Lining Up Defensive Coordinator Prospects For 2011
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 6:41 AM CDT
in Football
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PrintAfter giving up 683 yards and 47 points to the Baylor Bears (yes, the same Baylor Bears who lost to Texas Tech Red Raiders), the Chris Cosh-led defense is now giving up an average of 428.3 yards per game (ypg), and 25.9 points per game (ppg). Throw out the aberration that was the 59-7 win over the hapless Kansas Jayhawks, and those averages soar to 444.5 ypg and 29.0 ppg.
While the Wildcat defense lacks the elite athletes that prowled the field from 1993-2003, there is simply no excuse for such ineptitude, and much of the blame must fall on the coach. Cosh has shown a lack of imagination, and an inability to put his players in the best position to succeed. As such, I feel like a change at the top of the defense is necessary. I would like to use this story (in particular, the comments section) as a kind of "nomination forum" for ideas on who should take over for Cosh when this season ends. (My preference would be for Coach Snyder to simply fire or demote him now, but I have serious doubts that this would ever happen.) After the jump, I will offer a couple of my own ideas, as well as leaving a few open slots that I will fill from the best suggestions proffered in the comments. Let's come up with a list of the top 5 potential candidates to be next year's defensive coordinator.
(Note: I have added a dream candidate at the end of the list. Let me know if you think there are better dream candidates available. Particularly ones that we might actually have a chance at, like Doeren.)
I've went a bit "off-the-beaten-path" with my two suggestions. One criteria for me is that we can't put anyone on the list that is a "moon-shot." In other words, don't suggest we hire the Alabama defensive coordinator to come here as our defensive coordinator. There is no way that someone makes that lateral move. Also, I love KSU connections, but wasn't able to find anyone who had them, who didn't either have a bit of a thin resume (Mike Ekeler, whom I loved as a player, but who needs more seasoning, in my view) or serious black marks on the resume (Jim Leavitt). However, if you feel you can make a good case for those two, or any other KSU-related guys that I may have simply overlooked, fire away, and I may add them to the blank sections.
Additionally, I'm not locked in on Sanders and Harper. If five better prospects are brought up, or I'm convinced somehow that the two guys I've got on the list aren't worthy, I'll certainly remove the two names I've already placed on the list. I'm looking forward to seeing what ideas you guys come up with to replace Cosh.
Candidate: Marvin Sanders
Current Position: Assistant Coach/Secondary, Nebraska
Experience: 18 years at various levels, including 3 as the Def. Coord. at N. Carolina under John Bunting
Age: 43
Connection to KSU: none
Bio: Nebraska Biography
Advantages of hiring him: While he's still young, he has the experience of having worked as a defensive coordinator at a D-1 school. His secondaries have also done quite well the last couple of years, and this seems to be an area of particular weakness this season.
Candidate: J.C. Harper
Current Position: Head Coach, Stephen F. Austin
Experience: 20 years at various levels, including the last 3 at SFA, whom he has turned around.
Age: 44
Connection to KSU: None
Bio: SFA Biography
Advantages of hiring him: His background is in defense, and the turnaround he has engineered at SFA is little short of miraculous. They have gone from 0-11 his first year in 2007, to 10-3 last season (including a berth in the FCS playoffs), and a 6-1 start to the 2010 campaign. He also could offer potential recruiting inroads into the state of Texas.
Candidate: Matt Wallerstedt
Current Position: Defensive Coordinator, Air Force Academy
Experience: 19 years, in various capacities
Age: 44
Connection to KSU: 1987 Alum; Grad. Asst. (1988); Linebacker/Recruiting Coordinator (2006-07)
Bio: AFA Bio
Advantages of hiring him: His ties to KSU, as well as the Manhattan area (he graduated from Manhattan High in 1984), make this a seemingly realistic hire. His background as a linebackers coach (which is also the position he focuses on at AFA) is also a positive. As a 40-something coach, he could also become a potential replacement, when Coach Snyder decides to hang up his whistle.
Candidate: Dave Lockwood
Current Position: Cornerbacks Coach, West Virginia
Experience: 21 years, including a 2-year stint (2005-06) as def. coord. at Minnesota under Glen Mason.
Age: 43
Connection to KSU: None
Bio: WVU Bio
Advantages of hiring him: His secondary is currently one of the elite in the nation, as is the West Virginia defense as a whole (including the run defense). Lockwood has previous experience as a defensive coordinator, so the "learning curve" wouldn't be too steep, and he was the recruiting coordinator at Minnesota in 2003, so he has a feel for recruiting the Midwest also. He is also a much more realistic hire than Casteel (the DC at WVU) would be.
Candidate: Andy Buh
Current Position: Defensive Coordinator, Nevada
Experience: 13 years, including two years as co-DC for Jim Harbaugh at Stanford (2008-09).
Age: 37
Connection to KSU: None
Bio: Nevada Bio
Advantages of hiring him: By far, the youngest of the suggested hires, but also -- in my view, anyway -- the most intriguing. He has 3 years as either a DC or co-DC under his belt, so he wouldn't have much of a learning curve at all. At Nevada, his recruiting area is Texas, which is also a positive, given the focus that KSU needs to have on recruiting that state. He's a Nevada alum (1996), but I think that a defensive coordinator job at a BCS school, with perhaps a promise to be interviewed for the big chair when Coach Snyder steps down in a few years would bring him in.
Candidate: Dave Doeren
Current Position: Defensive Coordinator, Wisconsin
Experience: 15 years, including 6 as a defensive coordinator at the Division 1-A level.
Age: 38
Connection to KSU: Grew up in Shawnee Mission, KS, and worked for Mark Mangino from 2002-2005, and for Bret Bielema from 2006-present.
Bio: Wisconsin Bio
Advantages of hiring him: While Doeren is very young, he is also a hot commodity. It would take a large investment in salary, as well as a head-coach-in-waiting type of contract to get him to KSU. I do think it's possible, though, because Bret Bielema is so young himself. If Doeren wants to be a head coach some day (and from his career trajectory, it's clear he does) it will have to be somewhere other than Wisconsin. With his roots in the state of Kansas, I think it's very possible that we might be able to bring him in. The way I see it, Doeren is a dream hire, that is actually quite possible.
Candidate:Tracy Claeys
Current Position: Defensive Coordinator, Northern Illinois
Experience: 15 years, most of it as a defensive coordinator at various levels.
Age: 41
Connection to KSU: 1994 alum.
Bio: N. Illinois Bio
Advantages of hiring him: Claeys isn't as "hot" name-wise as Doeren, so it wouldn't take a large investment in salary, or a HCIW contract to get him to KSU. Given his roots in the state of Kansas (born and raised in Clay Center, KS), and the fact that he graduated from KSU, as well as the fact that he's got a lot of experience as a DC, and runs a pretty solid defense at Northern Illinois, Claeys might be something of a dark horse candidate. Much more extensive advantages are listed out in the comments below.
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Surprise
I think we all could have guessed we’d be seeing a post like this before the end of the week. Not that it will make a difference because Snyder won’t fire Cosh, even if the drop-off from Koenning to Cosh is drastically apparent (it does beg the question: How much was Cosh involved in the game-planning and game-day adjustments last year as “co-defensive coordinator”?).
That said, I think this is an inspired post. So let me toss in a few names into the mix.
Long shots:
Jeff Casteel , West Virginia (May not wish to leave a successful WVU program, but never hurts to reach out and try).
Paul Pasqualoni, linebackers coach, Dallas Cowboys (doubt he’d take a defensive coordinator gig in college after being a highly successful head coach at Syracuse for 15 years, but its a shot in the dark).
Tim Kish, Arizona (trying to hire him away from Stoops would admittedly be difficult)
Safer bets:
Payaam Saadat, Army co-defensive coordinator. Look at how much the Black Knights defense – hardly one loaded with D1 talent – has improved since Rich Ellerson took over last year.
Jeremy Powell, Troy defensive coordinator
Kyle Gillenwate, James Madison defensive coordinator (the numbers don’t lie, look at the Dukes defense and take a second to remember they also beat VaTech in Blacksburg earlier this year).
Snyder could also opt for a young, unproven defensive position coach who comes highly recommended from a quality program. We haven’t had a smack-down D since Bret Bielema, even though Koenning did wonders with what he had last year. I still don’t know why Snyder didn’t go after Phil Bennett last year – I believe he hadn’t been hired by Pitt yet – when Koenning left the program. And here is another question: Maybe the answer is in-house, such as Keith Burns? Of course judging by the drop-off in play by our safeties this year from last year, I’m not so sure…
And finally, while I am in total agreement with all critics about Cosh, we also have to question the quality of the defensive players on the field. I believe the secondary is sound – corners are good, safeties have talent but have too often been out of position (that’s you Tysan Hartman) – but the linebacking is weak (I want Tre Walker and Arthur Brown starting next year) and, save for Brandon Harold, we all knew the D-line would be a question mark this year. Snyder’s next recruiting class should bring some help (already signed 4 defensive linemen), and this kid Tanner Burns who followed his dad from San Jose State might help as a “coach on the field” at safety next season.
