AM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#59):
You believed it would happen...
No...
If I believed it would happen, I would have stated so...
Why are you breaking your arm patting yourself on the back for "proposing" Coach Rod to Michigan in an earlier thread
I'm not...
You seem to be the one making a big deal out of it, not me...
Once again, please don't attempt to put words or claims in my mouth...
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 7:10 AM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse? said:
TE (#37):
You might be right on that Bama/Mich money...
Word is that RR is paying 1 million of the 4 million needed for the buyout of his WVU contract...
In addition it's also said that he left for only roughly 400 grand more a year...
Not really a HUGE raise...
Obviously not gospel, but seems to make sense...
If true, it certainly indicates how badly RR wanted out of WV and how poorly his relations had become with the Athletic department...
I'm looking forward to his Michigan press conference today...
Maybe we'll get some answers from the horse's mouth...
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 8:15 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
"No...If I believed it would happen, I would have stated so..."
LOL!! Ummmm...yeah. Sure.
"You seem to be the one making a big deal out of it, not me...Once again, please don't attempt to put words or claims in my mouth..."
I'm not doing anything but sitting back and enjoying the gatorhippy show. Nothing more, nothing less. ;-)
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 8:34 AM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#65):
I'm not doing anything but sitting back and enjoying the gatorhippy show. Nothing more, nothing less.
Umm...
No, you seem to be telling me what I dod and don't believe...
So tell me, All-Knowing Tom...
What else do I believe...
Since you seem to be so informed upon my belief system...
I'm interested in what I might be missing out on with myself...
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 8:54 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy (#66 & #67):
"Let it go, son...Let it go..."
"So tell me, All-Knowing Tom...What else do I believe..."
LMAO! That's the gatorhippy entertainment I'm talking about. Keep 'em coming! ;-)
"Since you seem to be so informed upon my belief system...I'm interested in what I might be missing out on with myself..."
I'm sure you'll bless us all with one of your hedged "proposals" again soon--although with you it's just a guessing game as to what you really think, apparently. While we're on that subject, we may as well get it over with now. Who is your hedged "proposal" to take the place of Rodriguez at WVU?
:-)
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 9:21 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy (#69):
"Given your lack of a response, I guess you don't really know what I belive then do you..."
The way you hedge your comments? Absolutely not. Hence, the entertainment. ;-)
"Try reading through the posts..."
Well, I wasn't really sure if Tommy Bowden is who you think WVU will go after, or who you think they ought to go after. Then again, that's just par for the course when trying to figure out what you're saying! LOL!! (:-D)
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 9:26 AM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#70):
The way you hedge your comments? Absolutely not. Hence, the entertainment...
Ok...
So now you admit that you don't know what I belive in...
Unlike earlier when you were telling me what I did believe would happen...
Which is it, Tom?
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 9:55 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy (#71):
"So now you admit that you don't know what I belive in...Unlike earlier when you were telling me what I did believe would happen...Which is it, Tom?"
First, it's been a pleasure jerking your chain--all in good fun. ;-)
Second, I think in the instance of the "ruined season" comment, I think you truly believed it was going to happen, regardless of how you worked in the "escape clause" of your original comment. For the most part, I give you the benefit of the doubt on your comments, because you've earned it. On that particular instance though, I'm calling your bluff--I wasn't born yesterday...I was born the day before yesterday! (:-D)
It's not like I'm just pulling that hunch out of thin air. If you want to be dramatic and now contend I know your entire belief system because of one instance, go right ahead; as I said, it's very entertaining. ;-)
Third, you never clarified your thoughts on Terry Bowden (my original question had a typo--I meant Terry and typed Tommy--sorry! I think that was a Freudian slip...). Do you think that's who WVU will go after, or do you think that's who they ought to go after? Or both?
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 10:04 AM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#72):
Nothing is ever personal, bro...
;-]
Not that I ever really believed the OSU thing would happen...
More stated to "jerk the chain" of Buck fans...
Which obviously worked in your case...
We'll call it square...
On Terry Bowden to WVU...
