New Beginning
I hope everybody had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and was able to take some time to enjoy friends and family. My wife and I spent the week with our family in Colorado and then traveled to Boulder to watch the Huskers play. I wish Friday could have been as enjoyable as the days leading up to the game, unfortunately it was just as miserable as most Saturday’s this past year. I just don’t get it, I sit in the stands and look down to the field and I see a group of kids that are physically more gifted than our opponent; bigger, faster, stronger, everything you want when you take the field on gameday. Can the defenses that are being called be that bad or do our guys just not understand what it takes to be successful? I am a firm believer that if you have 11 men on the field that refuse to be blocked and want to make a play, then it doesn’t matter what defense is called. You should be able to play base defense all day and still be able to compete. Our guys don’t understand what it takes to play at a winning level. They look like they are pacing themselves out there, exerting just enough energy on each play to make sure that they make it through the entire game. That’s not how you play this game or at least not how I was taught. “Everything you got, every single play!”
It’s never a good day when somebody gets fired but there was no other option. Nebraska football, Nebraska fans, Nebraska players deserve so much more than what they were given the last four years. Coach Osborne did the right thing, the farther this program slides the harder and longer it will take to get it back to the championship level we all once knew. Callahan, I truly believe gave his best, his best just isn’t what Nebraska needed. An NFL coach doesn’t make a college coach, what works in the big leagues doesn’t necessarily work at the collegiate level. It’s too bad he never really tried to understand the tradition of the program and why it is so special to so many people. I don’t want to sit here and talk about all the bad things Cally did, it’s history, he had his shot and failed. I want to talk about the excitement that is surrounding the Husker family right know.
Coach Osborne is traveling the country as we speak looking for the next great head football coach of the University of Nebraska. Who do you guy’s want to lead our beloved Cornhuskers back to the Promised Land? I want to hear who the fans want. For me there is a good group of coaches out there right now. There are some proven head coaches and there are some great up and comers. Names like Jim Grobe, Bo Pelini, Paul Johnson, Bud Foster to name a few. Oh yeah Turner Gill might ring a bell for some of you. I don’t know all the coaches Coach Osborne is going to interview but I sure hope he meets with all of the above. A guy like Jim Grobe, I think would be perfect here, demands a running game out of his players and playing defense with maximum effort is a must. Bo Pelini hasn’t had a head job yet but I know his players love him and they play very motivated. Paul Johnson, the culture he believes in is very Nebraska like, can he make the jump to a big time program. Bud Foster, for you Pelini fans, better take a look at this guy because all he does is put tough, nasty defenses on the field for the last ten years. Turner Gill, he’s played here, coached here, he’s loved here but is that enough on the resume to make sure he can bring the Big Red out of the dead.
We should be prepared for a decision to come fairly quick. I know Coach Osborne doesn’t want this search to drag out like the last time we tried to hire a coach. He wants to make sure we get our first choice this time. I am going to be writing a couple more entries this week because of everything that is going on, so make sure you check back in a few days and don’t forget to give me your comments. I want to know, who you think the next coach of Nebraska is going to be. Later JP
Hey Jason,
Another great article to wrap up the season. Hope we hear more from you during the offseason. As requested, here are some of my personal favorites for the job, in order:
1. Brian Kelly - not exactly the "Husker bred" name you would expect, but this guy has won every where he is been. It is that winning attitude this team needs right now, more than anything.
2. Turner Gill - I think Gill is ready for the big stage. If he can take an awful Buffalo team, that won 5 games in 8 years, before he showed up, and take them to 5 wins in conference in his 2nd year, he has some coaching expertise. The Nebraska ties don't hurt either.
3. Bo Pelini - he'll whip the defense back into shape real quick. He has the athletes right now, they just need a kick from Bo to get jump started. Bo Pelini combined with a great offensive coordinator would be an excellent route to go.
4. Bill Cowher - not sure if he is a possibility, or if he'd even be interested considering he'd probably have his pick of opening NFL jobs next fall. But, why take a runt NFL team when you can bring back one of the greatest college football programs of all time other than money (which he has plenty of). If he was interested, he would EASILY be my top pick.
Just a few there. Take care Jason.
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Personally,I still believe Lloyd Carr has a couple of championship seasons left in him and I do think he could get the Husker program untracked and back on top!!
Lloyd's a winner, and tougher than a boiled combat boot!
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As a Husker fan living in Big Televen country, you do not want Lloyd Carr. He old and tired that's not what we need. This season has taken a lot out of him.
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Are you insane? That would be the equivalent of hiring Mack Brown; another coach with an infinite amount of talent but can't coach his way out of a wet paper bag. Why do you think we were able to beat them two years ago at the Alamo Bowl? I'm not interested in switching from dumb to dumber...
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Well my first choice would be...
Tom Osborne LOL!
Seeing how that is unlikely, I'll trust Tom's choice to bring back the fierceness that we are so sadly lacking.
My comment, or rather question, is this. Given the abundance of talent and the lack of intensity, does anyone think that these players might have been saving themselves for the NFL? I know it sounds goofy, but even without a combine invite many of the players could get looked at individually. That question being asked, do you think this lead may have come, intentionally or unintentionally from a head coach that openly bragged that he could show players how to get to the next level? I mean Marlon Lucky actually admitted that he was cruising along on autopilot for much of this season, what di you think? It sure would explain a lot...
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Hey Jason,
I don't think you can have any other option than Pelini. I think that most of the other coaches named would do good here, but I just feel that if we don't get Bo now, we'll be kicking our selves down the road. The downside to him though, is that it may take a little bit longer for him to bring this program back than some of the other guys, but in the long run I truly believe he is the best choice.
I believe this because, you have to be someone special for a Nebraskan to truly embrace you, especially for only being here one year. I think with him you have 3-5 years of rocky seasons, but the one thing that you'll never see is a lack of intensity on the field. At times this season you could see the players, as you would say, loafing, I can guarentee that would not happen with him at the helm. Other than intensity, our biggest problem is defense, and we know he knows how to scheme defensivley. Is he the greatest defensive coordinator out there? Probably not, but he doesn't do anything to hurt you either.
The other thing that I would like to see is Shawn Watson stay on as offensive coordinator. I think he had a good grasp of this style of offense, and it would be good for the players if a couple of familiar faces stuck around. Also I think he would bring back a solid power running game mixed with a good passing attack, The offense seemed to have a little bit of a better spark to it when he became more involved.
So those are some of my thoughts on coaches. I'll be listening to the show tomarrow to get your thoughts on who you would like to see. So take care, and keep up the good work.
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Well My first choice is still Turner Gill...I know it's not the popular vote, But I have my reasons and I am sticking with them. I have no doubt he is and would be an effective leader, has integrity, a great work ethic and all you would want from a head coach
eccept of course the experience factor.
