Fanbogs - College Football Weblogs

June 27, 2006

WVU's Rodriguez to replace Bowden at FSU?

Part of the contract extension and pay increase awarded to West Virginia football coach Rich Rodriguez last week that is starting to get some play is the significant decrease in the buyout clause.

There is no guarantee, of course, Rodriguez will be at West Virginia beyond this season. There never are guarantees in the wacky world of college athletics, where coaching contracts seldom are binding. It is believed Rodriguez successfully negotiated a significant decrease in his $2 million buyout, which means he easily could be the next Florida State coach, presumably his dream job. That's assuming Bobby Bowden ever leaves; much like Penn State's Joe Paterno, he seems determined to coach until he's at least 100. That's also assuming Rodriguez is offered the position. It's a good possibility because of his ties to the Bowden family through Tommy Bowden -- Bobby's son -- his former boss at Clemson and Tulane.
No, it won't be surprising if Rodriguez isn't at West Virginia forever.

Bowden & Rodriguez have maintained close ties and Rodriguez's system definitely has some Bowden-esque qualities to it, but I'm still not convinced that the 'Noles will look outside the reservation for their next coach. As I've said several times, FSU assistant Kevin Steele is likely to be the #1 candidate when Bowden finally steps aside.

Steele was promoted to Executive Head Coach at FSU earlier this year and runs the program when Bowden is out of town.

While away from Tallahassee, Bowden places Kevin Steele in charge of the program. The buzz around Tallahassee is Steele, a Nebraska assistant from 1989-94, is a prime candidate to succeed Bowden. The buzz grew louder this spring when Bowden handed Steele a new title — executive head coach. Steele, 47, also coaches linebackers, as he did at Nebraska.

“He handles all of my office duties (when I’m gone),” Bowden said. “He’s so efficient. He could succeed anybody in my opinion.”

So, for now at least, rest easy 'Eers fans. Rodriguez is all yours for the time being, but keep an eye on Kevin Steele at FSU. If Steele bolts the 'Noles, then the FSU coaching train could be making a stop in Morgantown.

 

Comments:

  1. Diggs the Mountie said:

    posted on June 27, 2006 1:55 PM — 68.55.116.210 — linkabuse?



    He's not going anywhere!!!!

  2. Fanblogs Author Jeff Quinton said:

    posted on June 27, 2006 3:32 PM — linkabuse?



    I don't buy him leaving his Alma Mater for FSU unless something major is dangled in front of him.

  3. wveersfan said:

    posted on June 27, 2006 6:17 PM — 70.34.130.31 — linkabuse?



    This is the most speculative piece I've ever seen. Talk about fanning the flames of pure rumor ignorance.

    The lowering of the buyout was to make it more competitive with the market, not so he could get out of Morgantown.

    I know RR is a WVU grad but it doesn't take a genius to see that a lifetime job at $1-$1.5 million a year at your alma mater is a bit better than $2-$3 million per year until you have a 4 loss season.

  4. FSU0897 said:

    posted on June 27, 2006 8:04 PM — 12.227.149.133 — linkabuse?



    Keep him...not because he is not a great coach, but we have a great candidate in Steele right there in-house. I could live with that choice.

  5. Gatorpilot said:

    posted on June 28, 2006 7:22 AM — 72.154.129.94 — linkabuse?



    "Executive Head Coach?" "Runs the team when Bowden's out of town?" Isn't this just another way of saying that Bowden's a gray hood ornament on the jalopy known as FSU, and Steele's pretty much running the show over there now?

    If so, his 'record' isn't too hot yet! :)

  6. Mike said:

    posted on June 28, 2006 11:55 AM — 66.184.191.98 — linkabuse?



    Something major like a multi-million dollar, long-term contract with a storied program in one of the best conferences in the country at a school with one of the nicest facilities in college football?

  7. poz4ua said:

    posted on June 28, 2006 3:33 PM — 63.233.124.244 — linkabuse?



    "one of the best conferences in the country." please the acc is a joke. they need to stick to basketball.

  8. Tampa Hurricane said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 9:57 AM — 24.96.199.254 — linkabuse?



    poz4ua do you know anything about college football??? The ACC is a powerhouse conference in multiple sports (football, baseball, basketball).

  9. Rock the swamp said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 2:22 PM — 152.163.100.196 — linkabuse?



    I doubt there will be any competition for Rodriguez in the Big East for a while. They will probably make it to a BCS game every year for the next five years, however i dont think that he will ever make it to the title game. And if all of a sudden he jumps into the ACC after being in the Big East for numerous years, he will be in over his head. But it would probably be good for the noles, they underachieve every year, they bring in all this talent and have sub par records, maybe rodriguez could put that talent to good use. But I'm sure he could find a better place than FSU...........
    GO GATORS!!!!!!

  10. AU03 said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 4:40 PM — 205.255.224.10 — linkabuse?



    Don't count out Louisville- they got the Mountaineers at home this year.

  11. wveersfan said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 6:47 PM — 70.34.130.31 — linkabuse?



    ock the swamp said: "And if all of a sudden he jumps into the ACC after being in the Big East for numerous years, he will be in over his head."

    Are you stoned? You think Urban Meyer can pull it off in the SEC at UF and the man who taught Meyer the Spread offense while he was at BGSU couldn't do it in the ACC?

    The rest of the ACC had better hope they never have to deal with RR armed with 5 star recruits every year.......