This is stating the obvious, but Snyder needs to do nothing but recruit defense – particularly speed and athleticism on defense – and replenish the O-line. Forget QB, forget running back, forget handing scholarships to kickers. Defense, defense, defense. We can’t stop anybody right now and we are in deep if we have to win shootouts. Don’t kid yourselves about the 42 yesterday, Baylor’s D is weak and we scored on a kickoff return and a halfback option pass. That ain’t happening week-to-week.
Thinking about what Weeden-Blackmon-Hunter are going to do to our D next Saturday is enough to make one want to crawl into the fetal position and cry.
I actually had considered Kish as well.
He’s definitely solid.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Brent Venables!!
Some may think this is a long shot, however assuming the Bill Snyder era is narrowing it may be worth some looking at this DC position as an open door to a head coaching position. I’ve always been a fan of Venables and he also has KSU ties. His hometown is Salina, KS and we all know that being the coach of your alma mater is a dream come true (ex. Huggins) Yes this would qualify as a long shot lateral move but thinking in terms as a DC to Head Coach move for the future isn’t
The only way I see us getting Venables
Is if his contract explicitly deems him the head coach in waiting. And there are some fans who still despise him for the exit he made, along with everyone else, at the end of 1998.
Thought the same thing about Koenning
that he would be the head-coach-in-waiting after Snyder. He, too, is a K-State alum. Plus he had previous head coaching experience (Wyoming). Still, I agree about Venables being a solid choice, but maybe he thinks he’s next-in-line at OU?
That's my conclusion.
He’s been their coordinator for 12 years now, right? With all the success they’ve had in that time, I guarantee he’s been invited to apply for several HC positions. His title at OU even includes associate head coach. He fully expects to be promoted whenever Stoops retires, although that could be some time: Stoops is only 50.
Agreed
Venables has been on short-lists for head coach at other schools for some time. He must know something that makes him feel secure remaining in his current position.
And as you said before, he burned a lot of bridges ditching K-State the way he did in ’98 with the rest of the crew. Jumping ship to an in-conference rival right after having consecutive defensive meltdowns that saw our national title hopes disappear probably still sticks in the craw of a lot of folks. I know it did with me at the time.
But wait there's more!
I remember reading something, most likely on this website, about Venables telling KSU recruits to leave for OU when he was in transition between the two. I think that would stick in the minds of KSU fans as much as the defensive meltdowns would.
I am convinced that a HC-to-be hire would have to be in house, although there’s a chance it could go to someone not currently on the staff but with experience at KSU. After the RP Dilemma, I highly doubt HCBS will be leaving without being completely certain that the next HC is the right HC. Another point is that his contract does not expire for another 3.5 years so in that time we could bring someone in with no KSU connection and they then become HC.
Thank you Bill Snyder for wherever this team goes this year (If we hadn’t canned RP we would have him for another 2.5 years, and would probably be comparable to ku right now).
GO STATE!!!!
I'm not so sure Currie will let Bill have any say on the next hire.
It obviously might depend on how things end with Snyder, but Currie isn’t no Krause.
by WillieWannabe on Oct 25, 2010 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions
Bill Snyder no say?
Have you looked at the name on the stadium lately? Chances of him not even conferring with him…zero.
I should have said the decision will be Currie's and his decision only.
I’m sure Snyder will be involved somewhat. I’ve just heard some things(true or not) about Currie not letting Bill run the show. imo, if Bill had his way, Sean Snyder would be the next coach. jokingly, sort of.
by WillieWannabe on Oct 25, 2010 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions
No, you are not joking
and if we are going to get a really good head coach next time, (unless he comes from the inside and has been groomed) Sean Snyder will need to give up his job as “director of football operations.” At some time, a really talented head coach will want to put his stamp on the program. There are issues here that are serious.
oh hail the Purple and White
I've never really understood the reason KSU fans seems to not like Sean Snyder.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions
It is not about not liking him
I think he’s great. It’s about letting go of the “Snyder magic.” A talented guy will not want the undercurrents that go along with the whole Snder mystique – the power struggles – the “well Coach Snyder did it this way – and by the way Sean is just down the hall.” That crap. I don’t like “nepotism” in any organization. Cosh defensive coordinator=son as a QB. How many of us have worked in organizations where the honchos kids are in sweet positions? I’ve never liked it. Usually not optimal.
oh hail the Purple and White
Not to say
Sean or Billy aren’t qualified, people just don’t like nepotism. Cosh could be the next El Roberson, and Sean could be the next..well his dad. It just don’t jive well for the plebes.
Send him to the Foundation
and let him raise money!
oh hail the Purple and White
Send both Snyders to the Foundation building
If they aren’t in Vanier saying “this is the way it should be done” that would decrease the amount of feeling overlooked all the time for the next coach. Even when Bill does retire, if he can still walk and talk at the same time, I’d bet he’s given some sort of advisor position in the football office
GO STATE!!!!
SS as dofo (Dir Of Football Ops)
this is from a friend of a friend so not sure what it is worth.
Sean Synder from what I’ve heard does a very good job as the operations guy, i.e. making the arrangements for travel and what not.
Prince’s choice for dofo made mistakes that didn’t help the team focus on football. Nothing major, just things that provided distractions.
I’m really not sure why we have 2-4 operations types if not more at K-State athletics although maybe we do have 1 travel coordinator and the doo’s types concentrate on their sports.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Oct 25, 2010 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions
This is an example of what I'm talking about ....
Not being critical, but your statemenet that the rumors were “Prince’s choice for dofo made mistakes that didn’t help the team focus on football. Nothing major, just things that provided distractions…” is the exact example of what I’m talking about. Now, Prince was not ready for the job, BUT he never had a chance because the Snyder loyalists OCCUPIED the football complex. A good candidate will never come here as long as that “vibe” is still alive … and it will be hard to change.
oh hail the Purple and White
"Snyder loyalists" were NOT the problem during the RP years.
Prince was not a great (or even a good) coach, and he failed to ever articulate a clear and understandable vision for the program. People who might be classified as “Snyder loyalists” simply expect more from a coach than the drifting, rudderless program that Ron Prince brought us.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions
In defense of Prince...
I think he had some good qualities, and could still maybe become a good HC (it was his first crack at the job), but he definitely needs to work on some things.
First and foremost, he needs to work on his attitude, namely his arrogance. He drove away good assistant coaches (Raheem Morris comes to mind) and was thus unable to maintain stability. Also it was hard on his players and I think contributed to having a fragile mentality that allowed them to collapse during the season.
Secondly (and this could largely be fixed by the first thing) he needs to hold onto his coordinators. We had three DCs in three years. Obviously R. Morris was a good one. I think Prince must have drove him away because before coming here he was the Secondary coach for the Bucs, and when he left he went back to the Bucs as… a Secondary coach. ’Nuf said.
In the end though, he definitely needed to be fired, not questioning that, I just think he had some potential, and if he can get himself together he might be a good HC somewhere someday.
Of course, I always like to make excuses for KSU if it seems they’ve made a bad decision…
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions
I will eat my dirty gym socks
if Ron Prince is ever a good head coach somewhere. I guess that depends on how you define “good”, but I’m defining it as “good at a BCS-level school.” I just don’t see it happening.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions
True
He probably won’t get another chance, but I saw some stuff I liked is all.
I am glad he’s gone though
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm sure my judgment is clouded,
by the fact that he’s still an effing albatross on our school.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, there is no excuse for that
I don’t care if Krause signed it, what does that say about a man who agrees to secret buy-outs?
He may legally be obligated the amount, but if he were a MAN he would let it go.
I’m not bitter or anything.
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions
In the end,
I think he’s just pissed, and trying to stick it to KSU. However, this will NOT reflect well on him, when ADs are looking to fill head coaching positions, I don’t think.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions
No, this aint on Prince
if anybody should “man up” it’s KSU and pay the guy. And then Krause and his clan should reimburse the coffers!
oh hail the Purple and White
I don't know, F76,
It just feels like Prince is only doing this to stick it to KSU. And he’s certainly not doing his head coaching prospects any favors by pursuing it.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions
You have to be a really good man,
to walk away from $3million! I’d take the money and be an assistant for the rest of my life!
oh hail the Purple and White
Prince also alienated local recruits and coaches.
Snyder is still trying to repair some of those ties.
by WillieWannabe on Oct 25, 2010 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Yea, but...
I’m sure the NFL salary even as secondary coach was probably just as good if not better than D-cord at the 11th best budget school in the big 12 at the time. And Morris is now a HC of an NFL team with a winning record (which I had my doubts myself of that ever happening). So let’s just say, there were probably more reasons why Morris went back to the NFL.
I imagine that one was
Ron Prince himself, though. What must Prince think of where Morris is now, versus where he himself is? Quite the dichotomy.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions
I am not standing up for Prince!
