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Tennessee
In the most prestigious available job in the country, there were many top coaches looking praying to be called the next head coach. Guys like Butch Davis, former Miami (FL) coaching great and current UNC coach, and Brian Kelly, current Cincinnatti head coach who turned Central Michigan and Cincinnati into great teams in a very brief time, were available for this job. But, at the end of the day, the former USC Offensive Coordinator and former Oakland Raiders head coach got the job. It’s safe to say he would have gotten a big job like this if he stayed in college coaching, but his ties to the pros helped him even more. He needs to get a solid recruiting class in there and start to show some signs of life in that terrible offense. Also, there is a very good possibility that he may bring his father, Monte Kiffin, defensive coordinator extraordinaire for the Tampa Bay Bucs, along with him.
Winner:Lane Kiffin
Clemson
While not as prestigious as Tennessee, Clemson fans and staff feel they are entitled to win the ACC each year. The problem with Tommy Bowden was that he had the talent to do it. The next head coach will have to convince CJ Spiller to stay, but will have a young and experienced offensive and defensive line and a highly touted QB in Willy Korn. Dabo Sweeney is the current interim coach and has done a great job. He will be the next coach of the team and could continue Bowden’s recruiting classes while being a better coach.
Winner:Dabo Sweeney
Washington
About 5 years ago it was USC and Washington fighting for the Pac-10 crown every year. After some terrible seasons, Washington is once again looking for a change. They wanted Lane Kiffen, but he’s now a Volunteer. They wanted Gary Pinkel of Missouri, but he just signed an extension. Chris Pederson of Boise State is the best option, but word is that he loves it in Boise and may not leave for any job. Tim Brewster makes sense because of his quick turnaround for Minnesota is exactly what Washington needs. Also, Dennis Franchione is rumored to be a top contender, though I really feel there are much better options.
Top Contenders:Dennis Franchione, Chris Pederson, Tim Brewster
Syracuse
Over the past few years, ‘Cuse has been the worst team in the lackluster Big East. With the likes of all time greats like Jim Brown and current NFL stars like Donovan McNabb, Syracuse has tradition and the potential to be a Big East contender. When watching their team this season, they lacked overall depth at many positions, but they definitely had some talented players that the new coach will inherit. While they won’t get the Butch Davis-es or the Mike Leach-es, some smaller school guys may be just as good. The top candidate as of now is Turner Gill, whose record at Buffalo isn’t great but his coaching ability has not been overlooked. He may, however, be holding out for the Nebraska job, if it ever opens up. Also, Skip Holtz from East Carolina looked like one of the best coaches in the country when he started the season, so he could be looking for a bigger job. And, the best of the bunch in my opinion, Randy Edsall of UConn, who has made this UConn team that has few big time players, winners because of tough defense, tough running game, and great coaching.
Top Contenders:Randy Edsell, Turner Gill, Skip Holtz
Mississippi State
This had to be a long time coming. Sly Croom has been on the hot seat nearly every season he has been the coach. While he had a decent season a year ago, he hasn’t have any consistency and has been nearly overtaken by Vanderbilt to become the worst team in the SEC yearly. He did resign, so I would assume he’ll get a coordinator job somewhere. They will probably like to look in conference, and the best option would be Dan Mullen of Florida. But, with a great defense already, Bud Foster of Virginia Tech could be an option. And, let’s not forget that the last Utah coach to go to the SEC wasn’t bad (Urban Meyer), so Kyle Whittingham could be a great option.
Top Contenders:Dan Mullen, Bud Foster, Kyle Whittingham
Purdue
While this job has been locked up all season, as coach Joe Tiller announced his successor, I would like to point out something Tiller has said over the last few years. He said many times, not pointing out anyone in particular, that kids don’t care anymore. Guys run out of bounce instead of cut up-field, kids have tons of off-the-field issues, and far too many don’t care about college, only what is after college. Tiller is absolutely right. It may not be tied, but I have noticed that Purdue’s last two quarterbacks, Kyle Orton and Curtis Painter, were hyped as the best at their position coming into their senior season. Both were benched mid season and struggled throughout. I don’t know them personally so I can’t say much on the subject, but the idea of the NFL Draft may have had an unnecessary impact on their team’s season.
Winner:Danny Hope
Kansas State
With Bill Snyder back as coach, the Wildcats should have a shot once again. When he left in 2005 to retire, he was the all-time winningest coach in school history, and the only reason that they are even division one most likely. When he left and gave the reins to Ron Prince, things looked ok. But that didn’t last long. In Prince’s 3 seasons, they were 0-9 vs. Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas combined. He only had one winning season, his first season, in which he had all of Snyder’s players. He was 3 -13 away from home, something that can’t happen in the Big 12 if you wish to compete. The only bright spot was that Prince was 2-0 vs. Texas, for whatever reason. But, with Bill Snyder back in charge, Kansas State fans should see a lot more bright spots very soon.
Winner:Bill Snyder
Miami (OH)While this was a little unexpected, it may be a time for change. Head coach Shane Montgomery just recently resigned, after going 17-31 with Miami (OH) since 2005, only boasting one winning season, his first, in which he went 7-4. This year he finished the season with a 2-10 record, with only 1 win in conference. It’s too early to see who may be the next coach, and a mid-eastern FCS coach or a MAC assistant may be the best option.