  12. Regan said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 7:13 PM — 64.12.116.199 — linkabuse?



    Rodriguez is a WVU alum. He won't be leaving anytime soon. If WVU becomes a national power, wins a championship, and 'Spurrier Syndrome' makes him feel like going for the NFL, that may be another story.

    All else equal, though, it looks as if WVU has a new Coach Nehlen (sp?).

  13. poz4ua said:

    posted on June 29, 2006 8:34 PM — 65.129.169.8 — linkabuse?



    hey tampa, how can you say that the acc is a power house in football?????? They have two teams. Miami and FSU. the rest are horrible. duke? unc? clemson? ga tech? nc state? va tech?virgina? wake forset. yeah those are some power house teams in football. i wouldn't say they are power houses in baseball either. good yeah. but not a power house. basketball. you got me

  14. FSU0897 said:

    posted on June 30, 2006 9:47 AM — 24.249.192.6 — linkabuse?



    wveersfan -

    There is not any arguing with a Gator fan. They all think that UF's crap don't stink no matter what topic it is. The players are perfect, their coach is perfect, their stadium is perfect, blah, blah, blah.

    Trying to rationalize anything with them is like clapping with one hand...

  15. Regan said:

    posted on June 30, 2006 3:14 PM — 64.12.116.199 — linkabuse?



    poz4ua (#13):

    The ACC from 2000-2005 (vs. Non-Conference BCS opponents) established records as follows:


    vs. Big East: 32-27
    vs. Big Ten: 6-12 (4 losses were Duke's)
    vs. Big 12: 9-7
    vs. Pac-10: 3-2
    vs. SEC: 18-23 (3 losses were Duke's)

    vs. All Other BCS Conferences: 68-71 (0.489)


    CLEM (10-6): 6-3(SEC) 3-2(BE) 1-1(B12)
    DUKE (0-8): 0-3(SEC) 0-1(BE) 0-4(B10)
    GT: (9-8): 5-6(SEC) 3-2(BE) 1-0(P10)
    FSU (9-12): 3-4(SEC) 4-6(BE) 2-1(B12) 0-1(B10)
    MARY (7-5): 1-1(SEC) 6-4(BE)
    MIA (3-1): 1-1(SEC) 1-0(BE) 1-0(B12)
    UNC (5-10): 1-0(SEC) 3-4(BE) 0-3(B12) 0-2(B10) 1-1(P10)
    NCSU (8-4): 2-2(BE) 3-0(B12) 3-2(B10)
    UVA (9-9): 1-2(SEC) 6-5(BE) 2-2(B10)
    VT: (4-2): 0-1(SEC) 4-0(BE) 0-1(P10)
    WF (4-6): 0-2(SEC) 2-2(BE) 0-1(B12) 1-1(B10) 1-0(P10)


    While I'm unable to agree with Tampa Hurricane on the ACC being a Powerhouse now, I believe that the ACC (since expanding) is a powerhouse in-the-making, and will be soon enough.

    However, I just wanted to get the stats down on the mid-level ACC teams - they are better than you appear to think.


    Source:
    http://football.stassen.com/records/confres.html

    Great site for raw numbers.

  16. HARPO said:

    posted on June 30, 2006 6:02 PM — 71.156.89.94 — linkabuse?



    God dang man, how can u say acc is a joke?? they have without a doubt in MOST normal years 3 of the top 7 teams in the nation........

    va tech

    miami

    fsu


    who does the bigten have lately?? ohio state and THATS IT.. the other teams mich and psu have sucked for most part last 5 years

  17. FSUman79 said:

    posted on June 30, 2006 10:32 PM — 192.251.125.85 — linkabuse?




    Rock The Swamp.....................please go back to the half-way house where you came from; obviously the treatment did not work. You have been swoon into that cult called the GAYtor Nation, and don't know any better. You might need a one-to-one with Dr. Phil!!!

    (I VOMIT ORANGE AND BLUE!)

  18. Tampa Hurricane said:

    posted on July 5, 2006 1:56 PM — 24.96.199.254 — linkabuse?



    Rodriguez would be crazy to leave WVU to take a job at FSU. Sure FSU is in a better conference, but WVU should be able to control the big east for years to come. When you consider the the next level of teams in the big east after WVU are UL and USF, you can see the WVU may be able to have a hold on the conference titles from the big east like miami had in the past.

  19. Renegade06 said:

    posted on July 11, 2006 11:50 PM — 216.220.208.232 — linkabuse?



    Poz4ua...
    What are you talking about FSU and Miami yes are Power house's, but Va Tech and Clemson are also solid way above average teams. Va Tech were two games away from playing in a BCS Bowl game and if Clemson would've caught a couple breaks they would've had a better season also. Do you not watch sports? The ACC will always have three or four national contenders but they also always have four or five quality teams give or take. I can only see one or two conferences better. (Those being the SEC and Big 12 I think the ACC and Big 10 are eqqual)

    And as for baseball you must be stupid, totally unaware of standings, records, and rankings. UNC played for the national championship and didn't loose a game in the tournament until the CWS. If I can recall Clemson was the National #1 seed and Georgia Tech was #8 if I'm correct. FSU, Miami also made the tournament. And Virgina had a very solid record this year. Power house? YES!! You need to do your homework before you make a comment about somethin you don't know about.
    No disrespect intended, that's my opinion

  20. cctke455 said:

    posted on July 12, 2006 12:48 PM — 129.71.136.181 — linkabuse?