I’ve already said he was not “ready” for the job. Which of course begs the question of WHY he was hired in 2005 when we could have gotten TCU’s Patterson? I am just curious as to why that question is not more significantly explored. And while Prince was not ready, the “Snyder loyalists” were a problem … I will just leave it at that … And I will take a back seat to no one in my admiration for what Coach Snyder did from 1989 to 2003; but as the Good Book says, for everything there is a season, and then you have to turn, turn, turn!
Look, I have complete faith that Coach Snyder is doing all in his power to right the ship and this time do a better job of turning the program over so that it can maintain and continue to prosper. The man loves KSU. I trust that to my bones. But there are problems there that better be addressed this time that were not addressed last time, or we will be in deep crap, fast.
oh hail the Purple and White
I see both points however,
after the whole Ron Prince fiasco I don’t see Currie/Snyder appointing any outsiders to the head coach position without being part of his current staff. Also, we are not women and holding a 12 year grudge against an “at the time” little assistant coach is rediculous. I have a sore spot for Stoops brothers but not Venables. All good assistants are going to move on. No coach dreams about being an assistant all their lives. Also, I don’t see stoops retiring for at least another 10 years. Either Venables is the most patient man ever or he will soon be looking to go elsewhere. Yes he probably has had many offers to HC but not his alma mater. Either we get him or we play against him. GO CATS!
by PurpleCountry on Oct 24, 2010 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions
Agreed
Still, its something to consider when bringing up Venables. OU head coach or K-State head coach, well, unfortunately we’re going to lose more often than not on that one, regardless of what schools name is on the coaches degree. I do think if Venables came back, folks would forgive him his exodus to follow the Stoops brothers. No one is saying it should still be held against him, just that some may still harbor sore feelings. As I said, I did too at the time.
I think Stoops will retire within 4 years, maybe sooner
I read a big article in the Oklahoma City paper a few months ago about how Stoops’ dad died at age 53 of heart disease; how Stoops’ cholesterol levels are off the charts; he wants to live a longer life – that kind of thing. It was obvious to me they were laying the ground for Stoops to leave sooner than many expect.
That said, there is more to the Venables story than the 98 thing. I’ve heard he is on the outs with a very rich western Kansas alum, and that he will never, ever come back to KSU. I won’t swear by the accuracy of that story, but it is “out there.”
I think both Mack Brown and Stoops will be gone within a few years – and we all know that there can be “down years” after very successful coaches leave. See, OU post Switzer and NU post Osborne. All the more reason why it is imperative that Coach Snyder “steady the ship” and we get it right on the next one. Mizzou is going to be tough to catch up to. Mizzou is a sleeping giant because they ARE the only D-1 school in a state with twice the population of Kansas. If we don’t right this ship quickly, KSU could be a perenial 55% win per cent team for a long time.
oh hail the Purple and White
by Furnace76 on Oct 24, 2010 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
I read this same article, and this is an often-overlooked aspect of why Venables might not be leaving just yet. I had never heard the part about him having skeletons with a rich KSU donor, though. Do you have any idea what happened?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Yea, but
they are just rumors and not worth repeating on a public board. I don’t mean to be coy about that, but they really aren’t worth repeating – bar talk -
oh hail the Purple and White
I can appreciate that.
I’d always heard there was SOME issue, but never really knew WHAT that issue might be. Discretion is the better part of valor though, as they say, so you’re right about it not being worth repeating.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Oh, I had heard about the "recruiting whispers" before.
It’s one of many reasons why I was there in 2000 booing the hell out of Stoops, Stoops, Venables, and Mangino.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 12:55 AM CDT up reply actions
A Young Recruiter
I think the next DC needs to be youngish (like Venables) and a solid recruiter (like Venables) and I wouldn’t mind it it was Brent Venables. But there’s really no way to get him here. He won’t be named head coach in waiting so he has no incentive to come here. John Currie will want to go out and find the next football coach and not leave it to Bill Snyder to find his own replacement. Also, don’t forget the rumors about Venables…Apparently, he’s got some sort of blemish on his past that has kept him from getting any of many head coaching positions that he’s interviewed for over the years.
I, personally, would love to see Leavitt come back and be our DC as a way to get back into coaching. He’d probably only be here a few years which would be perfect because Coach Snyder will probably only be here that long.
From the posts it's obvious we all feel that
our next head coach needs to be proven already. Bill Snyder isn’t going to be able to repair our team everytime some idiot (Prince) comes in and screws it up. Snyder has written the instructions on how to make a lesser popular recruiting program successful and as long as we put someone in there that coaches based on this system, KSU football will be a long term solid program. Not to sway from the DC subject but I guess I’m just a little queezy about Prince thing still. BUT to get back on subject, if it weren’t Venables then it needs to be someone who has proven he can succeed in a small program. I’m a huge fan on how Boise State has turned their program into a contender and we need that sort of foundation to maintain this ride. I too agree with CT K-Stater that our personell stinks this year. We have some young talent and maybe the reason Koening left is he knew the D personell was lacking.
by PurpleCountry on Oct 24, 2010 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
How much does K-State have to spend on a DC?
One of the problems with luring a guy like Marvin Sanders away from his alma mater is that he already makes $250,000 as a position coach, and would presumably be next in line for Nebraska’s DC if Carl Pelini lands an HC job. Last I saw, Chris Cosh makes $265,000 as DC.
Would K-State be willing to pay the $425k-450k Koenning got at Illinois when it faces payments to Prince and the financial issues (scandals?) surrounding the AD’s office the last couple of years? Are you willing to commit to that kind of financial outlay when the Big 12 hasn’t signed any new TV contracts and the threat of A&M or Texas bolting if the numbers don’t add up still remains?
This is a tough spot for KSU, and I think your best bet is a young up and comer, just like Snyder did with his early staffs.
I'm not sure
it would take a huge bump in salary, Chris. Perhaps a 15-20% raise to aound $300K would be enough, given the chance to reestablish himself as a BCS-level defensive coordinator, and get back on track for a head job at some point. And honestly, do you think that the Big 12 isn’t going to sign their new TV contracts? That bit seems like a bit of wishful thinking on the part of a Nebraska fan. :)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Pay + coach in waiting might be enough
We’ll see. Spiraling costs are one of the things that drives me nuts about college football. Even in money-laden BCS conferences you have a pretty substantial split.
My only point regarding the unsigned contracts is that you don’t have a firm dollar amount to budget because there’s no contract to budget from.
As for the Texas/A&M comment, well, that doesn’t really apply to this conversation and I’m sorry I typed it. I threw it in there because I’m curious what would happen if A&M, OU and Texas don’t each get their $20M, and the numbers I’ve seen suggest it’s at least possible that Beebe overpromised sharable revenue.
The K-State president would rightfully be looking out for the university as a whole, not just the football program, and would be careful how much money is committed to things like the salaries of assistants without knowing the bottom line.
by Chris Wilson on Oct 24, 2010 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't think $40-50K extra/year for a solid DC would break the bank.
And as for aTm, UT, and OU, I’m pretty sure they’re taking a “we’ve made our bed, now we sleep in it” attitude. I doubt that if they “only” get 19 or 19.5mi from the new TV deal that they would try to blow things up.
As for Sanders, do you really think it would take a HCIW tag to get him to come? I mean, he’s a secondary coach right now, so it’s not like he’s simply moving laterally, as someone like Venables would be doing, and could demand that as just recompense for a lateral move.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Maybe it's my homerism...
… but I gotta think Sanders is off the table completely unless there was a contractual guarantee for HCIW. Even then, I’m not sure. His wife is from Omaha, he was a three year letter-winner for UNL. By all accounts he and Bo are pretty close friends. When he joined the Husker staff in 2003 he turned down an NFL job to do so. So I’d be very surprised to see him leave… I think he just likes it in Lincoln.
Going on a tangent, that’s one notable difference between Coach Osborne and Coach Snyder. Snyder did an excellent job of developing a coaching tree among his assistants. It’s astounding, really, looking at the quality of coaches that have roots at KSU. At the same time, Osborne did a pretty remarkable job of keeping his coaching staff intact. I’m sure guys like McBride or Tenopir or Young would have been successful HCs, but they never left. Maybe Osborne taking over as AD has created that kind of atmosphere again.
by Chris Wilson on Oct 24, 2010 11:41 PM CDT up reply actions
I guess we'll have to see.
But, I think that Solich-type assistants, who stick around for 20+ years, waiting their “turn” are rare anymore. And with Pelini being as young as he is (I don’t think he’s MUCH older than Sanders, if at all), if Sanders has any ambitions of being a head coach at some point, he’ll have to move on. But I doubt that KSU would bestow the HCIW tag on any DC other than a big-name former KSU guy like Venables or Mark Stoops.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 11:46 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree with pretty much all of this.
I’m not sure Sanders does desire to be a head coach. Too many head coaches talk about how little hands-on coaching and teaching they get to do anymore. Maybe Sanders just likes being a position coach or coordinator.
