January 02, 2005
LSU Head Coaching Search - Les Miles hired
Updated 1/2/2005:
LSU will hold a noon press conference tomorrow to introduce Oklahoma State coach Les Miles as the new head coach at LSU. Miles, his wife Kathy, and his agent George Bass flew into Baton Rouge on Sunday to finalize the deal. One point during the discussion with Miles was his interest in an NFL job. Miles basically said, "Been there, done that," which made an impression on the LSU folks. As part of the agreement, Miles may be paying a significant portion of his $1 million buyout from his OSU contract.
Miles, the 2002 Big 12 Coach of the Year, will be taking a large portion of his OSU staff to LSU:
...six staff members will join Miles in Baton Rouge. Those going are: defensive coordinator Bill Clay, secondary coach Doug Mallory, receivers coach Todd Monken, running backs coach Larry Porter, tight ends coach Josh Henson and director of football operations Mack Butler.
For those not familiar, here's a rundown of Les Miles' career highlights:
An all-state player at Elyria, Ohio, Miles is a two- year letterman at Michigan, playing in the Orange and Rose bowls.
1980-81: Miles begins his coaching career at his alma mater. Michigan plays in the Rose and Bluebonnet bowls.
1982-1986: Joining Bill McCartney, Miles spends five years in Colorado helping turn the program around. The Buffaloes play in three consecutive bowls and post 21 wins the last three seasons.
1987-94: Miles returns to Michigan and spends seven years on the staff under Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller. 1995-97: OSU's offensive coordinator
1998-2000: Miles is the Dallas Cowboys' tight end coach for three seasons under Chan Gailey and Dave Campo.
2000: Miles is hired on Dec. 6, 2000, to become the school's 21st head football coach.
2001: OSU upsets Oklahoma 16-13 in the final game of Miles' debut season.
2002: The Cowboys are 2-4 midway through 2002 but turn the season around with their first win over Nebraska in 41 years.
2002: OSU defeats Texas A&M the week after the Nebraska win. It's the Pokes' first win over A&M since the conference was formed.
2002: Miles is the only coach in the nation to defeat OU coach Bob Stoops twice when the Cowboys roll past the Sooners 38-28 in the 2002 regular-season finale. With his second consecutive Bedlam win, Miles becomes the first OSU coach to defeat Nebraska and Oklahoma in the same season.
2002: Miles is named Big 12 Coach of the Year.
2002: The Cowboys win their first bowl game since 1988 with a 33-23 win over Southern Mississippi in the Houston Bowl.
2003: OSU defeats Kansas State, the eventual Big 12 champion, to end a nine- game losing streak against the Wildcats.
2003: The Cowboys post only their second win over Texas Tech since the Barry Sanders era.
2004: OSU plays in the Cotton Bowl, the Cowboys' first January bowl game in 55 years. OSU loses 31-28 to Ole Miss.
2004: The Cowboys open the season with a road win over UCLA, OSU's first season-opening win in the Miles era.
2004: OSU plays in its third consecutive bowl for only the second time in school history.
--Kevin Donahue
As LSU continues it's search for a Head Coach, this thread will serve as a repository for related Fanblogs.com posts, links to articles on other sites, &. updates on the latest rumors from Baton Rouge. Comments for this post will be an open forum on the topic.
LSU Head Coach Nick Saban hired by Miami Dolphins
Speculation on who will be the next Head Coach at LSU
Auburn's Tommy Tuberville to LSU?
Arkansas's Houston Nutt denies contact from LSU
Auburn's Tommy Tuberville insists he's staying at Auburn - will not coach LSU
Louisville's Bobby Petrino will interview at LSU for Head Coach position
Butch Davis out as candidate at LSU
Les Miles interviewed by LSU? - reports of a phone interview yesterday
12/28/2004 - Bobby Petrino has confirmed that he had a preliminary interview with LSU in Nashville on Sunday, but has not been offered the head coach position.
12/28/2004 - After interviewing Bobby Petrino, LSU has received permission to interview Arkansas Razorbacks Head Coach Houston Nutt. --Kevin Donahue
12/29/2004 - Arkansas Head Coach Houston Nutt has removed his name from the LSU coaching search. Nutt acknowledged that he spoke with LSU briefly, but indicated that he is happy to be staying at Arkansas. Nutt makes $1.5 million as the Razorbacks head coach.
You would have to think that Petrino is still the number one, despite his love 'em and leave 'em history. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State Head Coach Les Miles has met with an LSU representative, despite Oklahoma State denying LSU permission to interview Miles. Since Miles contract does not require the university's OK for him to interview, LSU is proceeding with Miles consent. Miles has a one year buyout clause in his contract, or approximately $1-1.5 million. The fact that Miles is (apparently) moving forward with LSU despite OSU denying permission signals that he is very interested in hearing what the Tigers have to say. --Kevin Donahue
12/31/2004 - LSU played the race card yesterday, in announcing that they had interviewed Tigers receivers coach Bobby Williams for the team's head coaching position. Previous to sitting with Williams, who is an African-American, LSU would only comment on coaching candidates after they had publicly confirmed their interviews (Petrino & Nutt).