    I want a source for this rumor...Something with Coach Rod's comments. Coach Rod has connections with Boddy Bowden, but would he actually be dumb enough to leave WVU. I don't think so. He built the WVU program. He is the savior of the Big East. It's better to create your own legend than follow a legend.

  21. Diggs the Mountie said:

    posted on July 19, 2006 1:10 AM — 68.55.116.210 — linkabuse?



    It’s a little-known fact that all eight of our teams over the last two years have played in a bowl game! There’s no other conference in the country that can lay claim to that fact.

  22. Chris said:

    posted on July 19, 2006 2:07 AM — 24.125.200.187 — linkabuse?



    If so, Virginia Tech will have a whole new reason to despise Florida State. WVU rival coach goes to FSU the unbeatable school.

  23. Drew said:

    posted on July 19, 2006 11:58 PM — 66.67.105.95 — linkabuse?



    Does anyone here happen to know where Bowden coached prior to going to Florida State??? anyone???

    I will give you three letters:

    W-V-U

    And all because he couldn't beat Pitt. Wow times have changed. So before you go saying that he would not be able to handle it, listen to this. In College, alot of it has to do with being able to recruit, and he can sure as hell do that. Do i think that Coach Rod should leave WVU? No. he has a legend here now. Do i think he could win at Florida State? Definitely! Did anyone think that after stinking it up for the Cleveland Browns that Billichek would win 3 super bowls in 4 years? or that Pete Carrol would be able to turn USC back into a national power after that pro debacle? Coach Rod with the better recruits would be able to go for a national championship.

    When it comes down to it though, Coach Rodriguez's sense of loyalty will keep him at WVU, and West Virginia will join Penn State, Iowa, and potentially Florida State and Grambling as one of the longest dynasty's between 2 coaches.

  24. collin b. said:

    posted on July 31, 2006 11:09 PM — 70.157.7.231 — linkabuse?



    thsi will turn out great

  25. Mike said:

    posted on August 3, 2006 5:23 PM — 68.84.21.218 — linkabuse?



    It's so funny to see UF fans talking trash about FSU, when FSU flat owned UF through the 90's when UF was great. FSU also has two National Titles to the Gators one, in half the time playing football. Just remember folks, both of FSU's National Titles went through the swamp but in UF's best year, they still couldnt win in Doak. UF=Joke.

  26. mousecrap said:

    posted on August 7, 2006 9:44 AM — 12.183.64.2 — linkabuse?



    Many of the ACC fans are what I like to call ACC blind, just as in basketball and now football. They think they are aways the best conference. The ACC is one of the best in the country but not the best. Just look at the preseason rankings.
    2 Big East Teams in the top 15 only one ACC team. Big surprise the 2 teams they have in the top 20 are the same teams that are always there VT and FSU, the rest of the teams are mid level at best.
    The BIG EAST is still better even after being raided by the ACC.

  27. Regan said:

    posted on August 7, 2006 12:13 PM — 208.104.83.149 — linkabuse?



    mousecrap (#26):

    Actually, the same can be said for most conferences, specifically the SEC, Big Ten, and Pac-10; this is due to, of all things, the rampant adoration we all have for our teams and, by extension, the conferences they play in.

    Having said that, you have a point on about the Big East and the top 25; however, I will point out that most pre-season ratings are a reflection of the success of the various teams' success in the previous Bowl season.

    WVU got a huge pickup from a great win in the Sugar Bowl, and Louisville has been riding a wave of momentum ever since they got within a Hester of beating my 'Canes back in '04.

    Right now, the ACC has more top-to-bottom talent, and with Clemson, GT, UVA, NCSU, Maryland, and BC, the ACC is simply deeper...

    The ACC is still (IMHO) behind the Big Ten and SEC in terms of overall depth and talent, but that gap will close over the next ten years as the dust settles from the recent conference re-shuffling...

  28. Diggs the Mountie said:

    posted on August 8, 2006 7:48 PM — 68.34.52.84 — linkabuse?



    I know this is random.......but how could an organization like EA sports mess up so badly? Pat White right handed? I know this can be fixed on the game...... but WTF?

  29. Zac said:

    posted on August 9, 2006 3:03 PM — 209.36.193.14 — linkabuse?



    It doesn't matter whether or not Coach Rod's "buy-out" was adjusted. It doesn't matter whether or not there's "Steele" in the FSU house, nor does it matter if he sticks around, takes over for Bowden, or goes elswhere. It doesn't matter what type of relationship Coach Rod has with the Bowden family. It doesn't matter whether or not the ACC is a "power house" in more than one sport, or whether or not it's a better conference than the Big East. It doesn't matter if UF hates UFS, who hates UM, who hates Va Tech, who hates WVU, who hates Pitt, etc. It won't matter whether or not Lousville beats WVU or the other way around, come November. What matters is this:

    You can take the boy out of the mountains, but you can't take the mountains out of the boy. No matter what, he's always going to come home eventually. Get used to it, college football fans, Coach Rod has come home. Nuf said about that.

    poz4ua - Didn't Va Tech beat Miami for the ACC football title, in their 1st year in the ACC?

    TampaHurricane - USF? This year, watch out for Pitt. USF, watch out for them next year, maybe the year after.