I like your talk about Wallerstedt. Air Force has done amazing things with their defense the last couple of years. There might be some talent available on coaching staffs that look to be disbanded soon. Tim DeRuyter (former Air Force DC now at A&M) comes to mind.
by Chris Wilson on Oct 25, 2010 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions
I hadn't thought of that,
but it;s very true. Just looking at the remainder of aTm’s schedule, I can’t see them doing much better than 6-6, and I don’t think that’s good enough to save Sherman’s job.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 12:10 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't have a problem with leavitts blackmarks
We took a chance with another guy who, though he isn’t with us anymore, worked out ok.
We didn't seem to care about Huggins blackmarks.
So let’s bring Leavitt home.
by Catbacker98 on Oct 24, 2010 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Huggins didn't hit a kid, and then tell his assistants and other coaches to lie about it.
As much as I think Leavitt can coach the hell out of a defense, what he did is still pretty fresh and raw, and it’s WAY worse than just a personal failing. I’m really torn about him.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought I heard that
USF dismissed the charges because they proved false?
Anyway, I would actually think that Levitt would be a smart choice for everyone involved. 1. Snyder knows him and he is proven. 2. Snyder is a sucker for hard-luck/improvement cases and would want to help him rebuild his reputation. 3. (2 from Levitt’s side) Levitt would be smart to come back under Snyder, coordinate for a while and clear his name/clean his image. 4. Levitt would then be in line to replace Snyder when he retires because he is a proven head coach that literally built a program and won a lot of ball games.
I know he has black marks, but Snyder is really good at clearing those up. Levitt is the best choice for the position, unless Venables is willing to switch schools again.
Read this, and tell me if you think KSU would hire Leavitt again
“Jim Leavitt tries to connect his firing to basketball transfer Gus Gilchrist”
It appears that the USF thing is still going on, and that USF actually ruled that Leavitt had choked and slapped the kid in question. Some “black marks” are just too difficult to erase. The more I look into the situation, the less I think it’s even remotely possible that Leavitt would ever return to KSU in any capacity.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions
What happened to Leavitt (and Mangino)
Listen, this is what I think happened to Leavitt: Yes, he built a nice program, but the money people there decided he was not going to get them to the next level (and based on his performance, I can see why they thought that). But he has a 5 yr rollover contract, so to fire him "without cause" costs the school $8mill. So they create an incident so they can fire him "for cause," they negotiate, and probably paid him about $3mill (instead of the $8mill). Same thing happened to Mangino.
I don’t want Leavitt to be the next head coach. He won’t get us to a consistent top 3-4 in the new Big12. Darn good coach, but not an upper level guy.
While we are dreaming, let’s hope the BCS screws over Cris Peterson at Boise. He has similar values to Coach Snyder, he’s a "small town" kind of guy, and I think he would flourish in an environment like Manhattan. Of course, that assumes Coach Snyder does not want to pull a Joe Pa on us. If he does, there is nothing we can do about it.
oh hail the Purple and White
I would have no problem with Coach Snyder coaching until he's 80.
That would give us some time to develop a young coach of our own (Joe Bob, maybe?) to eventually take his place. Additionally, you just don’t force out a legend. And 15-20 years from now, Coach Snyder is going to be looked at as one of the greatest coaches of all-time. I don’t want KSU to be the school that forced that guy out for even a dream candidate.
I agree with you that Leavitt isn’t the future here. I disagree that the charges at USF were simply trumped-up to get him out.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Ditto my thoughts
I agree with Furnace in that Leavitt was never going to take USF to the next level Saw too many USF-UConn games to know that Leavitt – for all his strengths as a coach, and he is a fine one – is not a good game-day coach and would not be the one to take KSU to the next level, or keep us there if Snyder bows out before getting us back to the top echelon.
I love the idea of Chris Peterson being next in line at KSU, but never see him leaving Boise, and if he does my guess is it would be a Pac-10 school. Another thing to consider is that Boise has a crack coaching staff so do you look there for an assistant who can take over as DC should Snyder seek to replace Cosh in that role?
The problem is
that they’re “crack” for Boise and the Pacific Northwest. While I’m sure they’re great coaches, I don’t think they have the type of recruiting ties that one would need in the Midwest to compete with the Texas schools.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, but
they most likely have West coast recruiting ties and can open up California, etc. I could be way off here, but isn’t each coach assigned a recruiting area? I know Boise stopped Oregon’s Masoli-led offense cold last year, then did the same against TCU in the bowl game. Not too shabby. Urban Meyer had to win at Bowling Green and Utah before getting Florida. Not saying any of those coaches are Urban Meyer (though I think Peterson is a fantastic game-day coach), but they all have to start somewhere.
There's probably truth to that.
But I just don’t know how many Cali kids you’re going to get to come to Manhattan, KS, no matter WHO you are. Texas kids are a different story, though. As for how recruiting works, yes, different coaches are assigned different areas to work.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions
No doubt
I’m not saying we’d pluck 5-6 kids from California a year, just doing the due diligence when it comes to not excluding one of the most target-rich recruiting areas in the country. Even if Manhattan isn’t the sexiest locale and the school is in the middle of the country, it still plays D1 football in a premier BCS conference so it should hold some attraction. Snyder used to recruit Florida quite well early on in his first go-round and was great at finding hidden gems from all over (Chris Canty – New Jersey). Its a big country with a lot of kids who want a crack at starting for a BCS program.
Of course Texas is the bread-and-butter for recruiting in general – and our recruiting in particular. But “recruiting Texas” wasn’t part of the original post when looking at who would be a possible DC nominee. If performance+recruiting Texas is crucial – and I agree with you that both are – then perhaps Kevin Ramsey of Texas Southern might be one such nominee. Young, coaches a top-2 FCS defense in Texas, and he has a pretty broad resume – including coaching the Tennessee secondary in 1998 when they won the national championship (our national championship, grrrr). His defense last year was pretty stout, too. And I mention him while still keeping in mind what JonMorse said about Texas snobbery below…
Yeah, but
with Ramsey, he’s not only at an FCS school, but he’s at a lower-tier FCS school, and he’s just a coordinator there. This would seem to be even a rung down from SFA’s top-flight FCS program. To make the jump from HC at a school like SFA seems much less risky than to make the jump from DC at a lower-tier FCS school like Texas Southern.
With all of that said, it’s very hard to tell who might even be on this type of list, and what things the powers-that-be might hold to be most important. I do think we’ll find out, though, because a defense can only so many nearly 700-yard outputs before someone loses their job.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 6:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Wont happen and wish it would
Venables isnt going to happen…. I just dont think we will ever see him in KSU purple ever again for any given reason. Leavitt however I wish would come back to KSU in any form. I have been hoping since the day he hit the market that we would bring him back to do anything, anything at all.
I do like the idea of Sanders!!!!
If we can't get J.C. Harper
Clint Conque might also be someone to look at in the Southland. He’s the head coach of Central Arkansas, and while his team is kind of struggling this year he’s been known to field some very good defenses in this conference. He had UCA at the top of the SLC standings just a couple of years after they moved up from Division 2 to 1-aa.
I would take Harper over Conque any day, however.
by THETexasStateUniversity on Oct 24, 2010 12:08 PM CDT reply actions
Know where you are in the ladder
At least that’s the way I look at CFB. With some of the suggestions above, it reminds me of the resumes of Ron Prince Hires (see Central Oklahoma and South Dakota State). To be realistic, it would be unlikely that we can sway away quality d-coordinators from any other Auto-BCS conference, so the next tier down IMO is the Non-AQ-BCS ranks, and that’s where the focus should be. Obviously there might be a problem swaying away the no.1 D in the nation’s coordinator from TCU, but we need a good track record against decent competition, and help someone “move up” in the process. Let’s be honest Manhattan isn’t appealing locale to many people. So let’s look at C-USA, MWC and WAC coordinators like:
Houston, East Carolina, Air Force Academy, Nevada. I don’t know of any KSU ties, but seriously there’s a huge jump in competition from the Central ArK and Stephen F. Austins of the world.
Just last week I heard a rumor from a family member a week ago who “heard from a big donor” that Leavitt was already getting fealers from the Coaching staff for next year and to be the HC-in waiting. But if you’ve read as much press I do, you’ve probably seen the same reports that UNT is interested in Leavitt, and footballscoop.com is reporting that so is Jim. So only time will tell.
Either way, Cosh at the very least needs to be demoted, he has a track record of failure too with the 04 and 05 seasons anyway. I might be willing to give the guy 1 more year assuming better talent is coming next year, but if there ends up being no improvement next year, he should be out for good. Would feel weird firing the guy with the Son on the team, so i think demotion is probably better.
After further review...
Houston and East Carolina are horrible in the “points against category” now that I do my actual research, and use those for my intial basis before looking closer.
Instead I would like to substitute in San Diego State to the discussion. The team who held the newly ranked #7 Mizzou Tigers to 27 pts at the “Zou”. Rocky Long has no KSU ties, but has some Head Coaching experience, and a decent resume.
