honest question: how much better shape are we in now than 2009?
Well, we have 85 guys on scholarship, about $175 million in stadium/facility upgrades (with more on the way), and we're three years removed from a Big 12 title. The AD has money to pay this coaching staff nearly $6 million a year in total.
I'd say it's night and day considering the financial and facility constraints we saw ten years ago. This is actually a pretty good job. I know we're blasting the talent, but there's good front line talent to work with. I mean, Christ, we have multiple Gatorade POY's from their respective states, a high 3-Star dual threat QB that should have four more years of eligibility, and if the guy is a decent recruiter at all, should be able to keep Thompson in the fold.
I keep saying his name over and over again, but I'd have to believe Justin Fuente would take this job. Especially if we are willing to pay $3 million a year with an understanding that if he has quick success, we can go into the $4 million range like Baylor did with Briles.
At the very, very least, Venables would come back. And that's not a bad fall back option. Currie just has to be willing to make that call. I mean Philip Montgomery would definitely listen if they're that desperate for someone with HC experience.
I think MIR (don't want to misrepresent his stance) has been saying, and I agree, that this is a year where good openings may be limited. Obviously, there's USC and So. Carolina, but most of the major powers are entrenched right now. The Big Ten powers are set with established or new guys that they won't fire. The SEC seems set. I guess Malzahn's seat may be a little warm, but nothing to necessitate making a move right now. Arkansas...maybe. I think Maryland is a dog crap job, but they may say the same about us.
Overall, I think this is a year with good coaches are available and openings will be relatively low compared to the average. That's the time you need to make a transition.