He is known as a good recruiter.
A head coach can't do it all on his own, he has to surround himself with talented assistants too.
Pelini's been getting torched lately by big numbers, but that can happen in an attacking high reward high risk defensive style.
I feel that Turner got totaly disrespected by Pederson, hell he was assistant head coach and Pelini was appointed by Pederson to be the interim
head coach...I don't care what the reasoning was that was out of line.
If Nebraska wants to ever get back to
what was right then they as a program and we as fan base better figure out the difference between right and wrong
and bring loyalty to the program back into the mindset.
Pride and loyalty along with burning desire to succeeed is what built the tradition.
But no matter what happens, I have faith in T.O. and he certainly knows alot better than me about what is best
and who he chooses to entrust his baby to this time.
I will get behind whoever he chooses without questioning his judgement and maybe one day I can again shed tears for a coaching staff, his group of dedicated, hard working young men and a state of great fans and then be accused a secong time for actually being passionate about something.
Dang I feel sorry for this group of players and the winter conditioning they are in for...nope I don't envy them at all lol....might weed out a few quitters and emege in the spring with a few true leaders I have a feeling.
Thanks Jason,
For giving us this little corner away from the message boards to air some thoughts and frustrations during this
crazy time.
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Jason,
Love the blog and the show. Don't know who SHOULD be coach...although I'm big on Jim Grobe. One name I'm just surprised we're not hearing is Dan Mullen, OC of Florida.
Like TO in his time, this is a young, cutting edge coach who could make a home here for a long time.
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JP
Totally love the idea of Bud foster myself. He coaches up one helluva a Defense year in and year out, his boys have the exact type of intensity we USED to show and need again. And he comes from the program that has probably the best special teams over the last decade, that had to have rubbed off on him. There is the cure to what ails us in my opinion. We will be fine on Offense (if we don't try to revert back to run all the time that is) as long as we stay within our ability horizon.
On another aspect of this, I dont want this search to drag out, but I think it should take more than a few days to find our coach. I would not be disappointed if we waited until next Monday or so to name our new HC.
I am looking forward to hearing your show and your thoughts on this all week.
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I'm surprised that there is only one "yea" in the comments section for Foster (so far). I dropped his name on another board on Friday or Saturday and got a couple "who's that?" responses. I do, however, think he's worth a look. Some bells should go off about Bo being a poor recruiter (recruiting is NOT everything, but it sounds like he doesn't like it in the least).
All I know is that I'm glad that I don't have to make this decision!
JP-- been looking for an entry all weekend, glad to see it and to so that you didn't take the low road and pile on Cally. My opinion about him as HC doesn't differ much from yours or anyone else's out there, but he did his best and everything crashed around him-- that has to hurt like hell.
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Jason,
Why has Kevin Steele's name not come up as a potential head coach? It seems he has a lot of the attributes we are looking for. Great at recruiting, defense oriented, knowledge of our program and traditions. I know you must know him. What are your thoughts?
Thanks, Rick
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Personally, I like the idea of either Brian Kelly or Bo Pelini. We have all seen the fire Pelini brings to the table and would love to see it back. As for Kelly, I have heard several national columnists refer to him as the next Urban Meyer. I wonder who in this country wouldn't want the next Urban Meyer.
Have great day all! Brighter days are ahead.
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This is just mind wrenching! This descision is so huge! Though I do think anyone we get is gonna be better than Coz/Cally, but we want something w/promise in the future. something that's gonna stabilize this program for 15 years or more, on both sides of the ball. The head coach is obviously huge, but I believe you need excellent assistant coaches guys that work directly w/position players somebody that can TEACH them technique and extract all possbile ability out of these kids(watching these D-lineman was so painful on Fri. on every replay our guys would just go w/the O-line flow and not try to disrupt anything, and the tackles always have there hands down underneath the O-lineman, shouldn't they have there hands up and heads on a swivle? frustrating regardless). There are a lot of great coaches out there but how would they fit at NU is hard to say. I think Gill or Pelini would be a great fit for HC, but then you immediatley have to look at assistants. Personally I would like to see Pelini as HC and Gill as AssistantHC and OC, Then you have the best of both worlds NU ties and some fire w/pelini and stability and a certain calmness w/Gill. Bring in Dan McCarney for DC and Scott Frost as LB's coach and Marvin Sanders as DB's coach. What about you, your brother, or Grant as D-line coach, you still get me fired up when i hear you talkin', just a thought! On the offense maybe try to retain Shawn Watson as QB's coach or a more expanded role, if willing, and find a nasty run first line coach to teach these guys to block downhill and not these freaking soft stretch plays. Eiter way it's gonna be an exciting couple of weeks to say the least. GO BIG RED
P.S. - Loved the Brokeback quote on Friday that was hilarious!!
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Mike,
Your dead on in regards to the assistant coaches. I believe the importance of all the assistant coaches is greater than just 1 man. These are the teachers that are working with the kids everyday, they will be the one who has the most influence on the player. Will it be a great head coach that turns Suh into a stud, NO! It's the position coach who works with him on the field as well as the meeting room. I like the possibilities you mentioned above, having both Gill and Pelini on the same staff. As far as me, Christian or Grant coaching the D-Line, well Christian doesn't have any coaching experience although I think he would do a great job, playing 7 years in the NFL forces you to know a little about football. Grant, I can't speak for him but I am pretty sure he is loving his stress free life, he coached a little H.S. football this past year and is enjoying retirement. As for myself, Nebraska would be the only place I would have interest in coaching, I've coached football in California for a few years at a powerhouse H.S. in Orange County, so I know my way around a football team. Right now I enjoy doing the radio show but I am open to all possibilities. JP
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JP,
I just talked to Christian the other day and he wanted to be mentioned for the head coach position. He said and I quote "all I have to do is hire assistants that are smarter than him and that wouldn't be hard to do." LOL
He's a classic.
Doak
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Christian has my vote! Nice work there Doak, that is funny stuff. I could just picture him saying that.
Roger (in California)
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Jason,
From listening to you on the radio and reading your comments, it's clear to me that you would bring a special kind of intensity and insight into the NU coaching ranks. Any head coach would be a fool to miss getting you on board. You would be my D-line man for sure!
Of course besides yourself I would like to see some position coaches like Scott Frost, Cory Sleschinger and Tom Rathman!
It's not ALL about bleeding Cornhusker Red, but those that have done so KNOW what is going to be expected by the fans and former players.
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I'm not entirely sure Osborne gets the right guy (his last hand picked guy was not the right guy...). Regardless, the next guy will be far and away better than BC. For every good thing BC did, there were two things he didn't get or wouldn't change.