Just a contention, but one I felt is a high possibility in connection with the RR to Mich ideal that I threw out back on the 11th...
Tom Blogical
posted on December 17, 2007 10:25 AM — 24.95.77.153 — link — abuse? said:
gatorhippy (#73):
"...More stated to "jerk the chain" of Buck fans...
LOL!! Yeah, I could tell! (:-D)
If WVU is interested in Terry Bowden, then this would seem to indicate it will eventually happen.
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 10:49 AM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TB (#74):
A reservation I could see WVU having would be that Terry's record at Auburn mimicked Coker's at UCG...
Very successful up front then a gradual tapering off as recruiting seemed to fail Bowden and Coker...
That would be a red flag to me as an AD...
Maybe a second reservation would be if Terry would want to bring Jeff Bowden and his "Toss it up" offense with him...
TE
posted on December 17, 2007 11:39 AM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
One my favorite CD's in high school was Prodigy...I loved their Album, "The Fat Of The Land"...
I think Track 8 was titled Firestarter...
Having said that...
Diggs...you heard anything about a Pat White/RR blowup in the locker room after the Pitt Loss? Something about dogging it or the injury or somesuch?
Heard some interesting info this morning about RR and the "real" reason he was fishing around...
May be some smoke in Morgantown...
Fire away...
schmed said:
posted on December 17, 2007 11:40 AM — 63.241.223.4 — link — abuse?
Foxports' Fiutak says ßR still has a lot to prove - as a recruiter...Rodriguez has to be an even better overall recruiter than he's been at West Virginia. Despite being known as a terrific recruiter, West Virginia has had a mere seven players drafted since 2003, with none last year.
...By comparison, since 2003, Michigan has had 23 players drafted, including seven last year.
and as a HFC...Basically, West Virginia had one phenomenal half in the Sugar Bowl win over Georgia, but the Bulldogs came roaring back in the second half with only a fake punt from the Mountaineers holding off the charge in the 38-35 win.I don't know where all this journalistic objectivity has been the last couple-three years - Richt scrooed the pooch in his own backyard in the Aught-Five Exported Sugar Bowl, but ßR got heralded as some sort of genius.ßR sure has his work cut out for him.So now the pressure is on. There will be no grace period. There will be no time allowed for adjustments. Rodriguez has to come up with a top-shelf recruiting class, has to beat Ohio State, and has to have Michigan in the national championship chase, not necessarily in that order.
I ask again, has the tinfoil hat crowd given up on the Miles rumors?
TE
posted on December 17, 2007 12:12 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
G-Hip,
The closest to that I ever came were Carpenter Pants from Express...
I acutally had a girl I went to HS with bring one of those with us to Cancun on our Senior Trip...She got picked on pretty mercilessly by our group. At any rate, there was no need for a pacifier on that trip for her, anyway...I recall with fondness her own fondness for margaritas...
Those were the days...
No, TE wasn't exactly straight-laced, but walked the tightrope between white & blue collar...I had a lot of friends who went straight into petrochemical plants right out of HS...There's still a great living to be made with a very low cost of living in this state by doing so...
I had another group of friends I went to college with...Made for quite a few interesting nights in Tigerland bars...
The "rave" scene wasn't for my liking...I know a lot of people my age who went to the State Palace Theatre in New Orleans, but while I dug the music, and still do (though I have as eclectic a musical taste as you'll probably find), weirdo's gyrating to laser light shows with visor caps and girlfriends in tow, complete with sportsbras and backpacks and "noonies" wasn't exactly my bag...
I'm guessing from the Ricky Schroeder, condescending tone that's never more than a keystroke away in your posts, you weren't either, were you?
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 12:21 PM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TE (#80):
Nah...
Techno and the rave scene were never really my bag...
I'm more of a jam guy, but like yourself sport a rather eclectic musical library...
The last few years I've been toeing that same line between white/blue collar establishments...
Just as home in the hole in the wall as the country club...
TE
posted on December 17, 2007 12:31 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
Trudat, man...Louisiana's such a perfect state for me, in that respect...
