First off, I'm a MSU alum.

Next off, I'm not claiming to have any inside connections or anything, but even I know that generally speaking the alumni never liked the JLS hiring.

Add to that the fact that he really hasn't endeared himself to the fan base at the grass roots level (speaking engagements, charity events, alumni association functions, etc.) to the extent that I think a head football coach at a school like MSU needs to.

Fast forward a bit and ask yourself how much better off the program is on the field than it was when he got here. Not much of a difference at all IMO.

So rather than discussing the merits of him being fired, which I think he will be, I'd like to focus on potential replacements.

Do they go big name? Young "up and comer"? Somebody with MSU roots?

All valid questions.

Names?

I have no idea, I'd just be pulling them out of a hat.

Brian Kelly? Lou Holtz? Jim Harbaugh? (wouldn't that be a coup?) Pat Hill?

I'll hang up and listen to those of you that follow this stuff more than I do.

I guess I would be remiss by not mentioning Mooch.

In fact, that could be a slam dunk.

Nobody?

Damn, I thought I had hit at least a few hot buttons there.

What about Ty Willingham?

At one time I would have thought leaving Washington for MSU would be a no brainer, a step up. Now? I'm not so sure.

He is a Sparty Alum, however.

How about this guy?

http://media.scout.com/Media/NHL/61569_BillCowher-.JPG

He should be free after the season.

Low blow.



But well played.

I think Mooch will be the leading canidate, but early in the season (which may have changed as time passed) Barry Alavarez said in several interviews he made a mistake he didn't realize was a mistake until the season started he still wants to coach. While I think it is unlikley that Barry coaches this quick again he would be a guy to call since he is familar with the area, recruiting, pressure and style of the Big Ten.

To me the guy to go after is Butch Davis, he is a great recruiter knows what it takes build winners and can sell guys on his ability to get them to the NFL. Butch rebuilt Miami and should have won the championship Coker did in his absence. However our biggest competition for Davis may end up being Miami if they fire Coker.

Here's my question with the whole thing: will the move improve the team?

I ask that because while John L can't coach that well, he has put in a solid offensive system and he's a pretty good recruiter.
So let's say Mooch comes in with the WCO. Now that all State fans have puked, can you imagine that? Would you lose the Nichol commitment? Others? But maybe you would gain some commits. It seems that NFL coaches going to the NCAA get some serious love from commits. Al Groh, Weis, Callahan, obviously Carroll, are all examples of NFL coaches that got big love in the NCAA.
But will State be able to get an NFL guy there? Consider the other possible openings and ask yourself, why would they take the State job? Why subject yourself to competition every year from 3 of the greatest programs in history, while battling them for recruits?
So I sit here not entirely convinced that their next coach can really do better.

That being said, I vote John Cooper!

Jethro, a great coach can win anywhere. You come in, make changes, find "some" success and then get recruits to buy in. I don't even have to list examples, they are everywhere.

When John L. was hired I was in Jethro's basement and I was extremely pissed. They needed a discipline guy and John L's Louisville team led the country in penalties. I was wrong about John L. in many ways though. He did clean up the program big time. He also brought the most exciting offense I could have dreamed of. But, his faults kept him from success. I don't think his reign is officially over. A 8-4 season is still very possible if he can somehow keep the guys excited. I wouldn't count on it, but if you look at the schedule following the OSU game, they are all very winnable. Actually they "should" win every one of them going into PSU. But, we know they blow everything. I'm just saying it's possible.

But, if he gets fired, I have to return to my dream of 4 years ago when I thought about how great it would be to have Mooch. The only thing that has changed that dream is his offense. He is a big name, NFL experience and success, and I imagine he could recruit very well. He reminds me of Izzo alot. Izzo and Mooch teaming up at MSU would be a combination that I would be very proud of. I don't want the WCO though! Nobody does and I'm not ready to let go of the MSU offense that I love to watch. With that being said, this MSU job would be Mooch's to lose.

Butch Davis would be another very exciting hire. I would love to see him come to State and turn things around. He's got the name and he's got the respect factor. That would be another solid hire.

I wouldn't want Ty. If you can't win at Notre Dame, you can't win anywhere. ND has the tradition, the easy sell for recruits, if you can't use that then you aren't the man for the job.

I don't want a no name. John L. was a no name for me. I know the program isn't what it used to be in the 60's when State was a national powerhouse and its not even close to what it was in the late 80's, early 90's when we won back to back BT titles. However, it is huge Big Ten school whose fans are starving for a winner. Anybody that comes in and is able to turn things around would become a legend in the minds of Spartan fans, much like Izzo has become.

So I guess my vote would be Mooch or Davis.