LSU also interviewed former Texas A&M head coach RC Slocum, but that's being characterized as more of a courtesy interview than an indication that Slocum is a strong candidate.
The Tigers seem to be very anxious to interview Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio, but have not had formal contact with Del Rio or his agent. NFL coaches cannot interview for other jobs until after the NFL season ends this Sunday. -- Kevin Donahue
UPDATE 12/31/04 by Dave Frey
ESPN Radio reported around lunchtime today (sorry, no weblink yet) that Petrino's agent is categorically denying rumors of an offer by LSU. This would appear to be an effort at damage control, as Petrino has SERIOUSLY pissed off Louisville's fans and administration with the LSU flirtation after signing his new contract. In fact, there's even an ESPN.com article suggesting that if he doesn't get the LSU job Louisville may fire him anyway. This guy has a way of stirring up ill will; not sure we want him in Tigerland.
My best guess (and that's all it is) now is that Ferentz and Miles are the leading candidates, with Ferentz being preferable but Miles being more attainable. LSU probably won't make an announcement until mid next week, after they've talked to Del Rio (and if you believe the message board rumors, Gruden. Ha!). Of course, if they could get agreement from Ferentz, an announcement could come sooner, but I see this as unlikely as of now. (Boy, how much would Iowa hate LSU if we beat them in the bowl and stole their hotshot coach?) The downside of Ferentz for LSU is, of course, that like Saban, he's going to be on the short list for every NFL opening. This Tiger fan is willing to live with that if we keep winning, but many are not.
More later.
-------------------------------------------------
Update 12/31/2004
LSU officials spent the day in Jacksonville, intending to meet with Jaguars Head Coach Jack Del Rio. After spending the day waiting around for a meeting to take place, LSU reps finally left Jacksonville without meeting with Del Rio or his representatives. --Kevin Donahue
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UPDATE 1/1/05 by Dave Frey
ESPN reports that Petrino has withdrawn his name from consideration for the LSU job.
-----------------------------------------------------------
UPDATE #2, 1/1/05 by Jeff Quinton
The Times-Picayune is reporting Les Miles is being offered the job with details finalized as early as Wednesday. Thanks to commenter mouse for the heads-up.
ESPN.com has more information.
UPDATE #3, 1/1/05 by Dave Frey
Not so fast, my friend! It COULD be Les Miles, but the source of these reports is a Baton Rouge talkshow host named Jimmy Ott who is NOT the most reliable source in the world. I think these major media outlets picking this up because Ott said it is highly irresponsible and could leave a lot of egg on a lot of faces next week. At this point, I'd put the odds of it being Miles at around 50%.
UPDATE 1/2/2005
Jumbo Fisher seems poised to leave LSU. After the loss in the Capital One Bowl, Fisher indicated that he will probably be coaching "at another school" next year, but holds no hard feelings towards LSU for not offering him a chance to interview. Meanwhile, most major media outlets are saying that LSU will not hold any addditional interviews and that LSU officials confirmed that Oklahoma State coach Les Miles will be offered the head coaching position at LSU. --Kevin Donahue
This post will be updated by Fanblogs authors with links to the latest LSU head coach search information.
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LoneStarGazer says:
posted on December 28, 2004 10:38 AM — linkTerry Robiskie, I hope will be interviewed by LSU. He is the favorite son who has had (as near as I can tell) a pretty good career as a position coach and coordinator in the NFL. Don't know how he'd be as a recruiter, but I heard him say he'd rather stay as head coach of the Browns, but would like to talk to LSU.
The bottom line is that I wish I could replace Saban with a clone--someone who is obsessive with details, a great teacher, an eloquent (for football coach) communicator, connected with the NFL, a gifted tactition, who can relate to young men and their development, to the fans, and to the boosters.
I am glad Skip Bertman has talked to Saban and gotten his ideas on who should be approached as his replacement.Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 28, 2004 10:53 AM — linkFoxSports is reporting that Petrino has already met with LSU. I *think* this is just confusion over the news that Petrino will interview with LSU, but maybe they've already talked.
Haven't seen any updates yet on Les Miles.
From Dumbidity
pinged on Dec 28, 2004 11:04 AMSoCal's Pete Carroll has not denied buzz of double-secret negotiations with LSU to take over Nick Saban's program. BNN brings us the latetest rumor and insane innuendo.
dave frey says:
posted on December 28, 2004 12:07 PM — linkKevin- other outlets are also saying Petrino has met with LSU already, and there are rumors that LSU officials are flying to Memphis today for a second visit and possibly to extend an offer.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 28, 2004 03:55 PM — linkAll I can say is, don't expect a dynasty with Petrino. He'll love ya & leave ya. 14 different coaching positions in 20 years? Can you say commitment issues?
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 28, 2004 04:02 PM — linkDave- From the Daily Oklahoman article above about the Les Miles interview, it seems that LSU has already conducted three phone interviews. Any in person interviews?
lsufanatic says:
posted on December 28, 2004 05:47 PM — linkany word on a pursuit of Spurrier, he has a minimum buyout clause and LSU would be a much better situation for him and the fun and gun???