  30. Andre Clark said:

    posted on August 9, 2006 4:52 PM — 132.48.241.11 — linkabuse?



    The Bowden name has too many opportunities to stay in Tallahassee. Tommy or Jeff I think the table is set. Mickey is not going to go anywhere and a loyal advocate of the name. If Clemson does not have great seasons through the remainder of TB's contract...He will beat Jeff to the seat to be the face of "Seminole Nation". I think the table was sent for Bobby to give the reigns over to Jeff. I think Jeff has has more than enough time to make something happen. He needs to move on. Tommy has turned around a program. That speaks volumes. Taking a friend of the family from a program that he just turned around (WVa) in a conference that he is going to run...Not a smart bet. By the way South Florida is in that conference. Their recruting is moving up. High School atheletes are going their when not offered by the Big 3. I look for them to cause the Mountaineers problems in the near future.

  31. HeedNole said:

    posted on August 11, 2006 1:20 PM — 71.56.115.241 — linkabuse?



    Why do gator fans/alumni have to be in every blog known to man concerning every team in the southeast? Can't you guys just settle down, and for once, not stir the pot? No wonder you have more hated rivals than any other team in the nation!!
    Please leave the blogs alone and go create another hatesite . . . and who the hell created the "Chosen one" website? You guys destroy everything you possess. Meyer will never win a national championshiop at Florida. You all won't let him.

  32. Frazier said:

    posted on August 15, 2006 2:52 PM — 146.243.4.157 — linkabuse?



    I think Rodriguez is settled at WVU. He wants to turn that program into what FSU used to be to the ACC, and contend for titles. However, I think they are overhyped this year. If anyone wants to debate some college football, they are always welcome to the323.blogspot.com, where it's all college football, all the time.

  33. Alex said:

    posted on August 17, 2006 2:13 AM — 70.21.69.9 — linkabuse?



    ACC a joke? How was that VT game in Morgantown last year? Just enjoy your free ride to a BCS bowl and try not to lose to Louisville (another team VT beat last year).

  34. skyhigh said:

    posted on August 17, 2006 1:06 PM — 157.182.83.223 — linkabuse?



    alex, ya ok VT did beat wvu, but that was the first game for slayton in the season and he did not even play the whole game. white wasn't even playing yet either since wvu was still playing with the always injured bednarik. so there was a little different team playing then than when wvu won the sugar bowl. speaking of which which bowl did VT go too???? yes, VT beat louisville but not by as much as they should concidering it was a freshman QB who had only played about 4 college games ever(not to mention the whole stepping on the leg of the leading sacking player in the nation).

    and another thing, vt fans need to stop saying "o but we're in a harder conference so that's why we're not in the BCS game" that's VT's fault for leaving the Big East which there really was no reason for since they aparently think they would just dominate the conference. so instead they'll go to the supposive "powerhouse conference" (which isn't true either) and lean on the 'harder conference' crutch for their shortcoming of going to the BCS. face it you beat wvu but lost to a 7-4 team.

  35. Zac said:

    posted on August 17, 2006 1:53 PM — 209.36.193.14 — linkabuse?



    "How was that VT game in Morgantown last year?" Alex, it was disappointing. Your Hokies looked like a team that wanted the game; my Mountaineers looked tentative at times. It was no where near as exiting as that tough contest in Blacksburg the year before (VT won it.), and was almost a complete reversal of WVU's dominance over VT the year before that. The point is; last year VT had it; WVU didn't.

    So, how about it? Have you been beating down your AD's office door to get WVU back on the schedule, or are you just making noise like a lesser Hokie. I want the rivalry renewed. It's good for the fans, the media, and all of college football. I'll do my part to see it done, if you'll do yours.

  36. Terps said:

    posted on August 17, 2006 5:17 PM — 70.22.24.85 — linkabuse?



    haha the acc a joke? FSU and Miami are powerhouses and we have VT ,Clemson and middle level teams like Maryland, Gt, NC state, BC and Virginia that are decent...the acc is one of the top football conferences now,(behind the sec and big ten)

  37. skyhigh said:

    posted on August 18, 2006 12:47 PM — 157.182.83.223 — linkabuse?



    terps what are you doing in this blog??? maryland has no place here and if you wanna talk i even went to umd for 2.5 years before transfering to wvu. the fans are a joke, they don't support the team, everyone leaves at halftime, win loose whatever, by the time the band gets off the field the student section is completely barron. and yes the ACC is a joke. now i'm NOT saying that the big east is better, but i'm saying that they are not on the same level as big 10, sec, or even the big 12. even espn said in their what's hot and what's not that the big east was up and rising and the acc has been dissapointing with so many supposive superstar teams and not once being able to grab an at large bid for a bowl. and don't forget the (former big east team) miami that is the new acc pride and joy which took a spanking loss of 40-3 in the peach bowl to the back up QB at LSU.

  38. Terps said:

    posted on August 18, 2006 8:03 PM — 70.22.0.76 — linkabuse?



    skyhigh,what am I doing on this blog? I was reading it and wanted to make a comment, or am i not allowed to because it doesn't involve umd? I personally am having a great time at UMD, I'm taking it that you didn't. I'm not going to deny that umd fans do get p/oed easy but we certainly support our team. Priceton Review named UMD #1 for students who pack stadiums.