On a side note, I feel like the conferences I listed above, should also be the conferences we schedule our Non-con games in, with no 1-AA teams ever. Especially think about how well the K-state faithful would travel to a game at say a Tulsa, where scheduling a 2+1 should not scare HC Bill Snyder.
AFA’s Co-D coord on other hand is a 88 K-state grad, Matt Wallerstedt as well as a Manhattan native . AFA tamed OU this year down in Norman, and his specialty is LB coach. Although I contradict myself a bit here, he was a Ron Prince guy, but was part of that first decent RP year in 2006, with the “better than Cosh” Cover 2 D run by Raheem Morris. You got to think a guy like this would love to coach under such a great HC like BS to help him learn for himself. He coached good guys too like Eric Childs, the great Brandon Archer, and Maurice Mack.
by GTcat on Oct 24, 2010 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Def +1 on Wallerstedt
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions
Interesting.
And it’s funny what being prematurely gray does for how old you look. He’s only 37, but looks probably closer to 50! Definitely a solid resume, but I’d kind of like to see a guy with some Midwest roots (like Sanders), some Texas ties (like Harper), or KSU bloodlines (like Wallerstedt). I could definitely be swayed on Andy Buh, though, as his resume is solid (LOVE that he was co-DC for Harbaugh), and his youth works in his favor as well.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions
+ 1 on Wallerstedt
Wonder why Snyder has never brought him on board. That is an impressive resume.
oh hail the Purple and White
And his wife's a Kansan
So you would think the “being close to family” factor would help. This truly was a nugget for me, I had lost track (and it’s super hard with the revolving door that is asst D1 coaches) about him (actually I didn’t recognize the name at all). I think we all could agree, that the fan base desperately longs for awesome LB play again. This makes me want to watch as many AFA games now, to see how their D plays. Their ranked about 45 in pts against. At the very least think about it this way: They gave up 38pts to the now #4 team in the nation, while we gave up 47pts to the just now #25 team in the nation
He’s actually in his mid 40s so who knows. And their 10 yr old son would probably still remember some people from wherever he went to school, so you would think a good pay check could easily bring this guy back.
I like the Wallerstedt option as well.
I don’t know much about him but I like the idea of him being a LB coach. The wildcat defenses of the 90’s had great linebacker coachs and in turn great linebackers. Right now our linebacker play is nothing short of disgusting.
I have an option in Dave Huxtable. In case you don’t remember his speedy UCF defense ran circles around us. He has no KSU ties however. I actually remembering asking myself during that game “why can’t our defense be this good? Its UCF for god sake.”
I've added Wallerstedt to the list.
See the above discussions, as well as what I put in his section in the article for why I did so.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 2:25 PM CDT reply actions
As for the jump from 1-AA to 1-A,
all I have to say is “See: Tressel, Jim.”
In all seriousness, though, the jump is much less steep if the coach in question is going from a HC position at 1-AA to a DC position at 1-A. Additionally, I absolutely LOVE how Harper has turned around SFA so dramatically. Very Snyder-esque. Give him 1-A athletes on his defense, and the sky is the limit, I think.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 2:29 PM CDT reply actions
Tressel is an exception to the rule.
He was at Youngstown State. He won a national title there and then could recruit the same state in Ohio through name recognition alone.
Harper is building up a rep in Texas as well.
What he has done at SFA is really quite amazing.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions
People also said
Turner Gill “turned around” Buffalo in 3 years, peaking at a 7 win season. If this Harper had 5 or 6 years experience at SFA and a few titles I would be more on the bandwagon with that. He is in 8th place in voting for the Liberty Mutual 1-AA coach of the year award (same that Bill was up for last year). I’m liking it a little more K.Scott, as I read on. I don’t want be “that guy” trying to beat down an opinion.
BTW, I really respect the staff over here at BOTC. I’ve probably been a lurker since at least this point last football season, and really like the site. I had to register today when I saw this topic. And when I saw a way I didn’t have to create a totally sepearate account (which is a pet peeve of mine), by using my facebook account, I had to jump in. Love the site!
Well, thanks!
We’re glad to have you, and that you enjoy our site!
As for Harper, his three plus years at SFA have gone as follows:
07 = 0-11 (The team was absolutely devastated with injuries.)
08 = 4-8 (Big-time youth movement, and a greatly-improved defense.)
09 = 10-3 (Made the 1-AA playoffs.)
10 = 6-1 (Only loss to Texas A&M, and ranked #4 by the coaches and #5 by the writers in last week’s poll, before their big win over their rival this week. May move up in the polls.)
If The Lumberjacks finish off a 1- or 2-loss regular season with another playoff appearance, I think that Harper’s profile will rise. I really hope that he’s at LEAST on our radar screen as a potential DC.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions
Will move up in the polls.
#5/4 William & Mary beat #2 Delaware yesterday, and I can’t see Delaware not dropping to at least #5 as a result.
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
Thanks.
I hadn’t checked the 1-AA scores yet. It would seem that W&M would jump SFA in the polls, while Delaware would fall past them. I’d say then, that there might actually be a possibility that SFA stays put in the Coaches at #4, with W&M jumping them to #3, Jack St. #2, and App. St. #1. In the other, media-based poll, I think you’re right that SFA moves past Delaware, to go up to #4. So, it looks like they will be ranked #4/#4 now.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions
The other thing to keep in mind,
is that I’m not saying that we should make him the next head coach (a la Gill), but give him a chance to coordinate a D-1A defense (and recruit the heck out of Texas!) which might prepare him for such a position 2-4 years down the road.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions
One caveat to recruiting in Texas.
Having spent over a decade living down there, I can say this with certainty: He’s not going to be able to go down there and talk about what he did at SFA and have recruits keep a straight face. To most Texans, all the FCS schools are is safety schools for people who were unable to get into a “real” school (i.e., an FBS school or one of the many well-regarded D-III schools in the state) with either brains or brawn. And because of that, they also view the entire FCS system as a bunch of schools only losers go to, and have pretty much zero respect for the classification. Hell, people pay more attention to the Lone Star schools than to the Southland, unless they’re alumni.
I’ve actually heard this stuff from kids or their parents down there before. They’d rather go (or send their kid, if it’s the parents) to Trinity or Southwestern than to SFA or SHSU or god forbid Texas State. It ain’t right, but it’s what it is.
My new blog: Those Other Guys. Critiques welcome.
I don't doubt that at all.
But, where I think his Texas roots would be an advantage would be in the relationships he has most likely formed with various high school programs. There may not be much respect for the SFAs and the Sam Houstons of the world amongst the top-level kids, but if he’s established a reputation amongst the coaches as a solid guy, PLUS is now recruiting to a BCS school, the perception that the kids have of his old school wouldn’t matter.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions
+1
I will agree there are exceptions to every rule, and would not say that any of those choices of 1AA won’t work. I just remember the feeling I got reading the bios of all the new coordinators that replaced the ones that left after RP’s first year and remembered thinking to myself “ok, well here we go, I won’t say anything bad yet, but this is something to keep an eye on”. But part of my opinion comes from the fact that in general I’m a conservative guy, and not quite a risk taker. For such a high up position though, i would feel uncomfortable giving that to a guy with no D1 experience. Could that same person be a great positions coach higher, and be put on the fast track to promotion though…I think yes.
And what a difference
Another 3 or 4 weeks will make, because who knows this Harper could be 10-1 at that point, at which point your suggestion looks pretty good.
True
And I think that if he goes anywhere from 11-1 to 9-3 in the regular season, adds another playoff appearance (plus maybe a win there) to his resume, he’s going to start popping up for D-coordinator positions, or maybe even non-AQ head jobs. It’s hard to predict such things.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions
and if we get really desperate ...
Brooks Barta is coaching high school football and doing a great job at it. I know there is a difference so we would really have to need a coach.
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Oct 24, 2010 6:00 PM CDT reply actions
No matter how desperate you get,
you don’t have someone jump from high school to D-1A. (See: Dodge, Todd)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Its an excuse at least...
Cosh doesnt have any left… And I’m not sure Synder does either in terms of keeping Cosh around!!!
Loyalty to a fault, has always been the Achilles Heel for Coach Snyder.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 8:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Was Briles HS before he came to Houston?`
I didn’t realize that.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:04 PM CDT up reply actions
well, no...
He was a HS prior to joining Mike Leech’s staff as an assistant at TT in 1999, and then he took the Houston job in 2003. it was still a HS to D1 coaching jump though. I guess he coached Kevin Kolb in HS.
But Dodge jumped directly from Southlake to North Texas.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 31, 2010 7:24 PM CDT up reply actions
Since we're bashing Texans views of non FCS schools
Then what about some coaches from Blinn CC? Would that help or hurt recruiting? Both in HS and JuCo?
Whoops that was supposed to go under...
The title: One caveat to recruiting in Texas.
And I meant FBS schools. It’s my first day, is there an easy way to edit/delete my own posts?
Actually,
once they’re out there, they are there to stay.