In the past 6 months, I've found myself at Pier 13, a riverfront Bacchanalian joint that sports more silicone enhanced, bottle blonde, gym card carrying members than you'll see on Sunday at Rehab in Vegas...
I also found myself along the same river, in a joint called the Blind River Bar only a few weeks before, accessible only by water, which floors resemble a plowed field more than wood...It also has a way-cool autographed photo of Patrick Swayze, who caught a brew there while doing research for his legendary hit, Road House...
We hit up the Chimes for dinner two weekends ago, and I had rabbit stew at my friend's house for a Christmas Party Saturday night...
I'm like Johnny Cash...I walk the line...
So...Anyone else hear about this dealio with WVU & Pat White's friend putting some money down on Pitt, pre-game?
Just wondering...
Big Tide said:
posted on December 17, 2007 12:35 PM — 69.34.227.69 — link — abuse?
Wow, and just a year ago we were hearing about the the coming dominance of the BEAST...
All this talk about the job in Tuscaloosa being tough. Maybe it is, but wait and see what a couple of 6 win seasons will feel like in Ann Arbor.
Diggs #60. The Pitt loss had everything to do with this deal in my opinion. RR was buying into his own hype. Things have just been going his way and then suddenly, out of the blue a loss to Pitt in the biggest game of the year. Two of his best players about to leave. A couple of 6 or 7 win seasons and suddenly you are off the radar for jobs like Michigan. Hard to picture a Michigan team running the spread.....
TE, with your sources, did Miles suggest RR to the powers that be in Ann Arbor?
CFB Fan said:
posted on December 17, 2007 12:40 PM — 192.131.99.131 — link — abuse?
@60
Diggs the Mountie,
Great informational post!
I feel bad for all West Virginia alumni and fans.
But, with what you mentioned and some from others, this might be for the best.
Thanks to T-Mac, as I almost forgot about Mike Shula.
I believe, he is a very bright young coach.
Terry Bowden. The Bowden name alone, is powerful.
It appears he would love to come home and still has many good years of coaching still left in him.
I wish the best for WVU.
TE
posted on December 17, 2007 12:49 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
My source was from ESPN, not from LSU...
It seems that they're running down information on a bet placed by one of Pat White's close friends...
A big bet...On Pitt...
Hmm...Maybe it's smoke...Who knows, these days...I heard enough mierda from the Detroit Free Press' village idiot, aka, Terry Foster, and the Jemele chick from ESPN the past few weeks to float a battleship...
Sad when the sources you find on internet message boards are better than salaried writers who get paid for their work...
gatorhippy
posted on December 17, 2007 1:04 PM — 209.16.115.5 — link — abuse? said:
TE (#86):
Jemele Hill was run off from the Orlando Sentinel before landing that on-line gig with ESPN...
Her columns here usually reeked of accusations of bigotry and racism...
Orlandoans got tired of reading that crap, her popularity sunk (not that she ever really had any) and she bailed for ESPN...
JMHO, anything she says should be taken with not just a grain, but perhaps the entire salt shaker...
Islander said:
posted on December 17, 2007 4:18 PM — 24.148.189.130 — link — abuse?
Ok -- here are my thoughts. I am a big WVU fan and from WV. I grew up watching and learning certain virtues and how important they were. Virtues such as -- do what you say and say what you mean - a man should have honor, respect, courage, loyalty, ethics, morals and when you say you are going to do something -- someone knew it would be done. No loyalty anymore -- how sad.
The sad thing is today -- its ok for people to break promises and not do what they say. It seems that it is accepted as normal. Ones word is meaningless and no one seems to care. Sad Sad Sad
Whats the purpose of even having a contract anymore -- they seem to mean nothing -- you can break it at any time.
Thats my take -- I wish Rod good health and luck. I used to be a big Michigan fan too -- not anymore. How can I pull for a team that has a two-faced lying -- morally corrupt coach.
My prediction -- Rods system will not be successful in Michigan and he will wish he never left the great home he had at WVU.
Islander
Ramblin' Gator said:
posted on December 18, 2007 8:53 AM — 74.185.133.40 — link — abuse?