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 28, 2004 06:11 PM — linkSpurrier isn't coming to LSU. Forget it. Get happy about who they are willing to interview. Steve Spurrier, Bob Stoops, Jeff Tedford, Carroll, Mack Brown, Jim Tressell...they're not coming to LSU.
Is LSU a top five job? No. Top 10? Yeah, I think so. But the top coaches aren't going to give up what they've got going. Period.
Spurrier is going to put in his four/five years in South Carolina & then he's going to Florida State. ;)
dave frey says:
posted on December 28, 2004 06:21 PM — linkYes, there was definitely an in person meeting, and apparently another one today or tomorrow in Memphis.
I don't think Spurrier would even consider leaving SC at this point, nor do I think LSU has any interest in contacting him. However, had he been available when the LSU job came open, he'd have taken it over the SC job in a heartbeat.
Robert Knodell says:
posted on December 28, 2004 07:02 PM — linkTo me, Les Miles would be a perfect fit down there. He's built OSU up nicely in the shadows of OU and UT. I think the sky could be the limit if he were to be the "big dog" in Louisiana. He recruits Texas quite well, also, which LSU has attempted to recruit for years.
Petrino is a hired-gun vagabond, pure and simple. He could and would be lured away from LSU pretty quickly. I really think you have to question his loyalty, after jumping from job to job, stabbing Tuberville (the man who gave him the exposure he needed to get the Louisville job) in the back, and making ridiculous promises to stay at U of L before jumping all over LSU. We all know the nature of the business today, but it seems that Petrino represents the worst of what we don't like.
From Backcountry Conservative
pinged on Dec 28, 2004 7:17 PMFanblogs has a roundup on the search for a new head football coach at LSU and lots of other news related to college football....
dave frey says:
posted on December 29, 2004 07:41 AM — linkI'm with you Robert. Miles seems like the best candidate to me. I can't believe we're even talking to Houston Nutt. The guy's a good coach but he'll never be a great coach, and he recruits thugs; his players are constantly in trouble. We don't need that at LSU.
schmed says:
posted on December 29, 2004 10:30 AM — linkAnybody else notice the absurdity of the line "ABC Tech officials were granted permission to speak with Coach Doe by RST University's Athletic Director" ?
If I'm Looeyville's AD and I just inked Petrino to a new contract, I'm tellin' Skip Bertman - politely - to enjoy airborne lunar copulation when he calls to ask permission to speak with Bobby.
...like it'd help.
dave frey says:
posted on December 29, 2004 04:30 PM — linkThere are some reports today, which I still can't confirm, that OSU actually told LSU they could NOT talk to Miles, but that LSU was going to talk to him anyway because there's no provision in his contract requiring him to have permission. May all be hogwash, can't tell yet. I have a hard time believing that we'd talk to a guy after his school denied permission; that's dirty and could ruin goodwill for years and years.
craig mclaughlin says:
posted on December 29, 2004 06:45 PM — linkHouston Nutt's name keeps coming up. I don't understand it. He sucks. He has three plays: Matt Jones hands it off to someone; Matt Jones throws it to someone; Matt Jones runs for the first down. Even with Jones, Nutt had a losing season. Next year will be worse. Nutt talks a good game, and he's decent at recruiting, but otherwise he's a disaster.
But maybe that's just what LSU deserves. War Damn Eagle...
dave frey says:
posted on December 29, 2004 09:13 PM — linkLook at the common thread: Saban, Tubesteak, and Nutt, all represented by Jimmy Sexton. They just floated their names out there to give their emloyers a little incentive to treat them well. It never hurts a coach to be mentioned in the media as a candidate for a big job. Those guys were never really candidates.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 29, 2004 09:54 PM — linkAccording to the Oklahoma State AD in the Daily Oklahoman, he "never" grants permission to schools looking to interview his coaches.
Birdwell denied the request, which in reality serves as little more than a courtesy. Miles has a buyout in his contract, which Birdwell said is "approximately one year's salary," about $1 million.
"I never give anyone permission to talk to our coaches," Birdwell said.
Artemis says:
posted on December 30, 2004 11:36 AM — linkPetrino, Nutt, Tuberville, what the hell is LSU thinking? Why not contact Mike Shula or Mark Richt while they are at it?
Arkansas and Auburn are LSU's biggest rivals. That's like Coach K leaving Duke and going to UNC. As for Petrino, his record doesn't impress me and he is not the most committed coach out there.
LSU needs to look at the big picture, and I hope they are. I would rather hold out for Dennis Erickson or a quality, proven assistant. Norm Chow is a bit unrealistic but someone of his caliber and capabilities. Jack Del Rio's name keeps popping up, I would quite frankly be surprised if he accepted the job.
But then again, I wouldn't put it past LSU to rehire Gerry DiNardo.
From SEC College Football - Fanblogs.com
pinged on Dec 30, 2004 11:40 AMReports indicate that 1 of LSU's 11 verbal committments (Dajleon Farr) has now committed to Miami while as many as 5 verbals now consider themselves undecided as the search for a new coach continues. 2 prospects, Bryon Evans of Jacksonville and Michael...