    No the ACC is NOT on the same level as the big ten or SEC, my keyword was BEHIND, i can even agree w/ you for not as good as the Big 12. But I was just saying to classify the ACC as a "joke" is ridiculous. The Big East is what I would call a joke, WVU and Louisville are the only good teams in it, Pitt is okay but usf, uconn, cinnci, rutgers? come on. I also don't see how the big east could be going up since they lost 3 out of their 5 best schools. Now there is no doubt the WVU program is on its way up, they will win the conference w/ their pathetic schedule and get into BCS games year after year. I'm not saying they don't deserve it, WVU was really good last year and should be this year, but you have to admit their schedule is weak. W/ all the BCS games WVU will land blue chip recruits in the off-season and become a powerhouse in football. But the conference as a whole is very weak.

    I think teams like Miami and FSU are down because the conference is much more competative now. FSU now has to deal w/ Miami in their conference as well as VT and BC. Before UMD randomly won the ACC in 01, and before the additions of UM,VT and BC.... FSU would destroy everyone and win the conference nearly every year. The ACC has been and always will be a basketball conference but they are on their way up in football. Anyway the whole point is w/ FSU, UM, VT,Clemson all in the top 25 and some decent middle level teams you can't call the ACC a joke.

  39. Diggs the Mountie said:

    posted on August 20, 2006 1:20 AM — 68.34.52.84 — linkabuse?



    Terps, I've said it once and I'll say it again.... "It’s a little-known fact that all eight of our teams over the last two years have played in a bowl game! There’s no other conference in the country that can lay claim to that fact".

  40. Zac said:

    posted on August 20, 2006 9:06 PM — 65.31.230.133 — linkabuse?



    Terps: Let's get something straight. You belong! You're a college football fan; you like your team; you like your school; you belong. Nuf said.

    ACC is not a joke. It's filled with class schools, hosting class teams, coached by some of the best in history. Again, Nuf said.

    WVU has a weak schedule. Time-out, my friend. It's a 12 game schedule. It may include a div.2 team, but it's a div.2 team that went 8-3 last year and brings back quite a bit of its core. (Oh, it's OK for Miami to schedule a div.2 team, though.) Point is; that 12th game makes a big difference. Last year, WVU played 11 games in the same time frame as they're playing 12 this year. They play three games on short weeks; two of them are within only 5 days of the previous game. That's less time to prepare, and less time to recover from getting nicked up.

    For WVU, everybody points to Nov. 2nd, Louisville. I say the 1st test is an emotional 1st game against Marshall. The next big test is against your boys. I expect that game to be every bit as tough as any game played against MD. Following the game against UL is an up and coming Rutgers team, our arch-rivals, Pitt, and another up & comer, USF. Don't forget; UCONN did what they did last year with a team depleted by injuries. No WVU isn't playing a boat load of Miami's, FSU's, Michigan's, or Notre Dame's, but don't be too surprised if it's Ohio St. they're playing come January.

  41. Terps said:

    posted on August 21, 2006 2:41 PM — 70.22.91.72 — linkabuse?



    Zac: I'm glad you agree that the ACC is not a joke, it clearly isn't. I think its funny when people claim it is.

    As far as WVU schedule goes, I still have to say that it is weak, or at least it is weak compared to schools schedules in the other major conferences. Marshall, although an instate rival to WVU, was 4-7 last year and I don't see them as much of a test to WVU at home. I have to say the "tests" for WVU are hopefully against my Terps, which has been a close border rivalry over the years 41-40-2 WVU I think. The other two tests come at UL and at Pitt. If WVU is truly a champ contender I don't see USF and Rutgers at home causing much of a problem for them. Not to say those teams couldn't make the first half interesting. Also as the 12 games go, I think every team this year is playing 12 games or at least most of them from what I've seen.

    I know preseason rankings aren't always on but WVU plays 1 ranked team, UL. Where a team such as Florida plays 5 ranked teams, three in a row. My Terps also play three ranked teams in a row, they have FSU at home, at Clemson then Miami and home. I'm not looking forward to those three weeks haha. Our other ranked team is your Mountaineers. Ohio State must play Texas, Mich, PSU, Iowa, for another example.

    Now I'm not saying that if WVU did get to the championship they wouldn't deserve it, they proved themselves last yr against UGA. If they were playing Ohio St or whoever I wouldn't be too suprised. But they have an easier road to the champ then say Florida, Ohio State, ND,Texas, UM, FSU or other contenders.

  42. mynukidiki said:

    posted on August 21, 2006 4:02 PM — 69.180.69.106 — linkabuse?



    Mikey Andrews all the way. Don't forget the NFL came calling and he turned them down. When bobby goes, The Mik will take over, or Mark Richt will return. All other coaches won't even be considered

  43. Zac said:

    posted on August 21, 2006 6:39 PM — 65.31.230.133 — linkabuse?



    Terps. Oh, I forgot about Mississippi St. No one special, just a team from the SEC. You know; the SEC, that "best college football conference" you were talking about. No, they're not GA, but I wouldn't pencil this game in the win column till the scoreboard says so.

  44. Terps said:

    posted on August 22, 2006 2:06 PM — 70.22.41.153 — linkabuse?



    Miss St? they were 1-7 in the SEC last yr and 3-9 overall. Thats like someone saying they got a tough game against Illinois because they are in the Big Ten even though they went 0-8 and 2-9 overall. Give your team more credit then saying Miss St will be a tough game, I have some friends who go to WVU who agree they don't have many challenges this season. I think if your Mountaineers could handle UGA they can handle Miss St...