Top Contenders:Unknown as of now
Bowling Green
To me, this is the biggest surprise so far of all the firings as of now. While they weren’t dominating the conference, they were competitive every year he was there, posting 5 winning seasons out of the 6 years he was there. He finished with a respectable 44-30 record, won or tied his conference 3 times, and went to three bowl games. Similar to Miami (OH), Bowling Green could look inside the MAC or the FCS ranks around the area to find their replacement. It is still too early to pick out a leading candidate however.
Top Contenders:Unknown as of now
WyomingIt’s weird to think but this 4-8 team, 2nd to last in the Mountain West, beat Tennessee a few weeks ago. Well, after another losing season, coach Joe Glenn was fired after 6 seasons and a 30-41 overall record. The word is, however, is that Dave Christensen will be the next coach, as his Missouri offense has been among the best in the nation. Walker and Anderson would be good options too, but they seem to have their sights set on Christensen.
Winner:Dave Christensen
Utah StateWhile it may not be a highly coveted job, Utah State has quite a few suitors looking to take the job. DeWayne Walker of UCLA makes sense, but he will most likely rather wait for a bigger job. Gary Anderson of Utah would be an ideal option, but he may also be looking for a program with a little more success. The top candidate right now is former coach John L. Smith, who was 15-18 with the team, much better than Brent Guy was.
Top Contenders:DeWayne Walker, John L. Smith, Gary Anderson
San Diego StateThis job being open is a case of a bad program thinking they are much better than they are. Chuck Long didn’t have great success there, but no one really had in the past. The team was faced with acedemic issues along with much more, and Long was changing that. He should land on his feet and get a job somewhere, becoming another head coach in 5-6 years. They have the same candidates as Wyoming and Utah State for the most part, but the new one is Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo. He has ties to San Diego and would like to return, which would be a great hire for the Aztecs.
Top Contenders:DeWayne Walker, Ken Niumatalolo, Gary Anderson
New Mexico State
After another poor year for the pass happy Hal Mumme-lead team, he is out as head coach. They finished 3-9, including 1-7 in WAC play. This probably isn’t a coveted job by most because of the conference they are in (non-BCS and having to get past Boise State and Fresno State) and the lack of overall talent. The next coach will have some receiver weapons, but a new quarterback and a lackluster unit. Good luck next coach.
Top Contenders:Unknown as of now
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Hot Seat
Notre Dame?
It’s time that the Charlie Weis era ended in South Bend. Nothing good has come from him. He won his first two years, with a team of Tyrone Willingham’s guys which included Brady Quinn. In 2007 and 2008, he was terrible, with a combined record or 9-15 record. This is Notre Dame. He should be able to recruit and win on accident. Also, a report I heard when he was just hired really set the stage. After he accepted the offer with Notre Dame, New Orleans offered him a bigger contract. Instead of saying “No I’m at my dream job” he said to Notre Dame “Match this offer or I’m leaving”. That, coupled with disrespect to the alumni, should really be the straw on the camels back to get him out. Butch Davis would be the perfect hire. Skip Holtz also has the bloodlines to make a strong case for the job. Also, there are rumblings about Urban Meyer, but that is yet to be seen. It should very interesting to see what happens with the most prestigious school in all of college sports.
Top Contenders:Charlie Weis, Butch Davis, Skip Holtz
Auburn?I really don’t think Tuberville will loose his job for two reasons. One, there isn’t anyone great to replace him that would really want this job over others. And two, he has the record and past to prove his is a great coach. This is his 2nd losing season in his 10 years at Auburn, the 1st being his 1st season. He has an 85-40 record. He is 52-30 in the best conference in the country. He is 5-3 in bowl games, including 4 or his last 5. He has 2 western division titles and one SEC title. He went 13-0 in 2004 which ended with a Sugar Bowl victory. And finally, he was 7-3 versus Alabama in the Iron Bowl. There may not be a better fit for Auburn that Tuberville.
Top Contenders:Tommy Tuberville, Brian Kelly, Dan Mullen
Michigan?To Michigan fans everywhere, this needs to happen. I said from the get-go that the running option won’t work in the physical, run stuffing Big Ten. If West Virginia last season was in the Big Ten, they would have not been ranked as high as #2 in the country. I don’t think they can afford to “wait for the recruits Rodriguez will get” because it still won’t work. A hire like Harbaugh or Brian Kelly would give this team the old smash mouth football they used to play when they were successful with Chad Henne and Mike Hart just a season ago. It may cost some money, but Harbaugh and Kelly won’t have 3-9 seasons at a place like Michigan, ever, not even in years one and two.
Top Contenders:Rich Rodriguez, Jim Harbaugh, Brian Kelly
West Virginia?West Virginia is not as prestigious as any of the three schools above, but that have some things that the schools above don’t have. They have a great rushing offense, one of the best in the country. They have Noel Devine, a future 1st round running back. They place in the easiest conference in college football. I don’t get why Bill Stewart was the pick for the Mountaineers, but they have a chance to change that now. I doubt they could find a guy to run the spread offense like they did with Rodriguez, so a smart coach is needed. Bud Foster would be great to help that always beaten defense, and keep the offense on track. Turner Gill could run the option like the old Nebraska teams did before him, and still start to ease themselves away from that. In either case, Bill Stewart does not look like the smart pick.