From Conference USA College Football - Fanblogs.com
pinged on Dec 30, 2004 12:00 PMWith all the talk of Bobby Petrino taking the head coaching position at LSU, Louisville is left to wait like one of the contestants on The Bachelor. At least one former Cardinal's name is popping-up in "what-if" conversations. Minnesota Vikings offensi...
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 30, 2004 03:43 PM — linkFormer LSU Athletic Director Joe Dean on the coaching search: "I think they're struggling."
Jeff says:
posted on December 30, 2004 04:10 PM — linkKevin,
The Shreveport Times seems to be doing some editorializing against Nutt in what apparently is supposed to be a news article:
LSU has also said it spoke briefly with Houston Nutt, who was 5-6 at Arkansas last season and whose program featured 26 player arrests from 1999 through 2003, including nine that were alcohol related and one that involved the sale of large amounts of marijuana and weapons possession. When another Southeastern Conference coach kicked a player off of his team in 2002 for a marijuana-related offense, he said he didn't want his team to turn into "another Arkansas."schmed says:
posted on December 30, 2004 04:14 PM — linkMan, if that ain't the pot callin' the kettle hot.
"All searches are very difficult," said Dean, who brought Curley Hallman and Gerry DiNardo to LSU. Hallman was a hot name at Southern Mississippi in 1991 and highly recommended by Brandt, who told Dean to "Hire Curley Hallman and don't look back."
(emphasis mine)
Joe Dean shines his shoes with the wrong brown stuff.
Mark Emmert found Saban and worked the salary deal in 1999 and again in 2003 (with Bertman). If it had been up to Dean, he probably would've lured Jackie Sherril from Starkravingmadville or maybe even got us Joe Lee Dunn.
Merciful heavens, save us from any more of that idiot.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 30, 2004 04:18 PM — linkJackie Sherrill is available, schmed. ;)
dave frey says:
posted on December 30, 2004 08:26 PM — linkIt's Mumme's stylish, contemporary hair-do that makes the chicks dig him.
Josh McClain says:
posted on December 31, 2004 03:49 AM — linkAccording to Pat Forde, LSU just interviewed former Texas A&M coach RC Slocum for the position, and plans to interview Jack Del Rio next week, after the Jags finish up their season.
dave frey says:
posted on December 31, 2004 08:15 AM — linkSlocum is a friend of LSU's incoming chancellor; this was either a courtesy interview or more likely picking his brain about other candidates; Slocum is still well respected and connected in the college football world. But he's NOT a real candidate for the job. LSU also interviewed Bobby Williams, but that was just so no one could say they didn't talk to any minorities.
Latest word from ground zereaux is that Petrino flunked the 2nd interview pretty badly and may even be completely out of the running.
I'm starting to think all the noise about Petrino is a smoke screen while LSU pursues other candidates below the radar.
schmed says:
posted on December 31, 2004 10:50 AM — linkA local, self-designated LSU expert makes no mention of Slocum (or Ricky-the-Greek Neuheisel), but had this to say in this morning's rumor report:
Thursday was sort of a quiet day for news in the coaching search to replace Nick Saban. LSU assistant coach Bobby Williams was interviewed and reports surfaced that Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz would interview for the LSU job. I understand that Mike Riley from Oregon State interviewed for the job Thursday and reports are that Jack Del Rio will interview again today. There were also strong rumors going around that Steve Spurrier has not yet signed his contract with South Carolina and is interested in the job, but there and other rumors saying that Spurrier has signed his contract but the buyout clause is only $250,000. Still another rumor is that Dennis Erickson is interested in the job. All the above is from information I have received and is not official. I received two reports from someone who does not talk a lot, but is usually pretty accurate when he does, and he told me that LSU is negotiating a block buster deal with a big time football coach who has coached in college and in the NFL and if contract agreement can be worked out an announcement could come as early as Sunday afternoon.
I'm not saying I agree with anything he says, but it's interesting rumor-mongering.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on December 31, 2004 11:32 AM — linkOK - I don't know where they're getting this from, but I have four emails this morning from people saying JOHN GRUDEN is talking to LSU.
schmed says:
posted on December 31, 2004 12:26 PM — linkMaybe Dandy Don's getting the same emails you did?
That makes sense in a way - Saban's won the college "super bowl" and goes for the Lombardi Trophy, so he swaps with Gruden who's already coming down off his Stupor Bowl High and wants the Crystal Orb.
I'm sure he's got Michael Clayton urging him to pole a pirogue down de bayou.
