No speculation, just perspective.

[PonyPatrol]

Hey there, new poster, but longtime reader of the board.

Just wanted to chime in on some of the recent feedback to potential coaching candidates to help put this hire into perspective for better or worse...

I had long speculated that Chan Gailey would be a serious candidate (just speculation, no "sources") as his numerous Orsini ties (Cowboys, GT) seem like a logical match. What amuses me is so many of you find this to be a reprehensible decision - not a "WOW" hire, a "joke" in Dallas, etc....While you may view the guy is a nonpersonable retread, who lead the Cowboys to a "disastorous" 18-14 mark in two years, many around the league remember it quite differently, i.e. a guy who never got a true shot from a fickle owner, overestimating the abilities of his aging stars.

Interesting that a couple years later he landed a legitimate top tier BCS job, and would still be a respected coach there (akin to your beloved Tommy Bowden in winning %) if he had a couple wins over UGA. Furthermore, speculation was that he might have left GT last year when the Steeler and Dolphins HEAD COACHING jobs opened up. Did you think he imagined one year later he may end up at 1-11 SMU, drawing 14,000 fans/game? What the hell are some of you asking for?

I agree Terry Bowden, Slick Rick Neuheisal or even Fran would also be terrific hires from a "name" perspective. On the other hand, hot coordinators like Christenson or Brent Venables are NOT Phil Bennett, just because they are coordinators. I'm sick of hearing "we've gone down that path", when this decision is automonous from previous hires. It has been mentioned ad nauseam why Bennett was not a good hire (JUCO rep, etc.), but losing football programs would blanket his faults over all potential candidates with similar backgrounds. Non BCS programs are stepping stones for the best coordinators, who are often the hottest future coaches (Stoops, Mangino). Bennett's stock was never what some of these coordinators' is currently.

Obviously, we have no idea what is actually transpiring with Orsini, but this can still be a terrific hire if it is not Terry Bowden. Most of the names mentioned are serious BCS job contenders and should not detour the early season enthusiasm over the novelty of a new hire. Although, an 0-2 start under any coach will drive down attendance (see "Pony Up"). Winning is paramount, just ask big name Doherty how those crowds are at Moody this season.This team is not at a 1-11 talent level, and most of these candidates should not have a problem redirecting the ship and providing a solid base for the future. That is all we can ask for and it would be absolute coup if we got more.