As for your point regarding a Juco hire, I know in basketball, they made it VERY difficult to hire a Juco coach, in that if you hire, say, the Hutch CC head coach, you can’t recruit a HCC player for something like 2 years. I’m not sure if the same rules apply to football or not.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions
Very interesting
That makes perfect logical sense from a rules stand point. As for the editing of posting, I’ll just try and practice a little more self restraint/QC
Ah, no worries!
I think everyone has posted a reply at the bottom of the thread that they meant as a reply to a specific comment. Happens all the time.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 10:17 PM CDT up reply actions
After some research,
I just added Dave Lockwood, the cornerbacks coach at West Virginia to the list, with a brief explanation. Thoughts?
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 24, 2010 11:42 PM CDT reply actions
Lockwood is a nice substitute
for Casteel, whom as I mention in the first post would be a long-shot to leave WVU. Casteel was part of the “reach” list. Although I’d still like to see Snyder pluck Kish out from under Stoops…
by CT-K-Stater on Oct 25, 2010 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions
My main issue with Kish is his age.
He’s 56 years old, which means that if we’re looking at this DC hire as a potential HC, he would be in his 60s if Coach Snyder stays even 4 more years.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions
True
and I don’t think Kish would jump from Arizona to K-State. Its a lateral move- although it would be sweet to stick it to Stoops.
That said, now that I see this list is predicated on being able to recruit Texas, being young, being a potential head-coach-in-waiting…I’d have rewritten my original post :)
Not a problem. Here is someone I just uncovered who I think slipped by all our radar screens: Tracey Claeys, defensive coordinator for Northern Illinois (21s in nation in points against). Three years as D-coordinator there. Last year’s version finished 30th in the nation in total defense, first in MAC. His first year as D-coordinator at NIU his defense – according to the bio – posted second-highest improvement in points allowed. And he was MAC defensive coordinator of the year in ‘08. Also, he was defensive coordinator at Emporia State for two years, so he knows Kansas. And did I say he is young? Graduated from – wait for it – Kansas State in 1994. Went to high school in Kansas, too.
There you go, he’s our guy. You can thank me later, K.Scott.
Good work!
I may add a seventh slot, or remove one of the other guys.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Looks a lot like the list I put out two days ago...about 10 posts down.
I like the way you think though.
You're right
and I made note that you mentioned Claeys way down following the end of the responses to your post. I thought I had scanned through all the posts pretty thoroughly before I mentioned Claeys, but afterward I noted you had already beaten me to the punch. As I said, great eye on your part.
Claeys’ record as defensive coordinator at NIU is damn impressive and we wouldn’t have to move mountains to get him. He’s young, knows Kansas, and more importantly – has some understanding of the unique culture of K-State. I’d still love Doeren, too, but don’t see that ever happening – not unless he chafes under Bielema and Snyder/KSU makes an inspired pitch to him.
Stretching a bit off-topic, this to me is the most important aspect of hiring a new head coach. Do they understand the culture – and do they fit the culture – of the school they are hired to coach? Each school presents different challenges. For instance, Greg Robinson was a pathetic mismatch at Syracuse. He simply didn’t get the school, its unique environment, and the delicacy of its recruiting lines (nor did it help that he was a pitiful coach).
I think only a handful of coaches – Snyder of course, Urban Meyer, Nick Saban and a few others – would probably be successful anywhere.
by CT-K-Stater on Oct 26, 2010 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions
Did you put out a fanpost on potential d-coordinators?
I didn’t see it before I put this up, Cb98.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 26, 2010 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions
Look down a ways...
he lists 7 potential coordinators. About 15 responses/posts down.
by CT-K-Stater on Oct 26, 2010 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions
I've filled the last blank
with Andy Buh, of Nevada. However, if you guys think you’ve got better (realistic!) candidates, put them here in the comments, with who you think they should replace. If you can, try to include a link to a bio of your guy, as that makes it easier to evaluate the candidates.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:20 AM CDT reply actions
Wow I'm tickled
First day on the job, and I got two of the 6 suggestions! For whatever that’s worth. Like I mentioned in my first post, my mindset as someone in a hiring position at KSU would be to look at where the program stacks up on the food chain, meaning we really only have the money to sway away at best the top coaches in D1 Leagues the next step under us like C-USA WAC and MWC. And along the way I got lucky by finding a guy with KSU ties. I would be weary of going too far though like the MAC and Sun-Belt, but there could be some ops out there too. I know someone suggested a guy from Troy earlier, and that could very well be legit. You might be able to make a point for Big East and ACC assistants, but I don’t know how realistic that is either.
I think for a guy like Doeren,
we could loosen the purse strings. Particularly, given that he’d be a head coach in waiting for us. Also, Wallerstedt and Buh were great finds! It’s good to have you on board here at BOTC!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Glad I can contribute
I’m trying to dig up some notes I wrote last year of my playoff system to contribute more to your other thread…I remember the most of it, but I had a page and a half of a well thought out system, that I think is somewhat unique in many ways.
Shopping for a cool new D-Coordinator is like it was looking at the classifieds in High School. So many neat scenarios, but the odds of them happening are probably a long-shot. We have no clue what Cosh’s fate is at the end of the season.
Even with Coach Snyder's well-publicized loyalty,
I can’t imagine he will put with any more meltdowns like we had at Baylor. I can’t even imagine what kind of beatdown OSU is going to put on our defense. I just hope our crippled receivers, combined with DT can at least keep it respectable. Like 69-49 or something.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:07 PM CDT up reply actions
crippled receivers
On Powercat Insider today, I got the impression that Tramaine might not be out for the season, but it was still unclear what the status exactly is. Wyatt anticipates the Tuesday press conference will unfold that info.
He was on crutches Saturday and still in the inflatable cast, I guess it might be a smaller break if it’s broken. Only time will tell.
But yea i think a goal would be just not crippling any more receivers at this point. I would consider a good defensive outing against the pokes a 45pt day. All we can really hope for is for Okie State’s offense to have an “off” day.
I actually think I may have found our next DC and HC.
I’ve added one more, whom I think is not only a better hire than even the “dream hire” mentioned above (Venables), but is also more likely to actually happen, as long as the athletic department is willing to do what is necessary to make it happen.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 2:14 AM CDT reply actions
So I took the time and read the bio
And it is as advertised. Not to mention he’s a Bishop Miege grad which could inadvertantly get some of Tim Grunhard’s kids to take an extra look at KSU, helping to keep the top tier talent out of KU. I think in probably the past 3 years Miege has had an athlete in the top 3 rankings for the State of KS, which I think is slowly turning into a decent recruting bed…now if only we could win back Wichita from OSU and OU!
Amen, on both counts.
I’d really like to see the proverbial fence around the state, as far as recruiting goes. We don’t have a ton of 4 and 5 star talent here, but dammit, we need to start keeping more than we lose, at least!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Amen, on both counts.
I’d really like to see the proverbial fence around the state, as far as recruiting goes. We don’t have a ton of 4 and 5 star talent here, but dammit, we need to start keeping more than we lose, at least!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:10 PM CDT up reply actions
Not to be contrarion, here...
But what’s with the focus on having a KSU connection? (not trying to single out K-Scott here, everyone in the comments section wants that as well)
Let’s look at our last two HCs:
Bill Snyder: No connection to KSU, orchestrated the greatest turnaround in CFB history.
Ron Prince: Grew up in Junction City, always dreamed of being HC at KSU, had one mediocre season and two awful ones, lost to KU three times, and otherwise showed little promise as a coach. Also, basically swindled our beloved university of a few million dollars with the help of Krause.
Actually, the question is rhetorical, I know why we want someone with a KSU connection, I just wanted to point out that sometimes you need to be careful what you wish for.
Can you make this into a poll? I think that would be a good idea.
My votes would be for either:
Matt Wallerstedt
or
Dave Doeren
Mainly because of their KSU ties. :-)
But my dark-horse is Andy Buh, enough there to be excited about, and maybe (if he became HC) some stability at HC for us. Also, his lack of connections to KSU makes me think of 1989…
I'm trying to figure out how to structure a poll around this.
Once I do — and once the discussion dies down some — I will post something like that.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions
is there a way to?
rank your top 3 choices in a poll? Because the poll could kind of be like a real job search. If your first choice turns you down, then who do you go to? Wow, this is a lot of fun.
I will probably just throw all 6 names out there,
and then once the front-runner(s) become clear, we can hash it out between those in the comments. Glad you’re enjoying this!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 7:12 PM CDT up reply actions
This HCIW is an interesting subject.
Although FSU and Bobbie Bowden might think otherwise. Is it fair to attach that label to an assistant coach while the man is still here? Or does it turn our namesake into a lame duck? I’m not sure what might have been in Snyder’s mind when he came back and filled positions but I have to think that Andy Ludwig would have been in the mix. Either Koenning or Ludwig would have made excellent choices for our next head coach. Only problem is they both wanted to bolt for more money or a different opportunity.