I think the entire list of candidates that has been bandied around so far are all good choices. I think they all bring something to the table. I think the things we should be looking for specifically (beyond the obvious things that have already been stated - college understanding, fire, developer of talent):
- Who else will a coach bring with him. If you hire Bo, who is his desired OC. If its Gill, who is his DC?
- What is the coach's desire to make NU his career? Is the guy coming for the $$$ and prestige, or is he coming to be a part of the family until he retires? Continuity was something that Osborne valued.
I personally want to see Bo. I think he'll surround himself with a staff that will bring the blackshirts back to the nasty swarming defense we all want to see. I think he'll find a good offensive mind that will continue to draw the recruits. I think he'll be raw and make mistakes, but he'll make them full speed.
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We can only hope that the new coach is coming to be part of the family and not just for a paycheck. Pelini would have to learn on the run but if he is smart he would lean on a legend that has an office right above his. He would be good for the defense because he gets the kids to play hard, my biggest question on him is "How good are his scheme's?" Quite a few times this year the opponent has put up some big numbers on his defense. I'm a guy who believes you should be able to play an entire game in base defense so scheme doesn't bother me too much but I thought it would be worth taking a look. JP
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Charles/Jason,
I agree with both of you, but I don't think that Bo is out for the money, I think he wants the chance to be a HC. I think he loved NU, and NU loved him, and I don't think, Pelini or definitely Gill would have a problem asking for TO's opinion on a situation. I do with the combination of the two could some how be worked out.
BC, had the guy right there to ask and he never attempted to ask TO what he would do, I am glad BC is gone that's for sure.
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I think you'd have to really look at the games to understand Pelini's D at LSU. For example, in the Florida game, the D gave up 24 points, but 0 pts in the last 15 minutes - Against a team that has averaged roughly 45 pts a game. As far as I'm concerned, Pelini has a "feel" for calling a defensive game, which helps him. He gets the most out of his talent, and he knows how to use the talent. He makes in-game adjustments. He's not afraid to gamble with his blitzes, and again, he has a good feel for calling them. I don't think he comes in and has the best 4-year stretch of any coach ever or something, but I think that we play nasty next year.
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Jason, if it is Gill, why hasn't anybody asked Tom Osborne if he would be willing to come back for a few years as offensive coordinator? I haven't heard ANYBODY ask this, and it seems like something that sould at least be explored. Tom has said he misses coaching; this will allow him back in (with less work then a head coach), while at the same time mentoring Gill in his first few years.
Will somebody ask Tom if he would be willing to come back as an offensive coordinator under Turner Gill?
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Put down the pipe.
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Jason,
Great comment. My choice for coach would be Bo P. I feel our defense is a real problem right now and he could whip them into shape. My dream team would be the combination of Gill on offense, assistant HC and Bo P as head coach, and then bring back some of you guys, you, Minter, Frasier, Frost, Wistrom, any of you guys that know what it takes to win and compete with passion, heart and determination. I know it will never happen, but it would be a special combination.
I know Pelini doesn't have long term HC-ing experience, but he has to start somewhere and be given the chance, what better place needs a coach that knows defense, our biggest need right now. I also think that Watson, would not be a bad idea to keep for offense, Ganz knows that system and with the right coaching, he could be very successful next year.
What do you think and who is your first choice. I am so glad the nightmare is over, I will support whatever coach is brought in, I just want the real Huskers to please STAND UP, or let us at least find them again.
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My guess would be Turner Gill based upon Coach Osborne's writings and beliefs.
I truly wish people would take a second look at Pelini and his resume against spread/high octane offenses in pressure situations. He ALWAYS gets torched. Big time. Yet that NEVER comes up in conversation with him, which is ridiculous. If for some bizarre reason TO does hire Pelini, don't expect any championships.
There is also the belief that when Tressel retires from OSU they'd come straight after Pelini.
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I just finished writing the same concern on Pelini in another comment. His defenses have given up some major points in a few games this year, it is a major concern in my mind. I hope the next coach will see this job as a destination and not just a layover. This program needs stability, it's the foundation this program was built on. JP
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I think it's a real big concern and isn't mentioned enough.
He does have a big problem defending spread O's and it's not like he doesn't have talent there at LSU lol.
Prob 2-3 first rounders.
Sure if your goal is 7-5 consitently, then Pelini's the guy.
I also think his personality would
do damage to many relationships with assistants.
He's a hothead and if he was in charge and knew the buck stopped with him, then what happens if things go bad?
If he has no problem chasing down an opposing coach after a game and chewing his ass, crying like a girly man about running up the score, then how will he handle other tough situations.
If you don't want the score ran up on you then devise a bettwer defensive game plan fool, don't cry like baby when you don't get the job done.
Hell no I don't want that type of whiner as my head coach.
Shut up ,say congrats with a little humbleness, and get back to work the next week to prevent it from ever happening again.
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I haven't studied Pelini and his system much but if what you state is true about his defense. "He ALWAYS gets torched against spread/high octane offenses in pressure situations." Then we don't want him do we? Kansas, Colorado, Mizzou, T-Tech, OSU, aTm, all currently run some type of spread, and Texas did when it had VY. That is more than half the conference. We can't afford to not be able to defend the spread.
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One thing you are forgetting, there is no solution to defending the spread as of this moment other then having better players man for man, position for position. Do a Google on defending the spread or send a e-mail or call into some of the weekly talk shows with pro or college coaches and you will get the same answer that as of this moment there is no magic bullet for defending the spread. If someone is bringing the spread you simply have to bring a better team. It exploits weaknesses in defenses that can only be fixed by having 11 better players on the other side of the football not just physically or x's and o's but heart. You need a defense that is going to be able to bounce back from giving up 70 yards in the opening drive against a spread option but have the fire to say "This is my end of the field, my territory, my line marker, and no body is getting by me without some serious physical punishment.". We need a more physical football team that can wear out a team.
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Some really nice ideas there, fellows; very retrospective; much keen insight.
You know, I can recall Woody Hayes WALKING
to Toledo rather than buying gasoline in MICHIGAN; I can still see Bear Bryant chartering a bus for several players ( to take them home) when he believed they were doggin' him at practice.
Coaches such as the likes of Coach Hayes and Coach Bryant, and of course Coach Devaney and Coach Osborne, are legendary
not only because of their winning ways, but because they possessed a constitution that might well have given Leonidas ten more days at Thermopylae!
AND-they demanded the same of their players!
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Gabe,
Nebraska needs a coach like the one's you mentioned. Sometime who demands maximum effort , someone who sets the bar extremely high and won't except anything but excellence. JP
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HC bo peleini- he hires marvin sanders as DC- keep watson as OC get watson to simplify the offense- some sort of spread sytem- mike leach and others use a managable amount of plays with some offerring different twists to them keep joe rudolph and maybe gilmore and busch and we would roll next year!