DandyD says:
posted on December 31, 2004 05:31 PM — linkDandy Don is probably below the radar with the new coach. Read him and believe.
dave frey says:
posted on December 31, 2004 06:42 PM — linkDandy Don knows a little about recruiting and a little about football, but he is absolutely 100% F.O.S. when it comes to the coaching search. He prefaces his nonsensical rumors with BS about his imaginary "sources" so people will think he's some sort of insider. He isn't.
mouse says:
posted on December 31, 2004 07:59 PM — linkWhat about Mike Leach? He's done pretty well in Texas, considering he runs number 3 in the state. And that win over Cal last night was pretty impressive...or Cal was really overrated.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on January 1, 2005 12:01 PM — linkPetrino's out? I think Dave had it right when he said Petrino blew his interview.
dave frey says:
posted on January 1, 2005 02:43 PM — linkThe story about him blowing the 2nd interview has persisted to the point that I'm 100% it's accurate. Apparently he got scratched from the list and the "withdrawal" is to save face.
dave frey says:
posted on January 1, 2005 02:47 PM — linkFunniest message board hysteria item of the day:
Jimmy Johnson (yes, that Jimmy Johnson) was spotted at the New Orleans airport yesterday. Apparently nobody on any of the LSU fan boards had a clue that New Orleans is a pretty popular place to be on New Year's Eve, because people on several different boards reported that, according to their "super secret inside sources", Mr. Hairspray to LSU was a "done deal". Hilarious.
mouse says:
posted on January 1, 2005 05:17 PM — linkBreaking News!!!! www.nola.com is reporting that Les Miles is being offered the gig.
CCLa Rumors says:
posted on January 1, 2005 07:27 PM — linkHEard that Steve Spurrier was in town yesterday. The deal was reportedly done - he was house hunting with the family. He apparently has a $60,000 buyout clause with the SC contract that lasts 90 days. Only thing he will miss coming to Baton Rouge will be the membership to Augusta that Hootie apparently was fronting.
Jeff says:
posted on January 1, 2005 07:59 PM — linkJust to reiterate:
ESPN.com
Also, rumors that former Florida and current South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier was being wooed by LSU were quashed by the Ol' Ball Coach on Friday afternoon. Spurrier told The Gainesville Sun: "Naw, I've got the ultimate challenge (at South Carolina). LSU, they've already done it, won a national championship and SECs and divisions. I'm not going anywhere. This is my last gig."dave frey says:
posted on January 1, 2005 08:17 PM — linkGuys, all that Les Miles stuff is due to a Baton Rouge talk radio host named Jimmy Ott. He reported it first, then a bigger talk station picked it up and repeated it, and before you knew it, it was on the Times Picayune site.
I'm not saying it WON'T be Miles, but Jimmy Ott is an attention hound and also has a reputation for being completely full of shit about half the time. I would NOT put a lot of stock in this right now.
On one of the tv newscasts in Baton Rouge tonight, they interviewed an LSU official who said they were working out a deal with someone the fans "would be pleased with" but that no offers have been made yet. He's got to know the fans and boosters won't exactly be thrilled about Miles.
It COULD be Miles, but I think these reports are premature and there's a fair chance some media outlets are going to have serious egg on their faces next week.
James C. says:
posted on January 1, 2005 09:45 PM — linkI just want to add that The Baton Rouge Advocate is also reporting Les Miles to be the new coach. The article by Carl Dubois alludes to "...a source close to the search..." for their information. Take it for what it's worth, but you can read the article here: http://www.theadvocate.com/stories/010105/lsu_coachmiles001.shtml
Randy says:
posted on January 1, 2005 09:50 PM — linkI am an OU supporter so I dont really care where Les Miles stays at OSU or not. Here in OKC is what a lot of folks are saying: If he is offered the LSU job he will take it. Here is why: OSU does not have the ump to win the Big 12 and Big 12 Championship. OSU would have to beat OU and Texas and will all theor other Big 12 games to get to the Big 12 Title Game. Has that ever happen??? NO.....Until OSU can accomplish that, they will never compete for a National Championship. My OSU biddies, some who are big $$$ contributors, cant find out anything about Miles, either causing rumors to run rampant and specualtion is growing.
Kevin Donahue says:
posted on January 1, 2005 10:35 PM — linkExcellent use of the "not so fast my friend", Frey!
Randy says:
posted on January 1, 2005 10:37 PM — linkThe Daily Oklahoman newspaper here in Oklahoma City is now reporting online that Les Miles will be offered the LSU head coaching position.
JIM Q says:
posted on January 1, 2005 10:39 PM — linkI AM A OSU ALUM WHO USED TO LIVE IN BATON ROUGE WHEN I WAS YOUNG.I EVEN SOLD SOFT DRINKS AT TIGER STADIUM WHEN I WAS 11. WE LIVED IN SHERWOOD FOREST OFF OLD HAMMOND HWY. AND FLORIDA BLVD, FOR YOU LSU FANS.I WAS A HUGE MARAVICH FAN,THE REAL PISTOL PETE.NOW YOU WANT TO HIRE LES ,ARE YOU SURE ,HAVE YOU HEARD HIM TALK?,WOULD YOU CONSIDER TAKING THE WHOLE STAFF?,DID ANYONE WATCH OSU IN THE A&M GAME OR TEXAS, TEXAS TECH,OR OHIO STATE. COACHING MEANS EVERYTHING AND I THINK YOU NEED A COACH THAT CAN COACH 4 QUARTERS BESIDES HE'S A YANKEE
MikeW says:
posted on January 1, 2005 10:49 PM — linkThis is not a lie....but a rumor from a good source:
A friend of mine rode in a taxi from the hotel to the game with Early D's Mom. With no proding she began a conversation w/ my friend that evolved to her telling my friend that Steve Spurrier was a done deal and that they had told some younger players to keep them from leaving, and were keeping it out of the media until next week. Tttttake this info w/ a grain of salt...but my friend is not a lier. So if the info is false it was from Early's mom. I hope he is coming.Randy says:
posted on January 1, 2005 11:00 PM — linkSpurrier has been quoted on the Net that he is not going to LSU....that he is at his last coaching position......just food for thought...