Top Contenders:Bill Stewart, Bud Foster, Turner Gill
Best Available
1. Mike Leach-Texas Tech Coach
2. Butch Davis-North Carolina Coach
3. Lane Kiffen-Fmr. USC Off. Coor; Fmr. Raiders coach
4. Brian Kelly-CIN Coach
5. Gary Patterson-TCU Coach
6. Chris Pederson-Boise State
7. Kyle Whittingham-Utah Coach
8. Tim Brewster-Minnesota Coach
9. Bobby Johnson-Vanderbilt Coach
10. Brent Venables-Oklahoma DEF Coor.
11. Brady Hoke-Ball State
12. Bud Foster- VT-DEF Coor.
13. Turner Gill-Buffalo
14. Skip Holtz-ECU
15. Randy Edsall- UConn Coach
16. Dan Mullen-Florida Off. Coor.
17. DeWayne Walker-UCLA Def. Coor.
18. Pat Fitzgerald-Northwestern coach
19. Todd Graham-Tulsa Coach
20. Al Golden-Temple Coach
Others:
John L. Smith (Fmr. Utah State Coach)
Gary Anderson (Utah Def. Coor.)
Dave Christensen (Missouri Off. Coor.)
Pat Hill (Fresno State Coach)
Ron Prince (Fmr. Kansas State Coach)
Danny Hope (Fmr. Eastern Kentucky Coach)
Ken Niumatalolo (Navy Coach)
By: Tyson Lamp
In a stunning move today, Oakland Raiders Owner Al Davis fired his Head Coach Lane Kiffin after a twenty month relationship. While the move itself was expected, the way it finally went down was reminiscent of a bitter “he said/she said” public divorce.
After being critic ized over the past couple of weeks for his media silence, Davis held a no-holds-barred candid media news conference to rationalize the events that led to Kiffin’s firing.
Davis explained that Kiffin was fired for “propaganda” and “lying” that had gone on for months. Kiffin was “bringing disgrace to the organization,” Davis said, calling Kiffin on multiple times a “flat-out liar.”
Davis went on to read from a three-page letter given to Kiffin before the Week Two game against the Kansas City Chiefs, a letter that prompted by Kiffin’s comments that he has no involvement in the defense, and that coordinator Rob Ryan works directly with Davis on this point.
The rift apparently arose seven months ago. Davis said that “Kiffin wanted to his father, Monte Kiffin, to run the defense, and that Monte Kiffin wanted to do it” . Davis claims that the Raiders opted not to pursue the elder Kiffin because he was under contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Davis claims that Lane Kiffin wanted to fire defensive coordinator Rob Ryan after the 2007 season. “I can’t win with this guy,” Kiffin supposedly told Davis.
Other shell-socking tidbits were that Kiffin did not want to draft former 2007 #1 draft pick QB JaMarcus Russell, he interviewed and wanted the Arkansas head coaching position (later going to Bobby Petrino), and he was trying to get fired by the team for the past seven months.
Davis went on to answer questions regarding his 2008 free agent acquisitions, the goals of his organization and the direction he wants the Oakland Raiders to continue. That direction, in the meantime, will fall on the shoulders of newly promoted Offensive Line Coach Tom Cable to intern head coach.
Cable, a man who was a former head coach of the University of Idaho, then took the podium and said, “The bottom line is it’s up to us to win football games. … This is a good football team.”
With a BYE this week, Cable will have his first chance to right the ship in the Raiders Week 6 match-up against New Orleans on October 12th
By: Ryan Kusy
Here’s a look at the Rankings of NFL Teams so far this season, based on record, schedule, and overall play.
Week 4 Power Rankings:
1.) Cowboys: After two huge wins, and the help of rookie Felix Jones, the Cowboys are the team to beat. Number one is there spot to lose, but it doesn’t look like they will any time soon.
2.) Giants: They should have done better against Cincy, but they showed some fight and were able to battle out of a tough situation. This win should help them down the road.
3.) Titans: Having arguably the best defense in league, they will be in practically any game they play. Kerry Collins looks solid enough at QB to keep winning. The Vikings game this week should tell us just how good they will be this year.
4.) Bills: The Bills won a rough game against the Raiders, but managed to pull it out in the end. They lose WR and KR Parrish for 4 to 6 weeks, which is a large set back, but they play the Rams this week…4-0 is clearly in sight.
5.) Eagles: The Eagles only lose game on a tight one to Dallas, but they came back and shatter the whole entire Pittsburgh offense. Though Westbrook had an ankle injury in the game, we will see how bad it is.
6.) Broncos: A surprisingly good start to the season, averaging nearly 40 points a game. But I still cannot get past the fact they SHOULD have lost to the Chargers. Either way they are playing great football and Jay Cutler looks amazing with Brandon Marshall.
7.) Steelers: They suffered a pitiful lose to the Eagles this week allowing sacks left and right. Both Roethlisberger and Parker were hurt in the game, and it is already confirmed that Parker will miss next week against the Ravens.
8.) Packers: The Packers looked very impressive up until last week, but after a bad loss to the Cowboys, they looked a bit shaky. The worst news is that Al Harris has a ruptured spleen and could miss the rest of the year.