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Jason, you were GREAT on the pregame show on Channel 7! Can't wait for your radio show this afternoon. GO BIG RED!
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Well at least our competition for coaches just got smaller. No AtM needing a coach now, I guess they hired Mike Sherman aka Callahan south...
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Hey JP...
I know that Pelini and Gill are the fan favorites at this point, mainly because of their ties to the program. It sounds like Coach Osborne would prefer that, but do you think that could eventually limit how successful this program could become in the future?
I think Paul Johnson would bring the discipline of the Academy and that would be a step in the right direction.
Or how about Brent Venables?? I can't believe I haven't seen that name mentioned more often. He's very recognized, even as a coordinator and think he's ready for a HC job. He knows what it takes to win in the Big XII and would respect the traditions that you and your brothers have built.
What do you think about BV?
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Brotha dawg - good stuff each week.
Like you, I am excited and glad things are changing for the better. I see your list of guys & would like to add one since you asked. I hope there is serious consideration for Chris Petersen (HC Boise State). He is 22-2, he beat OU in the Fiesta Bowl (Huge win), he is young, motivated, players & fans love him, and he was their OC for 5 years prior to taking over the job. I'm sure someone is going to swoop him up at some point. Hate to look back and think "what if".
I like Gill, cant stand Pelini. The other candidates are decent. But is that what is needed? Just glad the decision is in Dr. Tom's hands. Whoever he picks, I will support.
Thanks JP, keep up the good stuff and keeping it real.
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I am for either Bo or Turner, or even both, but I don't think Bo would come back to Nebraska as an Assistant - Only has a head coach, but Turner does have alot of ties to Lincoln.....
I believe that Osborne will not rush to a decision and he will hire the one who best fits what he is looking for - Intensity and Integrity....
One aspect that doesn't seem to be mentioned is the possibility of Osborne mentoring the new hire... Why not hire someone who is up and coming, but not there yet and mentor them for a few years so they can understand the program and traditions... Crazy idea I know, but it worked for a guy down south with the last name Stoops.....
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J.P I enjoy your articles, and your blog. I want to see Bo as head coach, but here is a name I want to throw out as a possible assistant head Coach. Jon Tenuta @ G.T. Chan Gailey just got fired, so he will be a sought after coach. His defenses with his zone blitz packages are tough on spread offenses, Since everybody in the Big 12 wants to play them. If Bo is the next head coach, he will a great assistant coach/recruiter I think Tenuta is someone who is a rising star in the coaching ranks, what do you think?
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How about this? Chris Peterson HC-maybe he hires Marvin Sanders as DC and we would be vey,very good right away! Hope TO covers all these kinds of bases.
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My vote would be for Bo but at the same time Jason makes a great case with Bud Foster who had the top total defenses in 2005 and 2006. I think either of them couldn't go wrong and hostly I would lean towards Bud or Bo because of our upcoming schedule. Bo showed he knows what it takes to shut down Oklahoma and with them in our midst for the next two season I'd want him on my sideline if possible. Bud would also be good because of the amazing defenses he has produced in recent years not to mention we will be playing his Hookies in the next two years. Either way bring someone who can rebuild the blackshirts. Its been said a million times over but the majority of the time in football it is defense that win football games. All of our loses should reflect that. On a normal day the offensive stats we stacked up should = a win but considering how pitiful our defense has been it did not = a win. There are some serious problems for our blackshirts ... don't make the same mistake twice ... don't let the blackshirts become a dieing breed.
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Jason,
Thank you for the insight and comments you have been providing. I have a question: Unfortunately, it appears a culture of losing has enveloped our present players...(or to be more precise), a culture that when our guys get punched in the mouth, they don't get angrier and fight back harder but rather seem to roll over and die very easily.
Anyone who takes over will have the immediate task of challenging and changing that mindset and
re-establishing the mentality that served you, your teammates and our program so well for so long.
In your opinion, how is that done during the offseason? Granted, when 2008 starts, getting some wins will do wonders for team confidence and morale but I know there is so much more behind the scenes that goes into building (or in our case, rebuilding)team confidence. Great coaches have done this before to be sure but I'm wondering if you can provide some further insight since I am just a supporter and do not see what all goes on behind the scenes.
Thank you and I wish you and yours (and all Husker fans) my best Holiday wishes.
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Good Job Jason! I would like a Head Coach that knows the Husker Tradition and do what it takes to get wins. Also, bring back the walk on program that has been the back bone of Husker Football! Keep up the good work.
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JP,
It's great to have you back!
Coach Pelini IS the correct man for the job.As Marvin Sanders once said,"His players give effort unlike anybody else. He has an aura that makes guys want to play for him." He's a blue collar boy from Youngstown, OH.(Steel Country) Played for Bob and Mike Stoops father, at Cardinal Mooney H.S. He was a standout free safety at Ohio State(87-90) earning academic All-Big Ten 3 years, and was team captain his Sr. year. After 9 years coaching defense in the NFL(7 playoff teams), he came to the Huskers in 2003.(#2 scoring defense)His 1 career game as Head Coach against Michigan St. in the Alamo Bowl(17-3 victory) they held MSU to 174yds.(210 below their avg.) Sacked QB Jeff Smoker 5 times and intercepted him 3 times. In 2004 at Oklahoma(#11 scoring Def.) In 2005 at LSU(#3 scoring Def.) 2006 at LSU(#4 scoring Def.) According to Coach Pelini, his defensive philosophy is "not a system, rather a mindset... FULLOUT 4 QUARTERS!" JP, he'll bring Marvin Sanders back for sure and hopefully you'll be our D line coach! HELL YEA!! The GANG TACKLING will be back! I trust TO totally, but please, please bring back Coach Pelini. GBR GBR GBR
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Is anyone else a little curious about the loyalty of Cosgrove. Ultimately, Callahan got fired because of his refusal to address the problem of the defense, being headed by his good friend KC. In the end, BC gets fired (albeit with a very nice severance check), but KC is kept on staff. Personally, I would have liked to see KC resign out of loyalty to his friend who lost his job.
Maybe that's wishful thinking, but it would be nice for him to show his friend some love.
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Grobe keeps getting brought up but I think he's much more of a risk than Gill or Pelini. Sure, he's won some coaching awards (ACC coach and AP coach of the year), but there are some strikingly similar stats. He's won only around half the games he's ever coached. Sounds pretty similar to Callahan to me.
Also, this is a guy that even Callahan managed to beat twice. The first time in Lincoln they gave Wake a beating and Wake went on to win the ACC, so I doubt it's a lack of talent. Also, Grobe is on contract with Wake through 2016. Also, he is pretty unfamiliar with our tradition other than what he's seen from the opposing sideline (if you can call what we had while Cally was here tradition). There are too many question marks.