  45. J-speckle said:

    posted on August 25, 2006 12:28 PM — 216.30.198.146 — linkabuse?



    Before the ACC molested the Big East, FSU dominated that crappy conference and now a lucky FSU can still win the ACC Championship, but their days of undefeated seasons and a National Championship a game are over. WVU does play a pathetic schedule but it’s not their fault. Ask WVU fans if they would rather play Miami instead of South Florida, Va. Tech instead of Cincinnati or Boston College instead of Connecticut and they would say yes to all three!

    The most ironic thing about the whole ACC deal is that FSU suffers the most as WVU obtains a status as a conference favorite. Why would Rodriguez trade what he has now for an FSU team on a current downward spiral? I can’t stand Va. Tech, Miami and BC but I have to laugh every time one of those former Big East teams beats up an ACC “powerhouse” team.

    As for Va. Tech, you don’t want none this year big boys! Go Mountaineers!

  46. Zac said:

    posted on August 25, 2006 2:32 PM — 209.36.193.14 — linkabuse?



    Terps - Over the past two years, I can't tell you how many articles I've read where ACC, Big Ten, Big Twelve, and SEC advocates (media and fans alike) were quoted as saying the Big East's best are no better than their conferences' middle-of-the-road teams. If the SEC is truly the best football conference, logic dictates; a 3-9 Miss St (They are expected to be much better this year, by the way.) is equivalent to say Pitt or Rutgers. Is this true; is it even fair to say? I don't know. I can tell you this. While WVU isn't playing the #18, 12, 11, & 5 ranked teams, all in the same season, Miss St. is far removed from FL Intl., M TN St, & William & Mary. I should think Cincinnati, E. Carolina, even E. WA should be capable of handling them. Is WVU's schedule a "strong" schedule? No. Is it among the weakest schedules? No again. "By comparison," it may be weaker than those within the "better" conferences. In truth it's a challenging schedule, with no guarantees built in.

    For the time being, I'll agree to disagree. Let's see what happens as the season unfolds. In the mean time, there's this "Liz" character that implied you and I are intellectuals. I'm not going to take that. Are you?!?

  47. Zac said:

    posted on August 26, 2006 5:17 PM — 65.31.230.133 — linkabuse?



    J-speckle: As a fellow Mountaineer fan...you're killing me. I agree; it is no team's fault as to who they play or when. That's done by their respective athletic departments. Even coaches aren't allowed enough schedule input. As for WVU's schedule, it is NOT pathetic. It is NOT weak. No, it's not filled with ranked teams. It is filled with solid competitive clubs, coached by equally solid individuals.

    OK, Syracuse had a lousy year last year - New Coach. Look at WVU & Rodriguez in their 1st year: 3-8. Consider the 2nd year: 9-4. It follows; the Orange have to be better. (They can't get any worse.) Look at Pitt last year: 5-6 - New Coach. Wanna bet they're not going to do better in their 2nd year with Wannstedt. Look at USF. In only their 9th year of college football existence, and 1st year in the Big East, they went to their 1st bowl game, ever! OK, they lost to NC St, but held them to 14 pts. Va Tech & FL St couldn't do that. USF returns 14 guys on both sides of the ball. Look at Rutgers. They too return 14 guys on both sides of the ball. True, they lost Ryan Hart, but Mike Teel played well when Hart was out. Betcha he throws for as many TD's, and not as many INT's. That means more wins.

    Then, there's the 3 short weeks between games: one six-day week, TWO FIVE-DAY weeks.

    It's bad enough tussling with Terps and other fans who insist WVU has a weak schedule. Having to set the record straight with one of my own, it's killing me.

  48. Terps said:

    posted on August 26, 2006 9:24 PM — 70.22.14.180 — linkabuse?



    Zac-Yes as a college student/party animal I take being called an intellectual very offensive, just kidding. Anyway I will also agree to disagree, I don't believe WVU has a challenging schedule, only UL and hopefully, hopefully my Terps pose any challenge in my mind. But the thing you said about the conference teams is true. For example Does FSU go 8-5 last year if they were in the Big East? nope. Probably more like 10-3 or 11-2 or w/e. But its good to debate this and I guess we will just see how the season plays out. Thursday night kicks off college football, can't wait!

    J-Speckle- I agree , thats what I have been telling people. FSU got screwed over because they can no longer destroy everyone and win the conference every year. On the other hand WVU will do what FSU did to the old acc. Although I think FSU can still make a run for the title in future seasons.

  49. Renegade06 said:

    posted on August 26, 2006 11:17 PM — 216.220.208.235 — linkabuse?



    Get back on the subject, this post isn't about which conference is stronger and which one isn't. Its about Rich Rodriguez possible replacing Bobby Bowden at FSU. Can somebody please make a comment on that and get off Maryland and how good they are and wheter or not the ACC is a power conference?

  50. FoulkDiesel said:

    posted on August 27, 2006 5:19 AM — 214.13.147.10 — linkabuse?



    Your all crazy and sound like a bunch of fools. How can you say these things about the Noles. You all must be clueless like the rest of the haters. First off, they have been to more consecutive bowls that anyone and won!!! Two national championships, the most winningest coach ever, heisman winners, and the most high powered explosive teams ever. Just because the last few years they haven't played to their best, doesn't mean they suck, it's called re-building, big word for most of u. Plus the ACC has had more teams in bowl games in the past few yaers than any other conference. And u call that weak, it's called south east skills... So keep haten on my Noles, then watch them rise to the top like always. Fear the Spear!!!!!!