This should serve as a lesson to all you fans who think your coach will never leave your team, with thoughts like...
"He's an alumn."
"He's got a winning record."
"They are losers."
When Bill Curry left GT for Bama, I thought, "good move" (and boy was I wrong). When Steve Spurrier left UF for the pros, I thought "bad move" (and boy was I right). The fact is that they are ambitious - just like the rest of us - and want to make more money while silencing their critics. With a couple of exceptions (Bowden and Paterno), I'd say it's always possible your coach could quit.
Big Tide said:
posted on December 18, 2007 6:03 PM — 69.34.227.69 — link — abuse?
TE, what I meant earlier was have you heard whether or not Rich Rod was Miles' choice for the job? Just curious....
If Miles wins it all with LSU this season I can see him wearing the M up in Ann Arbor for the 2011 season if things don't work out for Rich Rod. I'd say he just walked into the most pressure packed job in the country because he has a ton to prove. That loss to Pitt has got to be stuck in your mind if you are a Michigan fan. What until he loses to OSU and Illinois in the same season - Ouch! I think Michigan fans have more class that to fly banners around the stadium but I've read some of their message boards. He better hit the ground running.....
posted on December 18, 2007 7:12 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse? said:
I don't know about you guys, but this whole situation has really bothered me. If I was a West Virginia man and a coach who was an alumnus left for another more-prestigious job, he wouldn't be worth spit to me anymore.
You can say all you want about opportunity and the fact that it's just a job. Some things supercede all that, and leaving your alma mater for anyone else would poison you in the minds of many fellow alumni. Just my $.02Tomcat # 87: Really? Who?
Zac said:
posted on December 19, 2007 1:33 PM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
OOPS!!! Sorry, guys, I just realized I put this silly post on the wrong thread.
Islander (Post 91), I graduated WVU class of 80'. I'm as bitter and disappointed as the next guy over this. But, for whatever reason, ultimately, it was Rich Rodriguez's decision to make. He, his family, WVU, and his team; they are the ones who have to live with it. Oh, most of us fans will feel sorry for ourselves for a little while, but in the long run, it won't matter to us who's coach, only that the team does well.
We can talk honor, integrity, loyalty, and a plethora of virtues until our fingers bleed from the typing. It won't change what's happened. Done is done. In as much as I don't like it, and in spite of my disappointment, I can't bring myself to do any more than wish him and his the best.
Tom Blogical (Post 54), you asked about my thoughts for a new coach. I like Boise St's, Chris Peterson. I know that would break Coondawg's heart, but If Peterson came in and left the existing staff as it is, I think he could have an immediate impact; i.e. start things up where Rodriguez left off. Ron Zook might be my next choice, but don't count on him being willing to leave IL just yet.
I do like Terry Bowden. Given his differing coaching style, he would be starting from scratch. He would need a few years for his program to build in. But, he's a proven coach; he just needs to work off the "ring rust".
I think T-Mac has something there with Mike Schulla. Indeed, that could be a good fit. AND, I don't think the fans will run him off after an 8-4 or even a 6-6 season. Like Bowden, Schulla's program will take a little time to build in. I understand he's one heck of a recruiter.
On a couple of other sites, Lloyd Carr's name was thrown around. I think he's tired of College Football, and is grateful for the opportunity to retire. Even Urban Meyer's name surfaced. Sure, that would be a good choice. I don't think WVU could afford him, even if he might be willing to leave. (Relax, Gator Mates, I don't think he's interested.)
Among others mentioned were, Steve Dunlap, Jimbo Fisher, Doc Holiday, Nick Saban, and Steve Spurier. I can only hope WVU AD, Ed Pastilong gets as lucky hiring an head football coach, as he got hiring Bobby Huggins as WVU's head BB coach. As I understand it, he's been more a part of the problem than the solution. Maybe it's his office where changes need to be made.
Who knows? At this point, all I'm interested in is seeing my Mountaineers make a fine showing of themselves against OK. After that, let the chips fall where they may.