MikeW says:
posted on January 1, 2005 11:10 PM — linkYeah...I read that too. I don't know why this lady was so convinced. We will see. All this Miles stuff is rumors too...nothing concrete. LSU has been known to let the media run with stories only to surprise its fans during the press conference with unexpected choices.
Franklin says:
posted on January 2, 2005 12:12 AM — linkI love it when Spurrier's name pops up everywhere. Spurrier isn't going anywhere but to the SEC championship w/ the Gamecocks.
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 02:13 AM — linkSome of my OSU friends told me a bit ago that Les Miles told his assistant coaches and team this evening that he is going on a "recruiting trip" on Sunday, but would not identify where he was going. The speculation is he is going to meet with the LSU folks to put the deal together for him to become the LSU coach.
dave frey says:
posted on January 2, 2005 08:16 AM — linkMiles has now confirmed that he will be in Baton Rouge today to meet with LSU officials. Looks like he may indeed be the guy. Wouldn't be my first choice, but he may do ok. I have a feeling he's the second coming of Ron Zook.
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 09:11 AM — linkJust minutes ago KFOR-TV here in OKC announced that Les Miles has accepted the head coaching job at LSU and is taking at least three of his OSU assistants with him including defensive coordinator Bill Clay. I personally have never understood what Miles sees in Bill Clay, but I think it is in OSU'a best interest that Clay is departing OSU.
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 09:40 AM — linkInformation is now "leaking" out of OSU that the "Milesgate" has in fact been brewing for the past 24 hours. Apparently late last night Miles accepted the LSU job and began contacting his coaches during the night. Seems as though they burned the "midnight" oil in Stillwater. The word out of Stillwater is that OSU will call a press conference sometime tomorrow and will announce that OSU assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Mike Gundy will become the next Cowboy head coach. Gundy is a former OSU quarterback and attended Midwest City, OK high school. There seems to be mixed reaction to Miles departure among OSU supporters and school officials according to my contacts.
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 10:48 AM — linkI have just learned that the OSU Regents will apparantly meet this afternoon in Stillwater, OK concerning the Miles matter.
mouse says:
posted on January 2, 2005 10:49 AM — linkThe supposed selection of Les Miles leads me to conclude this wasn't one of the best jobs in the country...maybe top 15...but not top 5 or even 10. However, this does seem similar to the Saban hire 5 years ago. I just thought we would land someone with a higher profile.
mouse says:
posted on January 2, 2005 11:04 AM — linkLike Saban, the benefit to Miles will be no other school to really compete against in the state for recruits. He'll have a better group of athletes at LSU vs. OSU to work with...so it'll be a much better coaching situation for him. I hope he doesn't begin a coaching caravan out of OSU...we need top notch coordinators to compete in the SEC. On another note, DandyDon says Miles had expressed interest to coach UofM one day...I had really hoped we could land a coach that would stay here 10 to 20 yrs.
dawg555 says:
posted on January 2, 2005 12:23 PM — linkI hope that jenkins and bertman don't try and polish up the apple and try and force Miles down our throats. A ex-baseball player at Northeast in Monroe stated that smoke laval had let the baseball coach at Northeast(which is where smoke used to coach) that he is still close to, know that Spurrier was in fact on lsu campus yesterday. I beleive he is the only coach that fans are going to be excited about.
Franklin says:
posted on January 2, 2005 02:08 PM — linkSpurrier himself said he was not interested in the LSU job. I wonder how bad Bobby Petrino flunked the second interview, he seems like a better candidate than Miles.
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 03:14 PM — linkMiles is a Michigan grad with close ties to Bo Schembechler. The propoganda here in Oklahoma was that Miles would only leave OSU for the Michigan job if Lloyd Carr left Michingan. Evidently Carr has no plans to retire at the moment or it was strictly propoganda. Miles likely came to terms that it would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to win the Big 12 South, Big 12 Championship and a National Championshup at OSU as long as two guys known as Bob Stoop and Mack Brown coached in the Big 12 South.......Just a little food for thought......
JoJo Da Tiger says:
posted on January 2, 2005 05:13 PM — linkRandy,
Would you rather win the SEC championship vs. the Big 12 Championship?