  51. Terps said:

    posted on August 27, 2006 7:07 PM — 141.157.100.130 — linkabuse?



    Renegade06- You yourself made a comment about how good the ACC is #19. All these blogs get off topic somewhat. Anyway I don't think Rodriguez will leave since he helped the WVU program and they have many conference titles and
    BCS games in their future.

    Foulkdiesel-Like I said I think FSU can still make championship runs. They are still a top football program.

  52. Zac said:

    posted on August 28, 2006 8:08 PM — 65.31.230.133 — linkabuse?



    Renegade06: Yours is indeed an odd complaint, given you didn't mention the FSU/Rodriguez saga even once in your comments posted as #19. Be that as it may, I've said my piece. Coach Rod is home; he's going no where. Might he consider it, if given an offer? What good leader doesn't weigh all of his options before making a decision? If it comes to it, might FSU make him an offer? Why not? What class institution with the intention of continuing its winning tradition wouldn't consider all the available possibilities? Does FSU need to? No! They've got everything they need right there in Tallahassee, just as Coach Rod has everything he needs in Morgantown.

    By the way, I for one am tired of this subject, and am glad for the diversion you, Terps, F-Diesel, and the others have had to offer. The season is almost upon us. I'm ready!!! RU?

  53. easternfan said:

    posted on September 1, 2006 12:29 PM — 67.72.98.87 — linkabuse?



    Bowden did beat Pitt while at WVU, 17-14 in '76, bounced the game winner off the goal post. However if you think RR is leaving WVU for anywhere except the NFL you just dont understand. WV is a much maligned state, sometimes deservedly, most times not. RR is a West virginian, he was going to take the Texas Tech job until Nehlen called him to tell him he was retiring. Last year it was Paterno's job, this year Bowden...forget it, wont happen. I grew up here and I understand...I was at WV when RR played and he lived next door to me. Quit posting this BS Fanblogs!

  54. Jake said:

    posted on September 2, 2006 5:09 PM — 205.188.116.133 — linkabuse?



    when bobby finally decides to leave FSU. there will be only 1 replacement. Ladies and Gentleman, i would like to introduce Florida States new head football coach. Mr Marc Richt

  55. toney said:

    posted on September 5, 2006 12:57 AM — 68.57.165.96 — linkabuse?



    Coach rod should be the next coach at miami.

  56. Randy said:

    posted on September 17, 2006 9:48 AM — 152.163.100.196 — linkabuse?



    Bobby isn't the one the seminoles have to replace. It's his sorry son Jeff. And if Bobby doesn't remove him he needs to go also!!!! Take a look at the teams offensive stats since he became the offensive coordinator and then ask yourself would we even be talking about Bobby's replacement if his son wasn't the coordinator?


  57. Ryan said:

    posted on September 17, 2006 1:21 PM — 69.253.251.65 — linkabuse?



    Jeff Bowden is the worst coach in the history of football, after last night I came to two conclusions. He has actually improved his in game calling, which isn't saying much. But the offensive players have not been prepared for a single game in the last six years. Last night they had fumbles, poor route running, Weatherford missed open receivers, open receivers dropped balls, three timeouts called in the first 5 minutes of the game, many sacks, indecision by Weatherford. there is no discipline or consistency in this offense, the talent is there just look at Anquan Boldin who was an average receiver at Florida State then went to the NFL and become an animal. I feel bad for the defense they spend the whole game on the field and play great, while the offense goes 3 and out for the first 3 quarters. Jeff Bowden took over right before the National Championship game against Oklahoma in 2000, when they scored 2 points on a safety with a team that averaged over 35 a game. He sucks and so will Florida State until he is fired.

  58. MJ Eskew said:

    posted on September 20, 2006 6:17 AM — 68.114.141.188 — linkabuse?



    Jake,I agree.I think when Bobby Bowden steps down that Marc Richt will come back and be the head coach of FSU,but Bobby Bowden is trying to set it up for his son Jeff Bowden to be the successor when he steps down which it'll never happen.But if Rich Rodriguez decides to leave WV,It would be a great move for him.Truth be told,The Big-East isn't really a highly televised football conference.Picture it like WVEERSFAN said,you give RR access to the talent rich state of Florida to get the top players that he couldn't get coaching at WV,with his style of offense.COME ON,MAN!That's a WIN,WIN situation.Think about it,WV will never get the credit in the BCS polls bc of the conference they play in.The Big East is a basketball conference with tht exception of Louisville bc they earned my respected as a football school by beating Miami bc they keep recruiting good players.Why stay at WV when they'll never get the respect in the polls when you can go to FSU and put the program back on the map bc they FSU keeps getting NFL caliber players year after year.Another reason,I don't think Steve Slaton or Pat White will stick around for their senior season.They'll both be up for the Heisman next season.But I think Richt will leave Georgia when Bowden steps down

  59. MJ Eskew said:

    posted on September 20, 2006 6:36 AM — 68.114.141.188 — linkabuse?



