Shudda known after the Navy game...

[Water Pony]

Three things:

I don't get to many games, but the Navy game was one that I still remember (painfully). My over riding memory was that Phil was out coached and Johnson is the real deal. I like Phil and endorse his character based approach. Unfortunately, as Head Coach it is a "bridge too far"

As for the "Model", it is a broken record after twenty years, but this isn't brain surgery or a perpetual excuse. Let's make the changes, at season's end. Steve Orsini will make the moves necessary.

Lastly, no incremental adjustments. BB has set a good course and our non-revenue sports are more than competitive (except for the Perkins Natatorium).

However, FB defines sports in Texas and SMU must be a player. We need it, CUSA needs it, and the students need it (their apathy can only be cured with success). Having SMU as a power in the conference will lift all boats. We are a bit unique in that regard.

[Charleston Pony]

Johnson is a terrific coach and a guy who has adjusted his "system" to the athletes he has. He built a national championship program at Georgia Southern (they've gone steadily downhill since he left) and has obviously done a good job at Navy.

I, too, was at that Bennett era opener against Navy and it was a very depressing beginning to Phil's tenure here.

We could do a lot worse than a guy like Johnson.

[Water Pony]

For the record, I am not endorsing Johnson for the position. He is perfect for Navy, who needs someone who can excellent with the resources available. Watch them beat Notre Dame this year.

However, SMU needs first and foremost is someone who can create excitement, has a national reputation, can recruit like crazy and persuade the alums to open their checkbooks and the students to nail their rears to the stadium seats. Phil made a run at the fraternities his first year, but there didn't appear to be been any follow-up.