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 05:30 PM — linkSince I am an OU fan, I would say the Big 12 Championship of course. Why do you think Les Miles is moving on to LSU. He is no dumby by any means. To get to the Big 12 Champsionship, OSU would first have to win the Big 12 South. When was the last time OSU won the Big 12 South? Answer: OSU has never won the Big 12 South. This year OSU lost to Oklahoma, Texas, Texas A & M and Texas Tech all of whom are in the Big 12 South. The only Big 12 South team that OSU defeated this year was Baylor. Going 1-4 in the Big 12 South is going the wrong direction for a Big 12 Championship. I think Les Miles odds in winning an SEC Cahmpionship or National Championship at LSU are a lot better than at Oklahoma State. Both Texas A & M and Texas Tech seem to be improving when compared with their performance of only two to three years ago. The Big 12 South seems to be getting tougher each year. This situation will not only make it tougher on OSU, but on all of the Big 12 South teams. The rule in the Big 12 South has been that if you have more than one Big 12 Conference loss you are done. And, I have no doubt that the SEC is a very strong conference, but at least Les wont have to play OU and Texas every year.
dave frey says:
posted on January 2, 2005 05:56 PM — linkThere's a common misconception that if you have a top tier football program then you get your pick of top tier coaches. It does NOT work that way. There are very, very few top tier, big name coaches, and almost NONE of them are available for hire at any given time. Remember when Spurrier left Florida, and their fans thought they'd have their pick of ANY coach they wanted, and they ended up with Ron Zook? That's exactly where LSU is today.
So you can throw all the big names you want out there and say LSU should've gotten one of them, but exactly NONE of them were available for LSU. Urban Meyer was already gone. Spurrier was already gone. Davis wanted to take a year off. Tedford has no reason to leave. Ferentz has no reason to leave. Del Rio will get a big raise and thus has no reason to leave.
So for all of those who wanted LSU to go get a big name, who exactly did you want us to go get who is currently available?
Randy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 06:20 PM — linkDave----
You are 100% correct. That was very well put.Catdaddy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 06:44 PM — linkFace it -- Nick Saban and Wayne H. screwed us. If the Saban deal would have went down earlier, we might have had a better chance of hiring a top tier coach. I, for one, am not at all excited about the supposed hiring of Miles. My biggest concern is that the Tigers were poised to run the table next year and now we have a nonexperienced SEC coach that is going to have to play several up and coming SEC schools. My next concern is the AD--Skip Bertman. I think he is looking out himself. What an IDIOT for not putting anything in Nicks contract about keeping him put for several years. Seems like he is all to worried about HIS baseball legacy at LSU. Geaux Tigers.
dave frey says:
posted on January 2, 2005 07:03 PM — link"Face it -- Nick Saban and Wayne H. screwed us. If the Saban deal would have went down earlier, we might have had a better chance of hiring a top tier coach."
We were screwed by the timing of the Dolphins negotiation and hiring, but certainly not deliberately. Surely you don't think Saban had some sinister plan to leave LSU in a bad situation for hiring his replacement? That's nonsense. Say what you will about him, but he does love LSU and wants the school to continue to build on what he started. (Please don't give me any of that juvenile "if he loved LSU he would've stayed" bullshit. it's really lame.)
"My next concern is the AD--Skip Bertman. I think he is looking out himself. What an IDIOT for not putting anything in Nicks contract about keeping him put for several years."
If Bertman is looking out for himself, then it is in his best interest to hire the best possible candidate for the job and keep LSU winning. Otherwise he looks bad. And LSU TRIED to put buyouts and other provisions to keep Saban, and he wouldn't have any part of it. He knew he wasn't staying here. But honestly, do you really want to hold a guy hostage via contract if he's ready to move on? I know I don't want an employee on my staff that doesn't really want to be there any more, nor would I hold an employee back from the opportunity of a lifetime if it came along.
Phantom Loup Garou says:
posted on January 2, 2005 07:53 PM — linkI'm down with Miles. He's taken a number 2 school in OK and made good. That's like making Tulane into a contender. There are a large number of similarities b/w he and St. Nick ... so give the man (if he's offered and he accepts) a chance.
What concerns me most is our defense. I'm not sure if he's a defensive minded coach. I'd love to see him keep Muschamp - that guy is a recruiter and has learned at the knee of St. Nick for the past few years. Keeping Muschamp is the key to LSU's future success.
kjanchild says:
posted on January 2, 2005 08:17 PM — linkHas anyone else realized that Ricky Williams came back to screw us!!!! Think about it... if he stays the job in Miami is probably not available!
YukonCowboy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 08:55 PM — linkIt's mind boggling to me that after watching the second half of the Texas/OSU game, the Texas Tech/OSU Game and the Alamo Bowl that LSU would hire Miles? OSU may not have the depth of LSU, OU or Texas but many of their starters were heavily recruited by all of the above and have underachieved under Miles! XLK, Brad Girtman, Walter Thomas to name a few highly sought after who have done nothing at OSU. Donovan Woods showed what he can do when Miles isn't forcing him to hand the ball off 3 times in a row and punt and Vernand Morency is as good as any back in the country. Anyone who watched OSU rip Texas apart 35-7 in the first half only to come out and have the coaching staff run three runs off tackle and punt 10 series in a row while Texas scored 49 unanswered points........Then the Texas Tech game and the Alamo Bowl. Two of the worst games ever with regards to play calling. The only game this past year that Woods was allowed to open it up and become somewhat unpredictable was against OU. A game the Sooners were fortunate to win 38-35 thanks to a dropped pass off the fingertips of Prentiss Elliot at the 5 yard line that would have provided the winning margin for the Cowboys with less than a minute left. That's right, OU, the team getting ready to hand it to USC Tuesday night! In fact if there's one thing I will give him credit for it's that he recruited much better players than before he arrived. I'm just not impressed with what he did with them after they got there. Good Luck LSU...you may need it! I heard you're getting Bill Clay too! Don't be cursing us next year halfway through the season and in return I'll try not to say I told you so!