So here a few candidates after a quick scouring of the intrawebs. Three have Big XII ties and one is a KSU grad.
Todd Bradford – DC Southern Miss
Scott Shafer – DC Syracuse
Vance Bedford – DC Louisville
Jimmy Burrow – DC Ohio
Tracy Claeys – DC Northern Illinois
Geoff Collins – DC FIU
Rocky Long – DC SDSU
As you can see hiring some of the coordinators would be a significant move in their careers. The chance to coach in a BCS AQ conference or the chance to get out of an unstable situation (i.e. Syracuse). Over half of these candidates are young in coaching terms and the rest are what I would term middle-aged coaches. Do any of them warrant HCIW? Probably not. But the thought right now is to plug the leak that is our defense. Just in case you were curious…Illinois and Koenning currently rank 23rd in total defense.
Ludwig was the HCIW
But bolted because there was no language to that effect in his contract. Money wasn’t the only issue. HCBS didn’t want to commit to only coaching five more years, and if he has the gas God bless him, so Ludwig bolted and took a guy or two with him. I would consider him for the next HC, but he won’t be back here prior.
That said, a change has to come at DC…just for confidence sake. The fans and donors aren’t going to put up with Cosh as the only DC. I see HCBS bringing in a Co-DC before firing Cosh, but you never know.
the whole HCIW thing is overrated
How’s it working out at Texas. My bet is that Muschamp doesn’t even get the job.
oh hail the Purple and White
I think that HCIW-type contracts,
are worded such that there is a decent-sized penalty if the coach DOESN’T get the job. And I think that’s the only way we get Doeren.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions
Still, I agree that it's a bad move
If it explicitly stated, as it is with Muschamp, I just think it causes too many problems.
No, informal arrangements are much better, because it forces everyone to earn their keep, but they are less likely to keep the coordinator around in those situations.
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions
The only one of the 6 listed,
that I think should get a HCIW clause in his contract is Doeren. I mean, the guy’s 38, and a helluva coach! We will not get someone like that as our DC if we DON’T offer HCIW, and we NEED someone like that as our DC. He really reminds me of a less-douchey Bob Stoops.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions
That may be true
And I’ve been wrong before (see I’ve gotta feeling).
I just think those clauses tend to backfire.
But I do like that he is so young, I want a new HC that will be around for a long time (after Bill is ready to step down on his own terms).
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions
If I had to guess,
I’d say Coach Snyder is here for 4-6 more years, depending on how he feels, health-wise. I don’t think he’s JoePa (that guy will still be coaching Penn State from his death bed!) or anything like that.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions
As evidenced by his previous retirement
Which by most accounts was not forced.
by ChrisP Wildcat on Oct 25, 2010 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
True, but
I have been hearing that it had something to do with his not wanting to make some shakeups on his coaching staff. I guess we’ll see what happens.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions
My gut said at least
7 years when he took back the job last year. i would be hard pressed to think he goes beyond 10 though. I just felt like the 5 years and then HCIW gig was all generated by the press because it sounded good, and don’t know how much clout there was to that
That was the case for FSU - and it led to the fiasco that was the ousting of Bobby Bowden.
There is reportedly no penalty in Muschamp’s contract.
I think it just depends on what the purpose of the HCIW tag is. In Texas’ case, I think it was just a way to keep Muschamp for a few more years and pay him a lot more money.
This is probably true,
but I think Muschamp is worth whatever Texas is paying him. He’s going to be a head coach some day, and if it’s not at UT, they may well regret it.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Damn
you beat me on Claeys. Thought I had plucked the overlooked gem from the bunch. Good eye.
Thanks, dude
One guy on your list I like but am doubtful of is Scott Schafer. I thought of him too when I made the initial post on Sunday morning, but just don’t see him leaving the ‘Cuse after only 2 seasons and the (quite frankly, startling) strides the Orange have made this year. Ditto Bedford after only 1 year at Louisville and the job they are doing there. Still, both would make great hires.
Another name I tossed about was Mark D’Onofrio of Temple. Al Golden’s staff has done a great job with that program.
by CT-K-Stater on Oct 26, 2010 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Current rankings of PTs against
According to ESPN.com, of the three current D-Coordinator of the top 6 as well as some others. It’s harder to give credit to position coaches, or coaches in a different division. Keep in mind it’s also somewhat indicative of who you play too.
In no particular order
KSU: 67th
Nevada: 31st vs worst competition of all 3
Wisc: T34th vs best competition of all 3
AFA: 45th vs decent competition (includes OU and TCU)
Other Non-AQ DCs suggested above:
SDSU: 15th (Held Mizzou to 27pts in Loss, AFA only other decent competition)
NIU: 21st
Ohio: T34th
Southern Miss: 46th
FIU: 71st
Troy: 77th
I know this really isn’t a true indicator of total defensive performance, but we all know points wins games, so it’s a way to compare team to team. For sure hard to dismiss what SDSU has done thus far.
Points are a reflection of many things,
but not necessarily your defense. Yardage against is a MUCH better indicator. And yardage per attempt (passing) and yardage per carry (rushing) is the best of all.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Off topic, but
I was reviewing the KSU record book doing research on the running back thing. This little factoid, in light of the present discussion, is depressing. Guess how many TOTAL rushing touchdowns our defense allowed in 12 games in the 1998 season — drumroll – are you READY for this: (3), as in THREE.
Good Lord, how have we fallen so far!
oh hail the Purple and White
Loved this thread...wish I would have jumped in earlier.
Regardless, in the short-term, I’m not above moving Burns up to Co-DC and letting him run the defense starting next year. In my dreams, Cosh moves on to a different job, but not because I think he brings “nothing” to the table; I think he’s a decent position coach. I just think he’s way, way overpaid as the Associate Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator. I mean, #$%&, really? Really?
That said, of all of the names thrown out there, I’d literally pass out in my own orgasm if Dave Doeren was hired here.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I am very disturbed by the imagery of your last sentence....
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions
As much as I am for knowing how true it is.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
And, for me, there's only one man in all of College Football I'd bet the farm on for HCIW...
and he’s not on the defensive side of the football.
When Del Miller retires, I want Kansas State to throw an ungodly amount of money and make exorbitant promises to get Gus Malzahn to come here. That’s all I ask for.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
That's really not that much to ask now, is it? ;)
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Also, another name to think about for DL coach...Chris Wilson (Miss. St.)
Dude moved around the Big 12 for about ten years before going to MSU to be Co-DC. He was at CU between 2000-2004, OU from 2005-2009, and now he’s at MSU. DL coach at all stops.
He’s originally from Dallas and recruited the Texas/Louisiana area for OU. Considering the need for us in both states, and how we’ve actually gotten some good pull from Louisiana as of late, it probably wouldn’t hurt to keep that pipeline alive.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I really really REALLY like the Louisiana/Texas ties.
Got a few more guys to thing about. What do you think about the whole “Head Coach at D-1AA versus Coordinator at D-1A” conundrum.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 25, 2010 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions
Everyone harps about experience, as in HC or Coordinator experience, but what I care about...
Is who they’ve been around.
Did the guy spend a lot of time at schools that seemingly “overachieved”? Was he a part of a rebuilding process at more than one school? Does he have a career trajectory that seems like experienced football coaches want him to be a part of the staff?
When I look at a guy like Dave Doeren, I see someone that helped completely rebuild Kansas football, and if folks followed recruiting back then, the guy was a freaking rainmaker. He was in on all of the kids, even if he wasn’t the primary recruiter. That may have changed with added responsibility, but he got the attention of someone Snyder certainly likes and respects, and DD has been doing a really nice job in Wisconsin for the past several years. He’s been around Mangino (who learned from Snyder and Stoops, who also learned from Snyder), and he’s learned from Bielma (who learned from Snyder).
When I look at a guy like Chris Wilson, he was at CU when Barnett was there, and that guy built Northwestern from nothing and had an amazing amount of consistent success at CU. He’s been around Bob Stoops. He’s a part of a really nice looking rebuild job at MSU under Urban Meyer’s right hand man (Dan Mullen). Even if he’s not a HCIW, he’d be a hell of a guy to take a flier on for DC.
I’d like to think I’m a moderately successful guy for my age, and I’d like to think the success I’ve had is partly due to the fact that when I’ve had an opportunity to study under someone that’s very successful, I’ve modeled what they’ve done and used it in my own way. I think there’s a lot to be said for people who take opportunities, but appear to be selective about what opportunities they pursue. I like someone that recognizes that paths to success that have already been traveled are probably worth following, but they’re also willing to travel them at their own pace and style.
Long story short, If someone has shown a strong career trajectory, and they’ve surrounded themselves with successful people, and those people are willing to learn from someone that’s ‘been there, done that’, I don’t care where they’ve come from. Jim Tressel has been wildly successful at Ohio State, and he was an FCS coach. Chip Kelly went to Oregon straight from being the OC at New Hampshire. If you know your stuff, you know your stuff, and if you have surrounded yourself with success, you’ll know how to be successful, regardless of where you came from.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Wow.