9.) Chargers: They looked like a legitimate Super bowl contender, and they clearly showed why on Monday night. They put of 48 points on the Jets and their defense had two INTs, but should have had at least 3 more.
10.) Panthers: Hey…maybe Steve Smith should have been suspended for more than two games. That or maybe a team shouldn’t give up 20 straight points after leading 10-0. An overall disappointing week for the promising Panthers.
11.) Patriots: Well it is hard to even put the Pats in the top 20 after this past week’s performance. Ronnie might just be the starting QB next week…he played well enough and scored more than enough touchdowns from that position last week.
12.) Colts: Their run defense is bad, their pass defense is bad, or well, I guess their whole defense is bad. Bob Sanders has just shown how critical he is to this defense by not even playing. His absence has left this defense, well, shocked. Injuries have plagued their team yet again this season though, unfortunate.
13.) Jaguars: Another team with a huge expectations this year that has underachieved. They did however pull of an impressive victory to the Colts, but need to become more consistent now. A game against the Texans should help…I hope. Their offensive line has been batter and bruised worse than any other team thus far, they have an excuse.
14.) Buccaneers: Brian Griese has thrown 98 times in two starts…almost 50 times a game. I wonder how long that will last. Either way he has posted two victories thus far and pulled of a nice OT against a tough Bears team.
15.) Redskins: A nice win against the Cardinals has gotten this team back on track. Clinton Portis looks very good and Santana Moss has made some huge plays to win games in the past two weeks. They need to keeping posting victories in such a tough division. They play the Cowboys next week…a huge opportunity to make their mark in the NFL.
16.) Ravens: Who knew Joe Flacco would have a 2-0 start and look rather impressive in both victories? Of course I did. A team scattered with rookies (both players and coaches) could move to 3-0 with a huge test against the Steelers this week.
17.) Saints: The loss of Shockey to this team hurts a lot. Their defense needs to step up to compliment a high-flying offense.
18.) Cardinals: Looked a little out of it against the Skins, but their offense should very well keep them in games. Best one, two WR group in the league.
19.) Vikings: Slow start, but came back to win an impressive victory under back-up QB Gus Frerotte. They have a huge test against Tennessee this week.
20.) Bears: They have lead every game going into the 4th quarter…only the best teams can finish them.
The rest of the pack:
21.) 49ers
22.) Falcons
23.) Jets
24.) Dolphins
25.) Seahawks
26.) Browns
27.) Texans
28.) Raiders
29.) Bengals
30.) Chiefs
31.) Lions
32.) Rams
Who is JT O’Sullivan?
by: Eric Galko
I don’t think anyone knows much about JT O’Sullivan. Not management, not Mike Nolan, and definitely not the fans. But, they will get to know him very well, at least starting with week 1. Although he will take over an inconsistent offense line, injury-prone running backs, and no number 1 receivers, it should be still fun to see what this sleeper quarterback has in store in San Fran.
I would first like to state that I think Mike Shanahan and Mike Martz must be arch-nemesis. Mike Shanahan hasn’t had a great QB since John Elway, and only now with jay Cutler are they getting much production, but the Broncos have found a way to make average joes into average joes with an 1,000 season.But, not to be outdone, Mike Martz goes the other route. He steers away from the stupid and unnecessary running game, and airs it out. But, he has had much success there. Former AFL quarterbacks, 6th rounds picks, washed up back-ups, all turned into fantasy football monsters.If these guys ever combined their system, they would have a greater system than the New England Patriots ALLOWED to cheat.
But, back to the main point, who is JT O’Sullivan? Is he a legit starting quarterback? Is he part of a side bet for Mike Martz? Well, I can’t answer either of those questions yet, but we can take a look at how JT O’Sullivan went from College quarterback to San Francisco’s starting QB.
It all started back at UC Davis, where O’Sullivan played his college ball. He was very successful in college, and still holds the Division 2 record for most touchdown passed in a playoff game, with 6. He was drafted by the Saints in the 6th round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He was a 3rd stringer for 2 years, until in 2003, he was traded, along with a 2nd round pick, to the Packers for cornerback Mike McKenzie. In Green Bay, he made his coveted debut. He came into his first regular season game ever, and made a name for himself. He played the final 2 plays of the game. Both kneels. Not what he was hoping for, but hey, they could have asked the kicker, right?
After the 2004 season, he was cut by the Packers, and then scooped up by the Minnesota Vikings. He played most of the year there, and was cut once again. On the day after Christmas, he received a late present, and was signed by the Panthers. But, once again, in February, he was cut once again, being left out on the street again. He signed with the Bears, but was shipped off to NFL Europe. He had a great season there, and earned NFL Europa Offensive MVP. But, on July 7th, 2007, the after the downfall of NFL Europa, he was cut by the Bears. All seemed over with for O’Sullivan.
But, a few days later, Mike Martz asked O’Sullivan to play with the Lions as a 3rd stringer. JT happily said yes, and went up to Detroit, where the real turning point in his career came. With Jon Kitna and Dan Orlovsky down with injuries, JT O’Sullivan played the final 2 preseason games alone. Then, with the 1st and 2nd string QBs still out, JT started his first 2 career NFL games. On September 16th, 2007, his mother must have been balling her eyes out as JT threw his first ever touchdown pass, a 7 yard strike to Calvin Johnson. He played the rest of the year as the 2nd or 3rd stringer (neither him or Orlovsky got a shot to play), but was released by the team at years end to make room for 2nd year quarterback Drew Stanton.
