The real problem that we both seem to be squabbling over is the complete lack of a direction for the program.
LHC Bill Snyder has his name on the stadium. Prince was a terrible coach, but LHC Bill Snyder did him no favors during his time here. Further, Bill has people inside the athletic department (it starts with his son) that he has chosen to protect and elevate to an "untouchable" status. He backed up his word by stepping down on this front.
LHC Bill Snyder's age is no secret, and if he tells the truth as much as Leland, he is here to "calm the waters" and then dock his boat. This mission and exit plan are completely undefinable. What the hell is a yes/no benchmark for whether Bill gets to say. As sick as it is, only he could set the terms at the outset and I know of nothing that would change that outside of KU getting better. We have created a situation where we feel so beholden to Bill, that we have sacrificed any planning for the future to live in a kind of nihilist nostalgia. There is no plan. There is no planning, because Bill is once again at the helm and he will remain there until he decides he will leave or until he is forced out by the powers that be.
Bill was the head coach during a wonderful time for many of us. He did some amazing things and he deserves recognition and praise for the accomplishments that he guided the team to.
But the myopic worship of Bill will prevent any semblance of proportionality, and make no mistake, the history has already been written. Any facts past or present to the contrary are dismissed because they do not fit the narrative.
What is there to root for at this juncure? I am in no position to know. If we can leverage a consistent bowl team in to a good hire, then that would be for the best and would be great. If we lose and Bill retires I don't know the outcome would be much different. Ultimately, Mr. Currie will have to stand up to Bill and Jack to make a decision that is best for the University.
But I won't send my money to support this quagmire. Snyder has been very selfish towards the end of his career. I don't think that he has put Kansas State first, I think he has placed his ego ahead. I know that he missed the game, that he heard from his friends and his colleagues and that he thought he was doing what was right. But Kansas State needs to move on. I don't know how much longer Bill can coach, but unless there is a legitimate Head Coach in Waiting brought in for next year, then this miserable slog will march on. With everyone lying to themselves and hoping for what once was. If Bill wins 10 games it would be wonderful.
But then what would we say when he asked for more time? Or if he demands that his son stay on to transition the program over? Or if he wants to bring in an old friend for the job because he "understands what it takes?"
The divorce needs to happen because Kansas State Football can no longer be synonymous with LHC Bill Snyder. For both our sakes. Here's hoping it is amicable for both parties. Relax Bill, you've earned it.