Osborne said it himself: that losing isn't so bad as long as we're competitive. We sure as hell wouldn't have that problem with Pelini or Gill. They'd at least play their hearts out, so why not give one of them a shot?
Overall, I think we're still trying to recover from Osborne. The man is a legend, and how often do coaches like that come along? The reality is we might not be competing for national championships or conference championships for the next few years (especially with KU and Mizzou playing like they have this season). We've become a little spoiled. Not saying Cally didn't need to go, because he certainly did. Losing isn't always the end of the world. I've never minded when the Huskers have lost, as long as they've played well. That's all any of us can ask for.
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Keep in mind that Grobe is at a school that has a similar number of students as Lincoln High did when I went there. The standards to get in to Wake Forest are on par with Duke. And you also need to keep in mind that he coaches football at a basketball school. It is not like he can recruit just anybody, he has a very limited pool of student athletes. I am not one that wants Grobe as coach, but don't undervalue the mans accomplishments, what he has done at Wake is remarkable, nothing less.
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I apologize for that. I was unaware exactly how small Wake is. They only have around 4000 students, and yes, they are first and foremost a basketball school. I knew as soon as I found that out I had stuck my foot in my mouth. I'm not on the Grobe bandwagon, but now I see why others are.
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Bought season tickets to Wake to see Husker game, but was impressed by their performance all year. If Skinner (starting Q
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That's what Grobe does, he takes average talent and gets them to play hard and inspired. Think what he could do with the kids that we have. JP
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Jim Grobe should be the guy.
Don't take the risk with Bo and Gill.
Go Huskers!!!
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Jason,
Why hasnt Monte Kiffin's name been mentioned in the search, is he a legit candidate or not? I heard on ESPN today that his son, Lane, was quoted as saying that his dad wanted the nebraska job quite dearly and that there would be a possibility of the Ol Miss coach joining him as a coordinator since the two are close friends. Have you heard any truth to this or have an opinion on it?
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Hey Jason,
Once again we're on the verge of making the most important decision that will be made for the "Big Red Machine" for the foreseeable future.
We the true fans, who really understand the way of life that Nebraska Football represents for the Big Red Nation, realize a miss can't be afforded with this choice!
Because of the importance of this choice, I am so extremely happy that Coach Osborne is involved, (I wish Coach Devaney was still alive to assist) I know that Coach will be more than diligent in his efforts to locate the right person to fill this vacancy.
As each day comes & goes I can't wait for the announcement to be made that will start the future for our program.
God Bless Nebraska!
E.R. Howell
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I like gladiators and spartans! Give me a name like Maximus Decimus Meridius as commander of the Big Red Army. A true emperor who can be loyal to the Nebraska tradition.
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I believe Bo would be the best choice of canidates. He bring a special spark to the players and knows exactly what is expected. He is a loyal Husker Nation candidate, and knows how special this program is to the state. He has taken the bull by the horns before on our sidelines and I think we should give him a chance.
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Here's a nice read at a LSU BB.
Lol most of them don't mind if we want him, one offered to drive Bo here.
lmao
Bo knows defense, but Bo also knows getting lit up by spread O's
just ask any LSU fan lol.
Do we really want LSU leftovers?
Is that how far we have fallen that we will just be happy to get someone who can yell real good at opposing coaches and his players.Sometimes you get what ya want though.
I could be wrong, but I hope it isn't Bo as our next coach, but if it is I will give him a chance and see what kind of staff he puts together and what they can do.
http://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/MessageTopic.asp?p=5713449&Pg=1
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Jason,
You are doing a fantastic job and you look great!!! I sat with my 84 yr old grandmother(in elkhorn,NE)we totally enjoyed your invigorating brutal honesty. on ch 7 (especially the brokeback mtn part) how refreshing. I now live and sell real estate in the vail valley and I left in the middle of the third qtr bc of weather etc...(and how much they suck) i ran into so many heavy faces along I80;I70 &I76 it was a shame...(cu fans are horrible, at least we have that going 4 us we have classy fans) I think the whole program has to go back to the simplicity of things, put the $$$$$(never gonna Happen) out and focus on not the "pretty boys" and find some corn fed boys from the 90's.(hard hittin boys) We all loved watching you guys play...the whole stadium rumbled like a burning inferno WE NEED TO FIND NEW REAL BLACKSHIRTS WHO CAN REALLY WEAR THEM>>>>>And an offence with some passion Those boys need to dig deep and want it.They do not feel it like you did. What a joke!!! (and a coach who can bring it to em bad calls only go so far) Bring your family out to ski anytime. Kudos to you!!!!!!
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brokeback quote fabulous!!!!!!!
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Jason,
would u ever want to coach??
You should............
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JP, after reading all of the entries, I'm still undecided on who I would like to see as head coach. There are a lot of great options out there. I hesitate to say I want Bo mainly because what would happen if his first couple years he went 6-6. The fans would go nuts and want his head on a platter. I mean we are the greatest fans in college football but yet at the same time we are also the most critical of the coachs. We demand excellance immediately and sometimes that just does not happen. I do agree that we need to have someone come in who wants to be a HUSKER forever and be a member of the HUSKER family and not just be here for a paycheck. That is why someone with Husker ties would be a good fit. A person who knows the pressures, expectations and rewards. For as much as I would like to see you or other former Husker greats be asst. coaches, I would not like to see things go south and then people start critisizing you and the next thing you know the former great player is known as a loser coach and not worth a damn. Not a single one of us who posts here can predict what the future has in store for our beloved HUSKER program. I just hope that we all support the decision T.O. makes and we welcome the new head coach and his assts. Believe me, I want my HUSKERS back. I want the order restored. I want to see players with passion for the game. So now, the wait begins, the spring game is only five months away. The 07 season is done and hopefully forgotten by now. Let us turn our attention to the future of HUSKER Football and get our BIG RED juices flowing again.
"THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE NEBRASKA, DEAR OLD NEBRASKA U"
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I have full confidence in Dr. Tom's pick for the new HC. I would love to see Paul Johnson given an interview, but I don't think he stands much of a chance. I suspect that TO will think PJ will be perceived as too old school to satisfy today's fans, but I think that the triple option with a healthy dose of passing is virtually an unstoppable offense.
JP, thanks for being outspoken in this troubled time for Husker fans. I'm glad to see there are still a few former Huskers that care enough about the program to voice their opinions. Best of luck!
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Ahhh, Friday seemed so long ago. Good thing because that was embarrassing, again.