After he was cut, he was once again called by Mike Martz, this time to join him in San Francisco. Now with a few games under his belt, he felt he had a shot to really play. He couldn’t have found a better place to go, as he had to beat out 1st round bust Alex Smith and career backup Shaun Hill for the starting gig. The race as tight all off-season long, and on August 12th, 2008, Mike Nolan gave JT a boost of confidence in saying he was the front runner for the job. Finally on August 22nd, just 10 days later, Mike Nolan announced that JT O’Sullivan would be the starting QB for the 49ers.
Now I hope to god people don’t think he will be the next Joe Montana, Steve Young, or even Jeff Garcia. But, he should put up some big numbers thanks to Mike Martz making any quarterback into a legit quarterback. But hey, in early 1999, if you said Kurt Warner was an MVP candidate, you would have been stupidest fantasy football player ever. After the 2002 season, you didn’t hear one ESPN talk person say “watch for Marc Bulger”. But, I will break this trend, and tell everyone, hey, this JT O’Sullivan guys is not bad….I think.
by: Eric Galko
It is not surprising that after a season with so many huge upsets across the board, teams were perfectly comfortable with making changes at the top.
A total of 18 Division IA schools have given the reigns to new coaches for their football teams. Now, that was not the case for all teams, as some were fed up with too many inconsistent or losing seasons, and some had to find replacements when their coaches went on to other jobs.
Here are the 18 coaches in new places, with what their season outlook is, coaching outlook, number of years they have to build up the program, and projected season record for the 2008 season.
Arkansas
Old Coach – Houston Nutt (Resigned, Mississippi)
New Coach – Bobby Petrino (Atlanta Falcons Coach)
Season Outlook:
After an up and down season in which he got very drastic yet mixed reviews, Houston Nutt called it quits at Arkansas. The problem with that was the fact that the two best players on the Arkansas roster bolted to the draft, possibly because he wasn’t there. McFadden was a Top 4 selection while Felix Jones was picked 23rd. The return was Casey Dick, but that’s about it, which isn’t much to look forward to.
Coaching Outlook:
Bobby Petrino is a great college coach, no doubt about that. But, his resume as a quitter on his team (left Louisville out of the blue, then left the Falcons after 13 games) isn’t good for future recruiting classes. But, for the time being, he has a decent QB to mold into another NFL draft pick, he has some talent that all teams in the SEC get, and he has the experience in big games. Petrino will most likely win in Arkansas as he is just a classic great college coach. But, the toughness of the SEC could scare him and damage his record, so if he doesn’t start to compete for SEC crowns early on, he could be ousted.
Years to Build: 3 Years
2008 Projected Record: 7-5
Baylor
Old Coach – Guy Morris (fired)
New Coach – Art Briles (Houston)
Season Outlook:
This team has not been to a bowl game since 1994 and hasn’t had a winning record since 1995. They have really struggled in every season, especially against Big 12 opponents. If they can get a few solid recruits and win the games they are supposed to, they could compete for a .500 record early on.
Coaching Outlook:
I was pretty surprised that Briles didn’t get any other looks from bigger schools because he has done nothing but win in Houston. He led Houston to 4 bowl games in 5 years, a team, which before he got there, had one winning season in its last twelve seasons. He also led his team to a C-USA championship. We will see if he can take a Big 12 team to the same result.
Years to Build: 3-5 Years
2008 Projected Record: 10-2
Colorado State
Old Coach – Sonny Lubick (Resigned)
New Coach – Steve Fairchild (Assistant Coach)
Season Outlook:
The Broncos have enjoyed some solid teams and have really not been able to build up a strong core of talent for their team. They have battled Colorado for recruiting in state for a while but may be losing ground now even more. They need to gain some production, as it needs help, but also to step up a little more if they wish to continue to compete in the Mountain West conference.
Coaching Outlook:
Forcing Lubick to resign was somewhat surprising as he led them to a 108-74 record and 9 bowl games. I don’t know who they think they are, but I don’t think Steve Fairchild can do much better. Fairchild has been with the team for a while now, and he knows the players and the system, but he needs to separate himself from Lubick to stay for an extended period of time.
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
2008 Projected Record: 3-9
Duke
Old Coach – Ted Roof (Fired)
New Coach – David Cutcliffe (former offensive coordinator for Tennessee)
Season Outlook:
No team has a better chance to go winless than Duke. Every season that is. How bad is Duke? They would struggle to go .500 in Division II. They make the expansion Tampa Bay Bucs from a while back look like the 2008 New England Patriots. They are just bad. Worse than bad. If any coach can lead this team to a 3 or 4 win season in year one, he should get an NFL coaching gig.
Coaching Outlook:
After posting a Job Description on the Duke Athletics website, I am surprised they still landed a decent coach. Cutcliffe was Eli Manning’s head coach and had a 44-29 record at Ole Miss. He has been the Tennessee offensive coordinator, and they have enjoyed quite a bit of success. He has a tough road ahead of him, though.