OU-Ron
posted on December 19, 2007 2:06 PM — 216.201.209.146 — link — abuse? said:
Zac, seems like the game has kinda been forgotten about with all the crap that's been going on, not only with our game, but with all the others also. Usually all the sport shows are filled with storylines about the teams and players that are playing at whatever bowl, this year, they're filled with who got fired, who quit, who's the replacement, or what players got in trouble and won't be playing in the bowls...This is the strangest year in College Football that I can ever remember..
Tomcat said:
posted on December 19, 2007 8:29 PM — 68.93.140.127 — link — abuse?
OU Ron I would centainly agree.Perhaps a new rule should be instituded by the NCAA that prohibits a coach leaving a team volunteraly until after their season is over, and that a team who has a HC vacancy for whatever reason has to promote from within until the season is over.
For example Ark fires Nutt, then an assistant would have to assume the duties.
Who's going to coach during the Bowl shouldnt be an issue, really shouldnt the guy that took them.
Michigan,and West Virginia both had winning seasons and accepted bowl bids-who's going to coach them is the question and not their game plan for the opponent?
Is Zook the man for SMU ? whatever
Something needs to change?
coaches with winning seasons getting fired prior to the Bowls, coaches especially alums bailing out on programs prior to their Bowl.
Places like PAC who would rather carry on tradition than play the most deserving team in the Rose. I would rather here commentary about how yall are going to try and stop Slaton & White
Hookem-Horns
Go Frogs
Gigem-AggiesZac said:
posted on December 20, 2007 10:16 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
OU Ron, Tomcat, Bill Stewart (WVU's OC) has the reigns…for now. He'll coach the team through the bowl game, even if a new HC is chosen by that time.
So far the primary names that have surfaced are Terry Bowden, Bud Foster (DC, VA Tech), Doc Holiday (DC, FL), and to a lesser extent, Jim Grobe (HC, Wake). Saban's name has been kicked around, but nothing has been mentioned regarding Chris Peterson, Bosie; or Mike Schula. We need to get T-Mac talking to WVU's Admin.
Come to think of it, we need to get rid of WVU's AD. He's believed to be the primary reason Rich Rodriguez left. Don't have the whole story…film at 11:00.
KEGofKOOLAID said:
posted on December 21, 2007 1:31 AM — 70.62.161.114 — link — abuse?
Michigan made a great move here
SEC peeps may not like it but I think its a great hire, better than "Lesticles" I'm indifferent about that playcalling, RR has a great offense and in 2 years will convert the BIG M team to a power house once again although he needs the right defense Is the correct DC in place we will seeI'm still not worried about UM till Nov 2009 in AA
PS I am a Ohio State and Big Ten Homer and just left the bar for some reason I only post when drunk
Coach Tommy Tuberville said:
posted on December 21, 2007 4:50 AM — 66.25.103.127 — link — abuse?
This should be a wake-up call to you stupid Bammers ou there. Alabama couldn't win Rodriguez away. Alabama is a thing of the past just like that drunk bastard buried at Elmwood. True Alabama has a good tradition, but its future is piss poor. Next year we'll win and the streak will be seven in a row. Alabama will NEVER beat Auburn again. Well, while I'm coach any way.
posted on December 21, 2007 9:27 AM — link — abuse? said:
I don't have an issue with Coach Rod firing all the coaches yesterday. I suspect they are grateful, because they can now start applying for jobs, versus waiting until national signing day as some other coaches have done.
The best thing you can do for an assistant this time of year is let them know where they stand in December. If you wait until Jan/Feb, then many of the vacancies are already filled.
Ramblin' Gator said:
posted on December 21, 2007 9:48 AM — 67.97.209.36 — link — abuse?
#103: Kevin, perhaps you are right, but I really hate the fact that the coverage of their bowl game will be mostly focused on the coaching changes, rather than the play on the field. Particularly if the Gators win - which they are favored to do - the game itself will be a secondary storyline. Not how it should be (IMO).
Zac said:
posted on December 21, 2007 8:03 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
How is MI supposed to have any hope of winning its bowl game against FL with a coaching staff of 2 (One of Rod's assistants joined him at MI.)?