Onto the present. If I had to hire someone today I would lean toward Brian Kelly from Cincinati. He's been a winner at each school and really turned Cincy into a contender. That being said I don't think he'll be the guy. Between Bo and Turner I guess I would lean toward Bo. Ideally Bo would assenble a great staff with some ex Huskers to help resurrect the program with possibly Turner on the staff. But no matter who is hired they'd be a fool not to ask and glean as much info from the man upstairs as they can. T.O. did have a pretty good idea how to build this thing into what it was.
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I think T.O. will come up with a solution that none of us thought of, then make it sound like a perfect fit, and we'll all say "JEEZ" - why didn't I think of that. Oz will do something really "out of the box." Otherwise, one of us common folk could have become the Interim A.D., then cave in to fandom pressure, and get Turner or Bo.
Just my opinion.
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Salt and Pepper hire . Bo and Turner . White and black , As in Hot and cold . I like the combination . Bo for his fieriness and Gill for his down to earth level headedness .
I see where one could feed off the other . The fire of one could be toned down by a level head from the other . The some times too quiet Gill would be bolstered by the fire brought by Bo !
So Bo as HC , Gill Asst HC/OC Dan Mac . as DC (Between Dan's stable influence and Bo's helping hand , the D would be killer !
The other positions , I would trust the above to fill in the blanks and a few good ones have already been mentioned .
Would love to see you in some capacity on this team of coaches . For your experience in the game of football , and the game of life . Who better to tell young men where to and NOT to turn to in a time of crisis and pain !
I , like yourself had been headed down a road of self destruction and would have succeeded , but for the love of a wife and friends !
Just take a day at a time , and soon the days become years ! (18 for me ) I am prouder of what you have done facing this crisis than your success on the field . That's button pooping proud !
Huz
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Huz, thanks for those kind words. That staff you put together would be great, I just don't know if it will happen. I think Turner wants to stay a head coach, if he doesn't get this job I imagine he will stay at Buffalo, try and win 10 games and then he can write his own ticket. Dan Mac. is a hell of a coach especially if Turner gets the job, he's a great D-Line coach as well as a coordinator. Another name for Turner if he gets the job would be Ed Oregon, the old Ole Miss coach, he came from USC and he can coach a defense(also a d-line coach). JP
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Jason,
Thanks for all that you have done for this program and the passion you still have. I grew up watching your teams and watched how You, Grant, and others played with such passion and intensity. Man I wish you guys would be in the program and help coach these new Generation Y players about the drive and desire it takes to be a Husker. I would love to see Monte Kiffin comeback and bring his defensive mind to the Huskers.
Thanks again, Tucker GBR
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Thanks Tucker. Monte Kiffin is a great coach but I think TO is looking for a guy who can sit in control for the next 12 to 15 years, at least. Monte is 67 years old and I don't know how much longer he is going to go at it. The big difference between college and the NFL is that there is no recruiting in the NFL. All of that traveling to see these kids can be difficult on the body. You might say, "let the assistants do that stuff", well I can tell you from experience that when your 17 years old it makes a big difference as to whether the Head Coach is in your living room or if it is an assistant. JP
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I REALLY HOPE Paul Johnson get a look during Dr Tom's search this week !
( http://navysports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/johnson_paul00.html )
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Jim, I think he will. I've heard he will interview with TO after his game this weekend with Army. I have a feeling the Dr. will like Johnson. JP
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It could be a safe bet it's bo pelini- he has supposed to have said he would bring some of our past coaches back and the ones being talked about would add a great presence. it would be even better if he could keep watson, he is highly under-rated. sanders would be a great DC. Isn't it plausable they don't want to announce pelini until after the championship game on saturday? Heard something about gill as AD. that would be great also -he could still recruit like osborne is doing now- talk about having your cake and eating it too if this was true!
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I hadn't even considered Turner Gill for AD. As young as he is, I wonder if he'd be happy away from the sidelines.I guess a coaching AD is plausable. Everyone assumes Tom's trips are based on seeking a head coach but he might bring home a new AD as well. GBR
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I hadn't even considered Turner Gill for AD. As young as he is, I wonder if he'd be happy away from the sidelines.I guess a coaching AD is plausible. Everyone assumes Tom's trips are based on seeking a head coach but he might bring home a new AD as well. GBR
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I guess one never knows what could happen but I have a pretty good feeling Turner wants to stay on the sidelines for a while.
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Barney, I've heard some rumblings about waiting to announce Bo after the SEC Championship game as well. The only reason I would find that to be not true is that I can't see TO continuing to interview more candidates if he has already made up his mind. I heard he may be interviewing Paul Johnson after his game this weekend. TO said there should be a decision by mid-week of next week, if it was definitely Bo I would think it would be over the weekend or the beginning of next week. Who knows, all this speculation and there is only one man who knows and he's not saying anything. JP
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I've been a Cornhusker fan for as long as I can remember, which goes back to the Kennedy Administration. Few years have had fewer bright spots than '07.
I know Bo Pelini has never been a Head Coach. I know Turner Gill has never been a head coach at the BCS level. But at one time, neither had Tom Osborne. To be perfectly honest, in my view, the choice between Gill and Pelini is too close to call. Thank goodness Dr. Tom is there. I will not be disappointed if either man is chosen. I don't think anyone can beat Turner at in-state recruiting, but I don't think anyone can beat Pelini as a blood-and-fire motivator. Nebraska needs both. Both men are reputed to be fantastic human beings, replete with honor and integrity. Both would work well with Dr. Tom and his successor, if any. Both guys have circumstantial issues. Pelini's defense, once in a great while, gets ripped for a ton of yards, and Gill's team is only 5-7.
I don't object to Jim Grobe as a coach; he's been great at WF. My only objection is cost. Like Callahan, he's already signed a multi-year contract extension, and so will run up the Athletic Department another few million bucks. Sooner or later, economics are going to have to play a part in this. Gill's salary at Buffalo is so pathetic that even if NU had to buy it out, it's still less than 1 year of Bill Callahan.
Hire Gill. Hire Pelini. Flip a coin; whichever one Dr. Tom hires, I hope it's for the RIGHT reasons, and not because some racially-motivated special interest group applied pressure.