Years to Build: 5-10 Years (or until he says “Not worth it”)
2008 Projected Record: 1-11
Georgia Tech
Old Coach – Chan Gailey (Fired)
New Coach – Paul Johnson (Navy)
Season Outlook:
This team loses its heart and soul in Tashard Choice, but they have had some solid recruiting classes the past few years. The big question will be how much Paul Johnson uses the option in the ACC, which has not been the norm for a while. We will see if the current players can fit into Johnson’s system.
Coaching Outlook:
Johnson has run the option at Navy for the past 6 seasons and has had astounding success. It is still up in the air if he will run it at Georgia Tech. Did he only run the option because he didn’t have the necessary talent to run a regular offense? Would Tech hire him if he were going to run the option in the ACC? I don’t know the answer, but it should be interesting to see.
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
2008 Projected Record: 8-4
Hawaii
Old Coach – June Jones (SMU)
New Coach – Greg McMacklin (former Defensive Coordinator)
Season Outlook:
Even though they lost most of their key offensive players, this team still has a number of recruits who will carry over. Losing your quarterback is never good, but losing your three top receivers is really bad. As I said, they still have talent, but I don’t know how long it will last.
Coaching Outlook:
McMacklin is a very puzzling hire. He was the defensive coordinator for a decent defense and will be coaching a team that the only reason they won games was their passing offense. If McMacklin can’t find a way to mimic June Jones’ offense, he will struggle to go .500.
Years to Build: 1-2 Years
2008 Projected Record: 6-7
Houston
Old Coach – Art Briles (Baylor)
New Coach – Kevin Sumlin (Oklahoma)
Season Outlook:
After quite a few good seasons and solid recruiting, Houston has one of the most talented teams in the Conference USA. This team has loads of potential and has really made a name for itself the past few years. They should be looking to once again compete for the C-USA title.
Coaching Outlook:
Sumlin, who has been basically Bob Stoops’ righthand man, has finally gotten his shot to coach. He has been the co-offensive coordinator, the passing game coordinator, and the wide receivers’ coach. Sumlin will have to replace Art Briles, who really put Houston on the map for the 1st time in a while. Sumlin will need to bring his offensive expertise to keep this newfound tradition intact.
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
2008 Projected Record: 10-2
Michigan
Old Coach – Lloyd Carr (Retired)
New Coach – Rich Rodriguez (West Virginia)
Season Outlook:
After having a strong nucleus of great talent for a good 3-4 year stretch and having all those talented players back for one last go, Lloyd Carr blew it, and now all the great talent is gone to the NFL draft, including their top 2 QB’s, top 2 RB’s, Top 2 WR’s, top 2 offensive lineman, and two of their top defensive players. But, they still have some good talent, and Rodriguez brought in a collection of freshman who fit his scheme well.
Coaching Outlook:
After leaving West Virginia, many people were angry with him, just not the people in Ann Arbor. They were overjoyed for 3 reasons. One, they will finally have a system that compares with Ohio State, their archrival and current dominator. Two, they will get a very high profile coach who brings a winning attitude and a great record to back it up. And finally, he brought in the hope that Terrell Pryor would be the savior of the Michigan Wolverines. Even though he lost in the Pryor sweepstakes, two out of three isn’t back, and he should compete relatively soon.
Years to Build: 3 Years
2008 Projected Record: 6-6
Mississippi
Old Coach – Ed Orgeron (Fired)
New Coach – Houston Nutt (Arkansas)
Season Outlook:
The Rebels have not enjoyed a good season since Eli but still have some solid players. They have decent depth at the key positions and even have some good players at quarterback. With Ed Orgeron out, it should be interesting to see if all the players stay, but they really can’t get much worse than they were with him.
Coaching Outlook:
Nutt didn’t really have a defined system at Arkansas since he ran everything from I-formation to shotgun with McFadden in the backfield. At Ole Miss, Nutt has some talented players and can hopefully let his mind be creative a little and move the few special players he has around. I wouldn’t expect too much out of him in year one because this team is rather a mess, but in year 2 or 3, they should start to compete.
Navy
Old Coach – Paul Johnson (Georgia Tech)
New Coach – Ken Niumatalolo (former Offensive Coordinator)
New Coach – Ken Niumatalolo (former Offensive Coordinator)
Season Outlook:
It is safe to say that none of the Navy players will be going anywhere unexpected. But, they won’t be getting any 4 or 5 star recruits either. This team has to play within their means and try to make due with whomever they get. That being said, they have had some solid football players, and if they use the option again, they could compete.
It is safe to say that none of the Navy players will be going anywhere unexpected. But, they won’t be getting any 4 or 5 star recruits either. This team has to play within their means and try to make due with whomever they get. That being said, they have had some solid football players, and if they use the option again, they could compete.
Coaching Outlook:
Niumatalolo will be faced with a daunting and almost unfair position. He has to replace the only coach to make the Midshipmen contenders since the 1960s and 70s. Paul Johnson ran the option to perfection and beat all the teams he had to. If Ken wants to win, he should not stray away from that at all, or else he will be out in no time at all.
Niumatalolo will be faced with a daunting and almost unfair position. He has to replace the only coach to make the Midshipmen contenders since the 1960s and 70s. Paul Johnson ran the option to perfection and beat all the teams he had to. If Ken wants to win, he should not stray away from that at all, or else he will be out in no time at all.