I want someone who is at least fairly proven, so here is who's on my list:

Butch Davis - umm, duh.
Mooch - He needs to have a different offense, but could probably bring in a good DC at a minimum, NO WCO.
Todd Grantham - DC Browns - MSU guy, recruited and coached D under Saban, a DC in the NFL. Would be a long term option.
Saban - Rumors(I'm assuming from idiots, but not sure) have him being fired and looking to return to MSU. Lots of burned bridges, but he would have credibility, a take charge attitude, a defense, and could recruit.
Josh McDaniels - Some questions still, IMO, but a REALLY young OC for the Pats, major credibility from that, tough to know who all would be on the staff, but a high potential guy, MSU guy too.
Gene Chizik - probably the hottest name on any coaching list right now. Has created 3 great defenses(UCF, Auburn, Texas), and has been a large part of multiple undefeated teams recently, could be out of MSU's league though.
Bo Pellini - LSU's DC, very good DC, something that wouldn't hurt for us.
Ty Willingham - He is good at Washington, has discipline on his teams, and always at least competent teams. MSU connections, and would at a minimum make MSU a 7-5 every year team, which would allow MSU to move up with the next pickup after him, just due to stability.

Paul Johnson - probably not the guy for us, he seems like he is PERFECT for a service acadamy, other places, I'm not so sure.
The guy from TCU, at least worth a look.

Dream - Chizik or Davis.
Reasonable wants - Mooch/Grantham/Willingham

I wish John L. would be fired right now. I'm sick of his penalty plagued football. I'm sick of his happy go lucky attitude when his team is playing ridiculous. I do not remember him ever getting on a player for making a mistake. State started this game today with a great opportunity, fumble, great screen, and they make 3 straight mistakes. They show him on the sideline and he's not saying a word.

I'm tired of this guy. Fire him NOW.

A la the sign seen above the tunnel at The Big House during the 49-3 thrashing of the Spartans in 2002 that read "Keep Bobby", I say "Keep John L."

[smilie=rofl.gif] http://www.centralohio.com/ohiostate/stories/20021105/football/307073-112758.jpg [smilie=lmao.gif] http://media.graytvinc.com/images/John-L.-Smith.gif [smilie=totlach.gif]

Seriously, how much time do I have left to enjoy this?

Seriously, how much time do I have left to enjoy this?

Hopefully less time than we've had to enjoy Tommy Turtleneck.
http://sportsmed.starwave.com/media/ncb/2002/0715/photo/s_amaker_ht.jpg
If John L. is the riddler (I don't disagree), than Tommy is the clown! hahaha How would you like this clown leading your program? hahahaa
http://www-personal.umich.edu/~jeda/Images/TommyAmaker.JPG

Yeah, but John L. has never beaten Michigan.

Yeah, but John L. has never beaten Michigan.

John L. doesn't play Michigan twice a year.

Hopefully less time than we've had to enjoy Tommy Turtleneck.
http://sportsmed.starwave.com/media/ncb/2002/0715/photo/s_amaker_ht.jpg
If John L. is the riddler (I don't disagree), than Tommy is the clown! hahaha How would you like this clown leading your program? hahahaa
http://www-personal.umich.edu/~jeda/Images/TommyAmaker.JPG

Always have to come back to basketball. This is a JLS/MSU Football thread, right? Now that you bring up Tommy, he may not be Coach K, but he can recruit, getting McDonald's All-American Horton, D Sims, Legion, Manny Harris and possibly Delvon Roe.

Michigan basketball is by no means a powerhouse, but we're not the laughing stock of college basketball like Michigan State is in college football.

http://www.msu.edu/%7Ehuizing7/slapjls.gif
You can't even deny that.

[smilie=dance.gif]1,000 posts[smilie=dance.gif]

I agree with Mood. I thought this was a football thread???

Always have to come back to basketball. This is a JLS/MSU Football thread, right? Now that you bring up Tommy, he may not be Coach K, but he can recruit, getting McDonald's All-American Horton, D Sims, Legion, Manny Harris and possibly Delvon Roe.

Michigan basketball is by no means a powerhouse, but we're not the laughing stock of college basketball like Michigan State is in college football.
You can't even deny that.

You've posted in this thread several times and none of your posts had any sort of discussion in them. They were just weak attempts to poke fun at MSU. Posting pics, etc. The type of stuff you'll see from middle schoolers on MLive. Therefore, I'm going to rip Michigan in the same way. If you would have actually discussed who would/should replace John L. like Jethro, you wouldn't have gotten Tommy Turtleneck jokes.

BTW in response, you don't think Michigan is a laughing stock in basketball?! Jim Rome has called Michigan out nationally repeatedly for being proud of their NIT achievements. Michigan hasn't been among the Top 66 teams in the NCAA in a decade. You don't think they are a laughing stock? Sad. I guess I shouldn't put too much weight on your opinion though. I should ask someone who is more than "sort of a fan."

That is all off topic, but if you want to go there, we'll go there.

If you look above, I didn't bring up bball. I just answered your question. You asked how long do you have to enjoy this. I said hopefully less time than we've had to enjoy Tommy Turtleneck.

Back on topic.

I've heard so many Nick Saban rumors lately with the Dolphins playing horrible. Everytime somebody suggests replacement, Saban is mentioned.

He was so close to taking MSU to the level he took LSU. MSU finished #5 his last season and brought in back to back #1 recruits in the country. I think if MSU hadn't turned down matching the LSU offer, the program would have been paralleled to the bball program. Maybe slightly less.