You should seriously write that up in a story or something, PJ. Maybe call it, “Where do good coaches come from? Everywhere!” or something like that. I think you’re hit the nail square, and I hope that the powers-that-be in our beloved university take the same approach.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 26, 2010 12:56 AM CDT up reply actions
If my life ever slows down, I have an offseason series planned about how I'd put together a football program at Kansas State
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
after an Adventures of the Big 12 -2 episode...right?
/subtleelbowjab
by WillieWannabe on Oct 26, 2010 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
just curious
I’m learning a bunch about different coaches and all, but unless someone on this board is HCBS, ADC or is sending either updates, this is speculation.
A fantasy football for football coaching, maybe next a post for building your own football coaching staff on a limited budget?
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Oct 26, 2010 5:51 AM CDT reply actions
Yes, I plan on doing that, eventually.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
I know for a fact ADC reads this blog.
I turned him on to it last year about this time and has mentioned current topics just about every time I see him.
Not that he would see this thread and use it to dictate his decision making, but he does read the site.
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Also, Mr. Currie, bathrooms in the upper deck. Soon? No?
Bring on the Cats
"Without getting into specifics, my exit involves a McFlurry machine and a video tape of risque commercials from overseas." -- Jack Donaghy
Hi Mr. Currie.
Good to know that he reads BOTC. Maybe TB or PJ can get him to answer some questions submitted from us.
And at least he’s figured out that at least a subset of the fans is not happy with the defense 8-).
The time for calm and rational discourse is past, now is the time for senseless bickering -Anonymous the Younger
by Anon_the_younger on Oct 26, 2010 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
Currie
Is great. I’ve done the ‘ask the AD’ function on Kstatesports.com, maybe 3 or 4 times and he’s replied every time, and he actually reads those. I must say that I am impressed with his commitment to fan feedback. I’ve liked the conference call idea, except for the 2 times I’ve been on them I was at work, so eventually I had to hang up when my job required the use of more concentration or the use of both of my hands…I usually clean my desk when those take place, but once I’m done cleaning it’s kinda hard to look like I’m working at my job with a phone up to my ear. I do know that bathrooms in the upper deck are one of the biggest priorities at the stadium.
Agreed
Currie has responded to me twice in the “ask the AD” function on the KSU athletics website. Very personable, professional and positive. I think he’s a great AD and with the combination of him and President Schulz the university has a great, visionary tandem at the helm and is well-placed for the future.
Yea really the Krause thing
May end up being a blessing in disguise. I think the fact that the two mentioned above came in circa the same time means quite a bit. With only 1 visionary, it might be easier for things to fizzle out, but with more than 1 (even my former college got a new dean about the same time: Architecture) they all want to do ambitious things, and I think that helps.
My life has meaning now
We'll carry the banner high!
Bring On The Cats
by TB on Oct 26, 2010 6:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Amen!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 26, 2010 7:41 PM CDT up reply actions
Quick! I'll run the pizza boxes to the dumpster!
You shove the piles of dirty clothes under the bed!
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 27, 2010 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Rocky Long - San Diego St. Defensive Coordinator
http://goaztecs.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/123108aab.html
San Diego St. almost beat Missouri this year and their defense was a big reason why. They were aggressive, and pressured Gabbert all day with different looks.
I'll have what you're smoking!
Coach Long
seems like a really good coach. But he’s 60 or so, and while I’m not sure what Coach Snyder will be looking for in Cosh’s replacement, but I certainly hope he has an eye towards who might be able to replace him some day.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 26, 2010 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions
Uh, that might come sooner than we suspect
if you look at what Josh Kinder is implying in the Mercury. Guess I might be proven wrong about Snyder not firing Cosh. Not that that would disappoint me, mind you…
And again, it begs the question I originally asked in the initial post up top:
How much was Cosh involved in the game-planning and game-day adjustments last year as "co-defensive coordinator"?
But what you have to understand...
The quote from Snyder right before Kinder implies Snyder might give Cosh the boot, is the same quote all K-state beat writers got from the press conference today, and they all use the same quotes in different ways to go with their story. If you simply read Snyder’s quote, I don’t really see that implication in the face value of the Head Coach’s words. But for certain an interesting take.
Agreed
Like I said, “if” you look at what Kinder “implied”, Snyder might consider changes on the coaching staff. Believe me, I’m well aware how journalists and the media use license and take quotes out of context or follow their own path with them in tow. I work with the media all the time in my own profession.
Just wanted to link to it as I thought it might be worthwhile for the staff here to take a look and ponder Kinder’s take.
Honestly, I don't see how else to take it.
I mean, he says flat out that it was the coaches’ fault:
“We just don’t have people where they’re supposed to be. That’s our problem, our issue. We need to coach them better.”
I mean, he couldn’t be more obvious about it, could he? Does that mean he’s considering firing Cosh? Who knows? But, if we see another 600+ yardage total on Saturday, and another 40+ point total, I think Cosh is done.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 27, 2010 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Well for one
Snyder, in true HC fashion, said “our”, using a collective term. I know that’s what you’re supposed to do as a HC, but to me I think he was referring to all of the coaches involved on the Defensive staff, not just one guy. I still think that, to think coaching changes are in consideration due to the two sentences quoted above, is reading into it a bit. But only time will tell.
Agreed all around
K.Scott – I threw the link to the Mercury article out there for the staff here to chew on, nothing more. Between GT’s comment and TB’s statement in his Slate:10-27 thread I felt it necessary to point out that I never said Snyder was going to fire Cosh. In fact, I’ve said plenty of times that I won’t believe Snyder will fire Cosh until I see it. Even a demotion to mere position coach I don’t expect.
That said, I agree with you about the quote. At the same time, I agree with GT, too, because I believe Snyder was commenting on the staff as a whole and – guessing here – he is putting the onus on himself foremost.
However, it should be stated that if Snyder lives by the mantra “we need to get a little bit better each day” than there is no way he’s looking at a defense that finished 44th last year, brought back much of the same personnel, is now ranked somewhere south of 110th in the nation, and not drawing conclusions about his staff.
Something is clearly very wrong, and regardless of any real or perceived talent shortcomings, coaching cannot be absolved from the equation – as Coach Snyder points out. I find it hard to believe that at some juncture once the season ends and he has taken stock of everything that Snyder doesn’t at least juggle the defensive staff or consider an outright change at defensive coordinator (emphasis on “consider”!).
And I’d love to know just how much input Cosh had last year on the D or whether he just held a “Co-defensive coordinator” title and Koenning did all the heavy lifting.
He said similar stuff after the NU game
He’s been using this line since 1992. It’s a way to try to keep heat off his kids. I don’t think he’ll fire Cosh mid-season. He won’t fire Cosh ever. We can only hope Cosh finds a better job. (Slim chance, I know)
oh hail the Purple and White
I swear I remember Coach Snyder firing someone.
Can’t remember who for sure, but I know I remember it.
"Coaching a football team is the most engrossing thing in the world. It is playing chess with human pawns." --Walter Camp
by K. Scott Bailey on Oct 27, 2010 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions
But maybe there's a place for the cliche
There’s a first time for everything. I think CT brings up a good point, that it’s hard to accept a slide from 44 all the way to (last I heard) about 100 in defensive rank. So maybe if HCBS hasn’t done it before, he knows he needs a different pawn in his aresenal than what’s there.
I’m sure the dinners at home with the family are at least a little bit tense for Cosh, I’m sure he’s well aware of the short comings. So as the eternal/hopeless optomist that I am, either I hope CC gets it turned around or HCBS acts out of character, and at least demotes the guy. I must admit though when I learned of HCBS v2.0’s newly assembled staff after taking the job again, I did cringe and say to myself “well, ok let’s hope it’s better than we remember” after learning that Cosh was on the staff. 2004, and 2005 were a little too fresh in the memory.
Bingo
Your last two sentences summed up my thoughts at the time, exactly. I kept thinking upon hearing Cosh was hired back, “Wasn’t he the one who oversaw our defensive collapse in 2004-05”? Also, at the time he was being lambasted by the Maryland fan base for his job as D-coordinator with the Terps. They were only too happy to see him go. The only thing that made me feel better about it was the hiring of Koenning. Still don’t know why Snyder didn’t reach out to Phil Bennett (or perhaps he did, who knows?), but to be realistic about it, Bennett wouldn’t have had the same quality of players this go-‘round that he inherited in 1999.
Like you said GT, no doubt this isn’t easy on Cosh and he’s certainly not happy about what’s going on any more than the fans are. Snyder seems to have faith in him; let’s hope that is rewarded over the last five games. And while the focus is on Cosh – rightly – someone on that defense needs to say “enough”, step up their game, and hope the rest of the unit rallies around them.
by CT-K-Stater on Oct 28, 2010 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions
You might be seeing that
The players realizing, they’re going to have to do it on their own…at least in one of the stories released yesterday (I think it was a Robinett story), but as I warned earlier, it could just be me reading into quotes.
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