Years to Build: 3-5 Years
2008 Projected Record: 3-9
Nebraska
Old Coach – Bill Callahan (Fired)
New Coach – Bo Pellini (LSU Offensive Coordinator)
Season Outlook:
Bill Callahan may not have been a good coach, but he was a very decent recruiter. The future star of this team is Marlon Lucky, who reminds me of Reggie Bush, except with a little less agility but more willingness to go up the middle for tough yards. This team also has a decent offensive line on which to build.
Coaching Outlook:
Pellini was the former offensive coordinator for the national championship LSU Tigers, which is a great testament to him. LSU has had a very solid offense the past few years with JaMarcus Russell and Matt Flynn at QB, both doing very well, as well some great WR’s such as Craig Davis and Dwayne Bowe, both of whom were 1st round draft picks. If Pellini can build with what he has at Nebraska, he can get many top prospects just because of Nebraska’s prestige. But, if he doesn’t produce quickly, they won’t hesitate to find another big name.
Northern Illinois
2008 Projected Record: 5-7
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
Old Coach – Joe Novak (Retired)
New Coach – Jerry Kill (Southern Illinois)
New Coach – Jerry Kill (Southern Illinois)
Season Outlook:
Northern Illinois was good for a while, but as of late they have really struggled, including a 2-10 season a year ago. This team has not had any great recruiting classes and will really struggle with the emergence of Illinois in the Big Ten. They need to take advantage of being in one of, if not thee, worst conference in Division I football.
Northern Illinois was good for a while, but as of late they have really struggled, including a 2-10 season a year ago. This team has not had any great recruiting classes and will really struggle with the emergence of Illinois in the Big Ten. They need to take advantage of being in one of, if not thee, worst conference in Division I football.
Coaching Outlook:
Kill has really had success in the lower levels of college football, leading Southern Illinois to a solid playoff appearance. Kill had tons of success, and has a 104-57 record in his entire coaching career. Northern Illinois is a somewhat decent program but has not been really good since Garret Wolfe two years ago.
Kill has really had success in the lower levels of college football, leading Southern Illinois to a solid playoff appearance. Kill had tons of success, and has a 104-57 record in his entire coaching career. Northern Illinois is a somewhat decent program but has not been really good since Garret Wolfe two years ago.
Southern Methodist (SMU)
2008 Projected Record: 6-7
Years to Build: 3-5 Years
Old Coach – Phil Bennett (Fired)
New Coach – June Jones (Hawaii)
New Coach – June Jones (Hawaii)
Season Outlook:
The team returns Justin Willis, who was a solid starter for only being a sophomore. They have had some decent recruiting classes and have been projected to have a winning record the past few years due to all that talent.
The team returns Justin Willis, who was a solid starter for only being a sophomore. They have had some decent recruiting classes and have been projected to have a winning record the past few years due to all that talent.
Coaching Outlook:
June Jones is now one of the more recognized names in college football coaching because of his miracle work at Hawaii University. He turned a player like Timmy Chang, who had very minimum ability at QB, into one of the best QB’s in history, at least stat-wise. Most notably, he helped give Colt Brennan a great chance to be a NFL Draft prospect and maybe a future NFL starter. He should be able to make them very good soon but will get the benefit of the doubt if it isn’t immediate.
June Jones is now one of the more recognized names in college football coaching because of his miracle work at Hawaii University. He turned a player like Timmy Chang, who had very minimum ability at QB, into one of the best QB’s in history, at least stat-wise. Most notably, he helped give Colt Brennan a great chance to be a NFL Draft prospect and maybe a future NFL starter. He should be able to make them very good soon but will get the benefit of the doubt if it isn’t immediate.
Southern Miss
2008 Projected Record: 9-3
Years to Build: 5 Years
Old Coach – Jeff Bower (Resigned)
New Coach – Larry Fedora (former Oklahoma State Offensive Coordinator)
New Coach – Larry Fedora (former Oklahoma State Offensive Coordinator)
Season Outlook:
Southern Miss has built up a reputation of being a solid, if not elite, contender every year as they had 14 consecutive winning seasons and 11 bowl games in that time period. They have some solid players, most notably Damion Fletcher, who is a very talented running back. They should compete once again and be one of the best in the conference.
Southern Miss has built up a reputation of being a solid, if not elite, contender every year as they had 14 consecutive winning seasons and 11 bowl games in that time period. They have some solid players, most notably Damion Fletcher, who is a very talented running back. They should compete once again and be one of the best in the conference.
Coaching Outlook:
Jeff Bower will be a legend at Southern Miss as they were a model for excellence. But, getting a guy like Larry Fedora, who was the leader of one of the best offenses in the country, could maybe help this team. They already have some good offensive players, but if they can take some of that OK State production, they can be even better.
Jeff Bower will be a legend at Southern Miss as they were a model for excellence. But, getting a guy like Larry Fedora, who was the leader of one of the best offenses in the country, could maybe help this team. They already have some good offensive players, but if they can take some of that OK State production, they can be even better.