It seems as though he could have at least allowed them to coach the team, even though they'd be applying for other jobs. I realize there are aspects to that, which are problematic, but has ANYONE at all considered the players? It's bad enough that Bill Stewart has to run the show at WVU, (knowing he's likely down the road before long) with a severely reduced staff. All Coach Rod has at MI is a DB's coach and a 4 million dollar bill.
wvu_lifer
posted on December 22, 2007 3:37 AM — 75.109.107.108 — link — abuse? said:
Man, why is Jerry Moores name not being metioned at all? He's won 3 sub bowl division titles(1-AA) in a row.Not even the mighty sweater vest (Tressel) can say that. This guy is awesome, and his Mountaineers went to "the big house" and WON. With the same style spread that Rich_Fraud runs. Perfect fit!!
M GO BLUE said:
posted on December 22, 2007 11:40 AM — 216.46.213.48 — link — abuse?
Fred Jackson the Running backs coach has been hired by Rodriguez.
Actually I think Michigan would stand a better chance of winning their bowl game if the ONLY coach on the sideline was Rodriguez.
MIKE DEBORD IS GOOOONE GOOONE GOOOOOOOOOOOOOONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
gatorhippy
posted on December 22, 2007 4:19 PM — 70.121.110.84 — link — abuse? said:
Zac (#108):
No offense here, but IMO the WVU job isn't really a premier gig...
RR essentially built his rep at WVU on recruiting kids that weren't being offered at their first and second choices and making something out of them...
I think that you see the two leading candidates being a coach with the Coker syndrome (Great start with a spiraling drop off every year after) and having been out of coaching for ten years and the other simply a positional coach (albeit a good one) speaks volumes about exactly the level that the WVU job is among what would be considered premiere options for a coach looking to make a move...
In the case of Peterson, it would simply be a lateral move and I'm pretty sure he would be looking to move up...
Again, JMHO...
And not making an attempt at degrading the WVU program but just how I see it...
Tomcat said:
posted on December 22, 2007 5:34 PM — 68.93.140.127 — link — abuse?
GH I understand your position, however WV is in a {BCS} conference and Boise St is not. Peterson has already lead the Bronco's to a perfect season with no crystal ball. I wouldnt call it a lateral move at all because at WV you could play in a Nat Champ game with the current system at Hawaii or Bois st there's no crashing the party.
Other than a pay raise why would Briles leave Houston for Baylor? More of a lateral move than a move up, heck Houston is a winning program, going to bowls etc. etc. BU actually has a smaller enrollment located in a much smaller city and hasnt been to a bowl in years.
[BCS] conference ? WV & BU
Houston & Bois- non [BCS] conference teams
Heck thats why Johnson took the G Tech job.
I wouldnt really say that Bois to WV was a lateral move at all
Hang in their Zac yall got a winning program in a BCS conferencegatorhippy
posted on December 22, 2007 5:58 PM — 70.121.110.84 — link — abuse? said:
TC (#110):
True, but that is the ONLY sense that it would be a step up...
In the case of Peterson, however, more than likely he's waiting for a better job than WVU...
And rightfully so...
When the right position comes open on the West Coast, he'll get his due...
If he WANTED to put his name in that circle for the WVU position, is there any doubt he would get a serious look?
Tomcat said:
posted on December 22, 2007 6:01 PM — 68.93.140.127 — link — abuse?
post # 101 We feel privliged to be graced with your presence here and you are a greatly admired and respected individual in the world of sports.
Sorry that you didnt get the Texas A&M job.
The place that had coaches like Bryant,Bellard, Stallings, Sherril & Francione. How did those guys do coaching against the Tigers anyway. It's okay coach we know you dont want to answer that one right now heck it's time for you to go watch film or something anyway.
OxfordAndrew said:
posted on December 15, 2007 12:42 PM — 75.66.73.42 — link — abuse?Might be a good time for him to leave WVU, if White and/or Slaton enter the draft this year. Any program would be hard up to replace two players like those.