    Jake,I agree.I think when Bobby Bowden steps down that Marc Richt will come back and be the head coach of FSU,but Bobby Bowden is trying to set it up for his son Jeff Bowden to be the successor when he steps down which it'll never happen.But if Rich Rodriguez decides to leave WV,It would be a great move for him.Truth be told,The Big-East isn't really a highly televised football conference.Picture it like WVEERSFAN said,you give RR access to the talent rich state of Florida to get the top players that he couldn't get coaching at WV,with his style of offense.COME ON,MAN!That's a WIN,WIN situation.Think about it,WV will never get the credit in the BCS polls bc of the conference they play in.The Big East is a basketball conference with tht exception of Louisville bc they earned my respected as a football school by beating Miami bc they keep recruiting good players.Why stay at WV when they'll never get the respect in the polls when you can go to FSU and put the program back on the map bc FSU keeps getting NFL caliber players year after year.Another reason,I don't think Steve Slaton or Pat White will stick around for their senior season.They'll both be up for the Heisman next season.I'm sure they'll both enter the draft after next season.Why stay at WV knowing that, when you can go to FSU (still 1 of the top programs in the country)and get the respect you deserve as a head coach by playing in a more talented football conference,as well as the top being able to get the top players in the country?But in the end I think Richt will leave Georgia when Bowden steps down and take the job.But Honestly Mickey Andrews DESERVE the job or at least major consideration 4 the job

  60. gatorhippy said:

    posted on September 20, 2006 11:19 AM — 209.16.115.5 — linkabuse?



    Why would Richt leave UGA where he has began to establish his own legacy following the Ray "Goof" tenure and choose to come back to a place where he will be in the shadow of a legend?

    It just wouldn't make sense...

    Steele seems to be the guy being groomed for the takeover...

  61. SQ said:

    posted on September 20, 2006 9:48 PM — 208.0.27.10 — linkabuse?



    Richt,in my opinion,seemed like he wanted to stay.I remember the interview he had when he got the job.They asked if Bowden retired would he consider going back to FSU?His expression said it all.He said U never can tell with a SMILE on his face.But I feel U gatorhippy,Steele does seem to be next in line for the job.(Call it Wishful Thinking)I wish Richt would come back if Bowden retires.The offense hasn't been half as good since he left.Wishful thinking gatorhippy,wishful thinking

  62. shiguy said:

    posted on October 4, 2006 2:31 AM — 68.232.181.182 — linkabuse?



    Eskew, y are you still saying that rodriquez would leave wvu?? his whole coaching career he's wanted to coach at his alma mater school. now he's here, he's getting paid well, he gets a pay increase every year (and if you read the fine print basically anytime something good happens from a gpa increase to a winning season), and he has a talent rich team which is bringing in tons of recruiting. not to mention that because the big east doesn't have the rediculous size of the 2 division conferences he has more freedom in the scheduling. granted this year wvu doesn't play any major teams but that isn't because we don't want to. but more because of scheduling. look at the future contracts lined up. if rodriquez stays he gets to look forward to games playing michigan state, notre dame, auburn, and even florida stat. so you see there really is no reason for him to leave the school and the big east is getting publicity out the rear from mopping up it's been doing on other conferences.

  63. MC said:

    posted on October 16, 2006 11:07 PM — 71.229.22.83 — linkabuse?



    Just because FSU was once great doesn't mean that everyone wants to come there. Aside from the sunshine and the facility, what's to love about FSU? The ACC football conference? Please. And FSU fans are fickel [Who turns on the winningest coach in NCAA history? Alabama fans continue to worship Bear Bryant, in spite of the fact that he didn't win a national in his last three seasons and went 8-4 in his last campaign.]. Compared to other stadiums in the SEC and BIG 10, FSU's crowd noise and attendance is fairweather.

    Rodriquez is bigger than FSU.

  64. auditeer said:

    posted on October 20, 2006 3:05 PM — 167.121.8.1 — linkabuse?



    Ha ha ha! Where is this mighty ACC you all keep mentioning......


    Rod will never leave WVU. Name a coach in recent history that left WVU from a buyout.....

    RRod is a GOD in the state, and is coaching for his alma mater that he played ball for. He has it made in the shade.

  65. Truenolesfan said:

    posted on October 27, 2006 12:01 PM — 65.203.88.194 — linkabuse?



    Lets all be serious. Most of these blogs only capture a small percentage of how FSU fans feel. I think Bobby Bowden is FSU and think that he can retire when he is ready. Does it hurt to lose. Heck yeah, but you take the good with the bad. So the bad is now with the good to come. So get your shots in now, because when FSU rebounds it will be with a 3rd national title. Most of the schools being mentioned in this blog have never had a football dynasty. Try putting together 10 win seasons for 14 straight years. Then you can talk. Because all your doing now is making yourself look ignorant.

  66. WVUFB97 said:

    posted on October 31, 2006 11:25 AM — 68.57.171.167 — linkabuse?



    Ok! Lets end all the talk... (1) If WVU is weak and plays in a weak conference and gets weak players and can't beat anybody. Why would everybody want to copy RR's play book and Why would other colleges want him as their coach. Well the answer is easy. RR puts heart and respect into his players. FSU gets the talent filled with alot of head cases, egos, and other issues $$$. RR builds teams with talent left over from the FSU's, UF, PSU, MD, OSU. So to close SEC, ACC, PAC 10, Big Ten, Big 12, whatever u had ur time in the spotlight. Let a program that has been turned around enjoy theirs.

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