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Jeff,
You're right, both of these guys bring a lot to the table and I think either one of them would be a good choice. In Coach Osborne's introductory speech for athletic director he mentioned 2 parts of the program that need to be fixed. One would be the walk-on program (in-state recruiting), which Turner would be the guy to fix that and the other thing TO mentioned was the intensity and physicalness that our team plays with, Bo would be the guy o fix that. Which one is most important or needs to be fixed first? As far as Jim Grobe, I think he's a great coach and think he would be a great fit. He develops these young men, he's a coach and he will make the talent we have on this team shine through. He demands a lot out of his players, he believes in a blue collar mentality. I don't think the money is an issue, TO knew Grobe was locked into a long term contract before he contacted him. Just look at that, that's how highly Coach Osborne thinks of Jim Grobe, he knows he just signed a ten year extension yet he still wants to interview him. People need to look long and hard at Jim Grobe, there's a lot of reasons why Coach Osborne likes this guy so much. Coach Osborne isn't going to hire Turner because the color of his skin, if Turner gets the job it's because TO thinks he's the best man for the job. JP
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55, great blogs! enjoy reading them very much! Thanks for the 50 cents 10 or so years ago to call a cab at 1:30am. Never did get to say thanks! Anyway - coaching - curious as to why nobody mentions Marvin Sanders - Same Defensive philosophy as Pelini, great recruiter, confident, former Husker, young, will bring the Spread offense. Seems like he may be a good fit. He doesn't seem to get mentioned..
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received this from a friend now exiled to Texas, too good to not post
The gospel, according to a Nebraska fan : And it came to pass in the land of Lincoln, in the kingdom of Husker Nation, that a man named Pederson arose to rule the realm of Athletics. For he was of the Kingdom, from the city of North Platte, and was a follower of the Huskers of Corn.
But he was not a wise man, forsaking the ways of the Husker Nation, sending the leader Solich into the wilderness, and turning away the warriors of old who wore the tunics of black into battle in ages past, even removing their portraits and pictures.
And in the place of Solich, he selected from the land of La-La a strange man, once known as leading a failed army known as Raiders to defeat after defeat in the grand Coliseum of the Land of Oaks, a city by the bay of San Francisco, a wicked city of Sodomites and practitioners of perversion.
And did this man, known as Callahan, become the general of the Husker armies, forsaking all traditions held dear to the hearts of the citizens.
And a strange plan known as the West Coast Offense was forced upon the armies, and the proven tactics of old were called evil and sinful by Callahan. And complex and confusing were the plans in the Offense, and failure was the result.
And the Husker armies fell apart on the fields of battle, and adversaries from the Land of Troy, the hated Sooners, the powerful Orange Cowboys from the land of Still Water, yea even the despised Purple Cats from the wasteland of Kansas, did achieve victory after victory over the once-mighty Husker armies, and the wearers of the Tunics of Black.
And in the fourth year of the reign of Callahan, did the Husker armies struggle against warriors from a land where canning jars were made. And lo, the armies of Troy, the Tiger tribe from Columbia, yea, even the Orange Cowboys, did soundly defeat the Husker armies.
And it came to pass during the battle with the Orange Cowboys, in the presence of St. Thomas of Osborne and his brave soldiers of yore, that the members of Husker Nation did turn their backs upon the slaughter of the weakened armies of Callahan.
And a hue and cry arose throughout the land, in cyberspace, and on the program ESPN, for the removal of the failed general Callahan and his aides, and his master Pederson the Jerk.
And the Chancellor heard their cries, and dispatched Pederson into exile.
And St. Thomas was summoned by the Chancellor, and was given the power to rule in the department of Athletics.
And o, did Callahan wail and gnash his teeth, telling one and all of the fine works he had done. And his lies fell on deaf ears.
And there was great joy in Husker Nation as St. Thomas restored the traditions of old, welcoming with open arms the warriors of old known to the Nation.
But there was a reminder from St. Thomas that no remedies would be quick in coming, and that time shall pass before the great Husker armies are strong and feared once
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(continued from last post )
again be worn by the fierce defenders of the field.
Yea, verily, I say unto you this may take 40 years of wandering around in the desert before the people are freed.
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Great post.
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JP, great blog - enjoy it much. Question... Curious if you are suprised that Marvin Sanders doesn't get mentioned as a candidate. May be a little young, but he and Pelini are basically the same from a defensive approach (Monte Kiffin like), he is a former husker, seems to be confident, good recruiter, will bring the spread offense. I thought his name may at least surface to obtain an interview. If Pelini is the coach, Sanders will most likely be the DC. I am not so sure I wouldn't simply take Sanders as the HC....Husker Bred, good recruiter, relates well to kids, young guy, spread offense.... seems like he deserves a look. Thoughts?
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It's always a big mystery to me how some coaches names get brought up in the mix for new jobs and how some names never do. How does Bo Pelini's name get thrown in to the mix but Bud Foster or Will Muschamp's doesn't. In this case I truly believe the fans have had a huge impact into who TO and the search firm have interviewed. With all the talk radio and the craze of the chat rooms and message boards on the internet, without a doubt the fans have had an effect. I don't know if either Turner or Bo even get interviewed if it wasn't the day and age of the internet. They are fan favorite's. Marvin Sanders is a guy who mostly likely will end up in Lincoln if either Bo or Turner get the nod. He will be a head coach someday, just not now. He has a great mind and is a terrific assistant. JP
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JP,
One of my clients works in the Ohio State athletic department. He told me that a lady he works with is a family friend of the kicker at Buffalo. I guess they had a team meeting yesterday and Turner told the team he did interview with Nebraska at an undisclosed location and he has also interviewed for 2 other positions but did not mention what those other positions were. Do you think one of those "positions" is OC here? Do you think schools are going after him now that his name has been brought up at Nebraska?
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I heard on college gameday that he is also being considered for hc at washington state.
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Here's something to consider. I'm the only person saying this (just say that barney heard this), and I'm not sure why. I don't think Turner was interviewed for the HC position. I think he was interviewed for AD. Why else bring Pearlman to Atlanta? Pearlman said when he fired SP that he was not in the business of hiring or firing coaches - that was the job of the AD. And don't say that Turner isn't interested. He and Osborne talk all the time, Dr. Tom would know if he was interested in the AD job. As far as coach goes, I think its between Bo and Grobe ATM. I think we talk to Johnson at some point (if we have not already). But if you read into what Dr. Tom said, I think he is indeed leaning towards Bo. He said:
"There are two schools of thought. One is that if you have players who played at Nebraska or were at Nebraska at one time or another, they do understand the culture. They understand where North Platte is and where Oshkosh is. They know the importance of football to young people in this state. They know what walk-ons meant to programs in the past.
"And then on the other hand, an experienced coach with a solidified staff can come in here and sometimes save themselves a lot of time and grief simply because they all have a common terminology. They know each other. Their systems are all well in place and they don't have to spend several months trying to figure out what each one is doing. So it's kind of a trade off. But I guess it'd be nice to at least have a couple people with Nebraska ties, because they understand the state and they understand the culture."
I think that sounds an awful lot like he comparing the staff you might get with Bo vs Grobe (or Johnson). The fact that Bo won't be available until after Sat. just made it easier on Dr. Tom and his search, because he gets some time to mull it over. I really think Johnson only gets into the mix if he says he would pull some NU guys into his staff.
