Who do you want as SMU's next head coach?

[BRStang]

Looking back on our coaching hires over the years, I guess my biggest takeaway (if anything) is that we really, really should look to someone (1) who likes to and is good at recruiting; and (2) has Texas connections. Of the 18 or so coaching candidates that I have looked at in this single evening, I guess right now my focus would be on:

1. Les Miles: Former National Championship Head coach, has recruited Texas (and Southeast) well and is a proven recruiter, and instant splash and publicity. Would be a huge get IMHO, especially given the current slate of candidates. Could even be a stop gap. We'd be mentioned on ESPN regularly.

2. Blake Anderson (Arky State): Somewhat of a proven winner HC, good recruiter and has Texas ties. Fits the bill.

3. Frank Wilson (UTSA): HC with demonstrated, although limited, success. Got the #1 recruiting class in C-USA last year (69th overall- not too shabby for friggin UTSA), some developing Texas ties. Also has ties to LA.

Whatever we do, don't overlook the importance of Texas connections, influence and respect!

Edit: I did not list Mack Brown, because he is a washed up has-been and I don't like him anyway; nor Sumlin or Kiffin b/c I don't think they are candidates for this job.

[SMUer]

I wanted Herm Edwards

[gostangs]

Frank Wilson - please no.

[Pony81]

The problem with Les Miles is he will be taking a step down from LSU to SMU.... he just couldn’t adjust to the difference in game day atmosphere, program resources etc.
now Blake Anderson..... he would be a good hire. Step up to the AAC- cradle of P5 coaches.

[BRStang]

Les Miles reportedly wants a job coaching again. I think he would jump if SMU gave him the opportunity.

Another possibility could be Doug Meacham (former TCU OC and current Kansas OC).

[Pony81]

I have to believe that Rick Hart has been in contact with the agents of his leading prospects for the last few weeks to gauge interest and understand salary needs, coaching staff etc.. and selling these guys to the big donors ( Ford, Hunt ).
Our cupboard is no longer bare .... the right coach can keep this ball rolling....

[ozfan]

Troy Brown HC at Troy and his contract must includes his present defensive coord.

[BRStang]

Another candidate: Tim Beck, current OC at Texas and former Texas HS coach. Was OC at Ohio State before joining Herman at UT.

[sbsmith]

The problem with Les Miles is he will be taking a step down from LSU to SMU.... he just couldn’t adjust to the difference in game day atmosphere, program resources etc.

Sounds like Tuberville at Cincy.

[sbsmith]

Another candidate: Tim Beck, current OC at Texas and former Texas HS coach. Was OC at Ohio State before joining Herman at UT.

The one thing UT, Ohio State and Nebraska fans all agree on is that they hate Tim Beck.

[BRStang]

Troy Brown HC at Troy and his contract must includes his present defensive coord.

I think you mean Neal Brown. I think he could be a good candidate for us, but I would be concerned about the lack of Texas ties/experience. IMHO we need someone who can step in to the relationships already in place with Texas HS coaches to not miss out on a year of recruiting.

[ozfan]

Troy Brown HC at Troy and his contract must includes his present defensive coord.

I think you mean Neal Brown. I think he could be a good candidate for us, but I would be concerned about the lack of Texas ties/experience. IMHO we need someone who can step in to the relationships already in place with Texas HS coaches to not miss out on a year of recruiting.

Correct I meant Neal Brown (had Troy on my mind) He was o. coord. at Texas Tech 2008-2010 so can recruit here plus he can go out of state and get us some interior defensive linemen.

[BRStang]

Another candidate: Tim Beck, current OC at Texas and former Texas HS coach. Was OC at Ohio State before joining Herman at UT.

The one thing UT, Ohio State and Nebraska fans all agree on is that they hate Tim Beck.

Not the absolute highest on my list just from my personal observations watching and listening to him, but he was a former Broyles Award nominee and good recruiter and has a very fun offensive philosophy.

[Stallion]

Need someone who runs a power spread with emphasis on strong running game-no "toy" offenses like Run N Dud or Air Raid. I bet Brown runs the Air Raid due to his Texas Tech background.. That's one + factor in favor of Blake Anderson

[smupony]

Looking back on our coaching hires over the years, I guess my biggest takeaway (if anything) is that we really, really should look to someone (1) who likes to and is good at recruiting; and (2) has Texas connections. Of the 18 or so coaching candidates that I have looked at in this single evening, I guess right now my focus would be on:

1. Les Miles: Former National Championship Head coach, has recruited Texas (and Southeast) well and is a proven recruiter, and instant splash and publicity. Would be a huge get IMHO, especially given the current slate of candidates. Could even be a stop gap. We'd be mentioned on ESPN regularly.

2. Blake Anderson (Arky State): Somewhat of a proven winner HC, good recruiter and has Texas ties. Fits the bill.

3. Frank Wilson (UTSA): HC with demonstrated, although limited, success. Got the #1 recruiting class in C-USA last year (69th overall- not too shabby for friggin UTSA), some developing Texas ties. Also has ties to LA.

Whatever we do, don't overlook the importance of Texas connections, influence and respect!

Edit: I did not list Mack Brown, because he is a washed up has-been and I don't like him anyway; nor Sumlin or Kiffin b/c I don't think they are candidates for this job.

How does Todd Graham not fit yours and or really anyone's requirements? Texas born recruiter as well as Texas connected. Has had some pretty impressive classes with multiple 4 star recruits. Runs an offense that will suit our current roster. Was known for changing a dismal culture at ASU. Has won big games.

Negatives: Has been known to jump ship. Who cares? If he make us better, he can leave (see Chad). The days of a coach staying for their career is sadly gone. Hasn't really competed for the Pac12 in recent years. I can't really speak to that. I don't pay enough attention to their conference if someone wants to fill me in. First three years, better than we have had at SMU since the death penalty. The last three years, on par with the season we just had, but against much better teams.

I'm no expert, and don't claim to be one, but I need someone to breakdown the reasons why we wouldn't want this guy.

Oh, and please don't tell me because he will leave at the first chance he gets. That is the way of the NCAA head football coach. Leaving means he did something.