dave frey says:
posted on January 2, 2005 08:58 PM — linkClay concerns me a hell of a lot more than Miles.
YukonCowboy says:
posted on January 2, 2005 09:48 PM — linkYeah, I know Bill Clay had some success at UAB or wherever it was but he seems to be stuck on the 4-2-5 scheme instead of using what best fits the players and the talent. Maybe with more talent he'll fare better?? I've set next to Coach Miles and his family at the OSU Final Four pep rally this past year. You couldn't possibly ask for a nicer person or better family man. I'm sure he will give LSU 100% and maybe he'll be successful. I just wasn't impressed with the play calling this year at all. If it turns out the plays were exclusively being called by Mike Gundy then heaven help OSU next year because that's who we're getting. But if Les was pulling the strings I know most Cowboy Alumns were pretty disappointed in what "might have been" had our guys been put in a better position to win.
Good luck to you! I hope he does well. I'll probably root for LSU if Miles is there, unless of course it's against us.dave frey says:
posted on January 3, 2005 04:13 PM — linkI can't imagine Muschamp staying on at LSU if Saban offers to bring him to Miami. Would be nice thought. Would also help recruiting. People here are seriously nervous about this Clay guy. However, in Miles' press conference, he said the defensive scheme at OSU was based on the talent they have, and wouldn't necessarily be the same at LSU. That's somewhat encouraging.
From Big 12 College Football - Fanblogs.com
pinged on Jan 3, 2005 4:13 PMThe Daily Oklahoman is reporting that a press conference is being arranged to announce that OSU offensive coordinator Mike Gundy will be promoted to head coach. Gundy will succeed Les Miles, who this morning accepted the LSU head coaching position. For...
From Big 12 College Football - Fanblogs.com
pinged on Jan 3, 2005 4:17 PMThe Daily Oklahoman is reporting that a press conference is being arranged to announce that Oklahoma State offensive coordinator and assistant head coach Mike Gundy will be promoted to head coach. Gundy will succeed Les Miles, who this morning accepted...
davey says:
posted on January 3, 2005 06:39 PM — linkCongrats to Skip, Les Miles was the best choice "available". Major college experience, NFL experience, success in both, clean program, strong in academics, family man, no baggage, asst. coaches want to follow him, Texas recruiting inroads, etc. Hopefully no more Jimbo playcalling. We gotta wonder about our previous talent evaluation: how did Clausen and Lefors get away???
dave frey says:
posted on January 3, 2005 08:05 PM — linkClausen was at LSU and left, Lefors probably never seriously considered LSU, because we had JaMarcus Russell and Matt Flynn sitting on the bench behind Matt Mauck and Marcus Randall. Clausen and LeFors probably figured they'd never see the field at LSU. Now that Russell and Flynn have (so far at least) been disappointments, I imagine both wish they were Tigers, because the starting job is wide open for next year.
Randy says:
posted on January 3, 2005 08:25 PM — linkDo you know who the happiest person in Oklahoma is now that Lester Miles is no longer the head coach at OSU????
Randy says:
posted on January 3, 2005 08:38 PM — linkSome interesting gossip has come to light here in Oklahoma over the past 24 hours....
Supposedly Les Miles was going to be the LSU AD's choice to replace Saban had he left for the NFL a year earlier....
The LSU AD contacted Les Miles on the Monday before OSU played Ohio State in the Alamo Bowl and told Miles he could not tell anyone that LSU had contacted and that if he, Miles, did, they LSU would deny it and there would be no further discussions. Miles agreed to this demand. Secret nogotiations were held throuighout the week and New Year's Day LSU offered and Miles accepted the job at LSU. The first person Miles told was now OSU head coach Mike Gundy. Miles and his wife Kathy and their kids went to Gundy's residence during the Rose Bowl and told Gundy that he was leaving OSU. There is considerable discussion going on among OSU alumni & boosters as to how this whole affair came down. There was never a question if Miles left as to who would replace him. Gundy has had the job sowed up for for some time because he is a favorite of T. Boone Pickens the wealthy oil man who gave OSU 70 million dollars two years ago.From Conference USA College Football - Fanblogs.com
pinged on Jan 4, 2005 10:13 AMA day after Louisville AD Tom Jurich considered firing Bobby Petrino but opted to honor his contract, Petrino apologized for the media circus created by his interest in the LSU opening during the week leading up the Liberty Bowl....