Texas A&M
2008 Projected Record: 7-5
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
Old Coach – Dennis Franchione (Resigned)
New Coach – Mike Sherman (former Houston Texans Offensive Coordinator)
New Coach – Mike Sherman (former Houston Texans Offensive Coordinator)
Season Outlook:
The Aggies have loads of talent and may have one of the best running back duos in college in Jovorskie Lane and Mike Goodson. They also have a good running quarterback in Stephen McGee. They have not been able to keep up in the Big 12, but they have the talent and the “12th man” in their stadium, so they can still go further than expected.
The Aggies have loads of talent and may have one of the best running back duos in college in Jovorskie Lane and Mike Goodson. They also have a good running quarterback in Stephen McGee. They have not been able to keep up in the Big 12, but they have the talent and the “12th man” in their stadium, so they can still go further than expected.
Coaching Outlook:
Sherman was a very successful NFL coach especially with Green Bay. He has also helped in the development of the Texans’ offense the past few seasons. Sherman inherits a solid team, but a team without NFL style players, especially at quarterback, and McGee isn’t a solid passer. It should be interesting to see what type of offense he runs.
Sherman was a very successful NFL coach especially with Green Bay. He has also helped in the development of the Texans’ offense the past few seasons. Sherman inherits a solid team, but a team without NFL style players, especially at quarterback, and McGee isn’t a solid passer. It should be interesting to see what type of offense he runs.
UCLA
2008 Projected Record: 6-6
Years to Build: 2-3 Years
Old Coach – Karl Dorrell (Fired)
New Coach – Rick Neuheisel (former Baltimore Ravens QB Coach)
New Coach – Rick Neuheisel (former Baltimore Ravens QB Coach)
Season Outlook:
This team has loads of talent, and it is awful that they can’t compete every year. The injuries at quarterback should make this team a nervous pick to go far, but if they can find someone to lead them or their players come off injury, this team can be deadly. The Pac-10 is usually very deep, but with California and Oregon losing many key players, they have a shot to compete.
This team has loads of talent, and it is awful that they can’t compete every year. The injuries at quarterback should make this team a nervous pick to go far, but if they can find someone to lead them or their players come off injury, this team can be deadly. The Pac-10 is usually very deep, but with California and Oregon losing many key players, they have a shot to compete.
Coaching Outlook:
The last time Rich Neuheisel was coaching, he was doing a great job at Washington. He led them to a 33-16 record but was fired after he played in a NCAA tournament pool. This guy is a great college coach, and everywhere he has gone he has won.
The last time Rich Neuheisel was coaching, he was doing a great job at Washington. He led them to a 33-16 record but was fired after he played in a NCAA tournament pool. This guy is a great college coach, and everywhere he has gone he has won.
Washington State
2008 Projected Record: 9-3
Years to Build: 1-2 Years
Old Coach – Bill Doba (Resigned)
New Coach – Paul Wulff (Eastern Washington)
New Coach – Paul Wulff (Eastern Washington)
Season Outlook:
Washington State has had some decent seasons and has produced a few good pro prospects, including Alex Brink at quarterback and Jason Hill at receiver, most notably. They still have some talented wide outs, and they could surprise in the Pac-10 because Oregon lost its two best players, and California lost most of its offensive weapons.
Washington State has had some decent seasons and has produced a few good pro prospects, including Alex Brink at quarterback and Jason Hill at receiver, most notably. They still have some talented wide outs, and they could surprise in the Pac-10 because Oregon lost its two best players, and California lost most of its offensive weapons.
Coaching Outlook:
Wulff was somewhat of a surprising candidate to replace Doba since he was only the coach at Eastern Washington. Wulff was a former player and graduate of Washington State, so that probably helped him immensely. He takes over a team with some talent left over but needs to make sure he gets a good handle on Washington recruiting.
Wulff was somewhat of a surprising candidate to replace Doba since he was only the coach at Eastern Washington. Wulff was a former player and graduate of Washington State, so that probably helped him immensely. He takes over a team with some talent left over but needs to make sure he gets a good handle on Washington recruiting.
Years to Build: 2-4 Years
2008 Projected Record: 5-8
West Virginia
Old Coach – Rich Rodriguez (Michigan)
New Coach – Bill Stewart (former assistant head coach)
Season Outlook:
Even though they lost their “creator” in Rich Rodriguez, who found all of the talent for this team and implemented the system, they still have 2 possible Heisman candidates in Pat White, who was a Top 5 guy a year ago, and standout Noel Devine, who dominated as a freshman.
Coaching Outlook:
Word is that Stewart will try to keep the same system as Rodriguez had, which is very smart as he has the experience and the talent to run the system effectively. But, he has said that he wants to throw the ball more, which is great news for Pat White. He should be able to maintain an above average record for the next 3 years with Rich Rodriguez’s talent, but if he doesn’t or if he starts to struggle once Rich’s guys are gone, he will be out in a heart beat.
With all of the extreme changes at the top of ladder of coaching, it should be interesting to see how these new coaches will fare. It is never easy to step into a new coaching gig, especially at a bigger school like Michigan, Nebraska, or Arkansas.
2008 Projected Record: 11-1
Years to Build: 3 Years
The one thing that kills most coaches is the lack of production in that first season. Once the fans lose faith in the coach, it is BCS game or bust for those colleges. With all of the parity in college football, it is tough to maintain a solid winning percentage year in and out, and it shows by the drastic changes in the coaching ranks in Division I.
2008 Projected Record: 4-8
Years to Build: 3 Years