Finally, I believe its going to be Bo. I think he comes even if offered more $$$ at LSU (I don't think they offer him at all). I believe Bo wants to be here and he wants to bring in a staff that is Nebraska "friendly".
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From a "reliable source" Bo and Mary Pat loved living in Nebraska and loved the fans. They never even sold their house.
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Jason,
I have to tell you; I'm very impressed with your articles and knowledge. Good to see Sara has pitched in to help you type. I think it would be incredible to have both you and Christian coach the Husker defense. As you know it's 90% heart and 10% mental. My only concern would be the fact that you could only take the job if Stroker (Doak) comes back. They would need a full time trainer tending to all the players you and Christian would end up beating up every day in practice.
I love you,
Snaggle
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Hey 55,
Love listening to you on The Spread. We have it on where we work every afternoon. I'm 50/50 on the Pelini/Gill choice. If Turner ends up here, it would be fitting if Bo got the LSU head coach assuming Miles goes to Michigan. If Bo comes to Lincoln, then Gill's destiny is to continue to improve the Buffalo program and make his mark, as he already has, in the MAC.
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55,
Pellini or Gill. Can't lose either way. Although I'm afraid Pellini might leave for another job. I don't think Turner would.
I know it sounds crazy, but I think Pelini could take talent and turn around team next year.
My crazy heart wants Turner.
Turner would understand Nebraska best.
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I think it's better than even money it's pelini. TO said he was going to interview 4 or 5 coaches. he has done 3 that we know. he is actually out recruiting so the odds are he isn't using that as a smoke screen to talk to other coaches. he wanted the guy to use some past NE assistants. Pelini said he would and likes several of them.I have said it makes sense to keep Watson and probably Rudolfh and Gilmore. He took Watson with him recruiting! My guess is still pelini. I have a great source within a sports dept. at a Big NE. newspaper who says one of their writers talks to pelini a couple of times a day by phone. They think pelini too. The announcement could be Sunday or Monday. Even if it turns out to be Gill thats good. I still wonder if Gill won't be AD. More security and still good money.He would be a great way to bring a minority presence to a top jobat NEU and is an excellant person all around.
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Barney, I think Turner as AD would be great for the program. He understands Nebraska and he definitely knows the characteristics of the program that need to be upheld. TO doesn't want to remain in that position forever and Turner would be someone great that he can groom for the job. My only question is,"Does Turner want to give up coaching right when he's getting hot"? JP
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Nice Barney. I like it.
I think Turner could recruit very well at Nebraska. Real Well.
Pellini has to wait until after SEC championship game, but is he stringing us out? Does he want the LSU job more than NU if Miles goes to Michigan?
Tom taking care of the house till a decision is made is hopefully gonna hold everything tight. Do you think TO may think this may drag out until Miles makes a decision. In that case I, not making a stupid move, give the job to Turner?
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Bo isn't waiting for the LSU job, he wants to be at Nebraska. The announcement is probably being delayed till after the game so that his hiring doesn't overshadow the game. JP
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55,
Where does Turner fit in, in all this then? He wouldn't want to leave Buffalo for O-Coordinator, Ast. head coach??
Ast. AD??
It will be tough to make this work in my mind, Pelini (HC) and keep Gill.
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55,
Go Mizzou, like to see them win tonight. Have that season we've had what seems like so long ago.
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Personally I don't see Turner leaving Buffalo unless it is for a head coaching job somewhere. He has done the unthinkable at Buffalo(win) and I don't think he's ready to take off the headset. But, when Coach Osborne is asking you to do something, he always has a way of making it sound like the best idea in the world. JP
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Sounds like Grobe is out, just window dressing anyway and I still think its pelini. Cassiday is now out as ass. AD - will Gill come in as ass.Ad now and take over in the spring as the new and permanentAD with Bo as HC? This is getting to be a blast!
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Looks like Grobe was never that serious. If it's Bo I am excited, he is what the Huskers need right NOW! Fix that Blackshirt Defense and get the kids to play with some emotion. Turner as AD, I'm not sure. I think Turner would like to see how far he can take it on the field but you never know, especially when TO is sitting across from you telling you why he thinks something can be a great opportunity. JP
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All aboard the JP express. No more Tim Cassidy. Yahoo! The dude was rude & crude to us common people. JP for director of football operations. Yahoo. That'll do just fine. Once in the family - always in the family. WE WANT JP!
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Jan, your funny! Although I would fill any role that Coach Osborne needed me for, I see myself more as a on-field type guy. Coaching up some of the youth that comes through those great walls of Memorial Stadium. JP
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Jason,
I hope your seriously considered for a position man. We need people like you in the program. If it's really Bo I think the two of you would be great together. I'm drooling in my coffee over the idea! Let's end this chapter in husker history and start a new one.
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Darin, It's funny you say that because a bunch of people that know Bo have approached me and said the same thing. One thing for sure, there wouldn't be a lack of intensity or passion. JP
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You ARE an "onfield guy" Jason... It seems Pelini is the choice; hoping u will let him know you want to be a part of the renewal. I just hope there is a spot for Turner, too!
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Julie, the staff of assistant coaches that are put together is probably more important than the head coach himself. These are the guys that work with the kids on a daily basis. The great teams of the '90's were all a direct reflection of the great assistant coaches we had, hopefully we can put together another great staff. JP
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55,
Both papers (Omaha, Linc.) saying it's Bo. Espn says it's Bo.
Looks like it's Bo. GO BIG RED!!!!!!!!
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Come on guys. It's not real hard to figure out what is going on here. NU is going to get as much mileage and pub. out of this hire as they can. The whole country can watch the SEC Title game. Who would release that sort of information? It apparently wasn't Bo's people, right? And it apparently wasn't T.O.'s administration, right? Did it ever occur to anyone that NU would have the Atlanta based search firm leak this information to a select few major sports media outlets and let the thing spread like wild fire? Free mileage, and Splash on national t.v. Something like this is not accidental, it's calculated, and it's smart.
that's my two cents
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Well, I seriously hope that SOMEONE gives 'monster-man' JP a look on the NU side of coaching. This kid was what nightmares were made of for SEVERAL years in the big 12 and all opponents of Nebraska. For what's it worth, I watched that youtube piece on Husker defense from past years and chills went up then down my spine. If you ain't seen it, go to huskerboard, find the football forum and find 'This will get you fired up' and watch it. There is a REASON why Mr. Peter is featured in several portions of it. MY LORD! Go Big Red!!!
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Here is the utube link to the Nebraska Blackshirts video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xoCym8_2mc
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Randy, I will go check out the video. I have to admit whenever I see those videos of the past Blackshirt defenses I get some chills. Mean and Nasty! JP
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