I don't see it happening, but man I wish MSU would offer a boat load of money this time around and at least make an attempt to bring him back. aaaah dreams are fun

He (Saban) or Butch Davis will probably end up at Miami.

I've even heard Barry Alvarez as a possibility at the U.

If you look above, I didn't bring up bball. I just answered your question. You asked how long do you have to enjoy this. I said hopefully less time than we've had to enjoy Tommy Turtleneck.

I'm not trying to be picky, but you did bring up basketball. If you mention a basketball coach and include his picture, you have effectively brought up the sport he represents.

Having said that, anyone complaining about crossing over in college sports from one to another in here is shady because it happens all the time. This forum is more about Michigan vs Michigan State than it is about anything else. Let's not try to hide that. It may get a little sick wading through it all the time, but we all know that's what it's about.

So true.

He was so close to taking MSU to the level he took LSU.

A National Championship?

If MSU ever wins a National Championship in football in my lifetime, "I'll poop on my living room floor and eat it.":wink:

I think if MSU hadn't turned down matching the LSU offer, the program would have been paralleled to the bball program. Maybe slightly less.


Cutting and posting PART of my quote isn't going to work. Read the last sentence. However, if Saban had stayed, claiming he might have brought a NC isn't out of the realm of possibility. He did finish #5 in his last season there and had #1 players coming in. It's not like he was far off.

If you could give me any coach in the country to take over MSU and try to build their program, it would be Saban. Man, I wish there was more of a chance.

BTW, the legendary Jason Hall told me once that I'd never see a Michigan State National Championship in my lifetime. Three years later Cleaves was cutting down the nets. Hope I can remind you of your words one day....I'll probably be old and gray.

I guess I was stunned by the boldness of the first sentence, and I didn't read the rest.

BTW, I always love a Jason Hall reference. What a legend...split the backs baby!

LMAO at Mood pulling the laughing stock of CFB card out...lmao...that is fucking great and sooo fucking true.

And I actually thought Muhme might discuss the topic and post some something with value. I might be waiting awhile.

Ahh..I think Chezik is a pipe dream and I think you guys know that...Ty is a pipe dream as well...


I think you need to focus on Pat Schurmer. Former Spartan, ties to the program, knows that the program is a mess and he has to compete with OSU, ND and Michigan for recruits but has the NFL cred to do so...

Tre, honestly stop being such a fucking bitch. You crying every damn post isnt fun anymore...Has the MSU program run you into the ground so damn much that you are resulting in just throwing up the white flag instead of fighting back? Ill take it easy from now on and just inject this board with QUALITY posts...hope you like what I provided above.

I haven't "cried" once. I called you out for posting garbage. I've simply pointed out the fact that your posts have went straight down hill. I was talking to Moodini as we were on here last night and he said the same thing. He also noticed that you went from posting discussion type material to simply posting jokes about State or jokes aimed at me. So I guess I'm not the only one who's noticed.

Sucks that you plan on continuing to return with quality posts now. I was hoping you'd have too much to drink and leave early (wink wink) LOL!!!!

Anybody have a problem with me putting a sticky on this thread now? I think this subject went from maybe to definately by the end of the first quarter today. The cowboy is gone!

I've decided. I want Mooch. Bring him in now. I want the Izzo/Mooch duo. I want a name in the program. He better come in and lay the hammer on the program. I want a mentally tough football team!

Anybody have a problem with me putting a sticky on this thread now? I think this subject went from maybe to definately by the end of the first quarter today. The cowboy is gone!

I've decided. I want Mooch. Bring him in now. I want the Izzo/Mooch duo. I want a name in the program. He better come in and lay the hammer on the program. I want a mentally tough football team!

I don't want to risk losing Izzo. Even if it might hurt the football program. I think that we can get candidates that could do just as good as Mooch could, without risking that Izzo tie, i.e. pissing on Mooch, pissing off Izzo.

I want Chizik or Grantham, maybe on Kelly/Pellini/McDaniels or whomever else.

Chizik and Grantham are my top 2 priorities.

38 unanswered. Unsticky? haha

Naw, my feelings are the same. But out of respect for the comeback I'll at least unsticky it for now. I'll let Johnny bask in the sun for one day. haha

I want MSU to finish strong, but I can't take this lack of coaching anymore. MSU leads the BT in penalties. What did Louisville do when JLS was there his last year? They led the nation in penalties. He obviously can not coach discipline. I can't stand first downs being brought back because of moronic penalties. Fire JLS please.

This is the second straight week I'm hoping they fire JLS at the half.

I think you want Mooch like the Lions did, but in the end he will disappoint the same as he did Lion fans.

Someone mentioned JL does not instill disipline....umm did you watch the Lions? Did you see him throw his players under the bus. He is the type of coach that needs veteran players, not new ones every year.

I would rule out Saban, Davis and Ty. Washington has a much better tradition of being a good football school than MSU and UW is the UM of their state. MSU would be a step down.

It would be a huge step down for Davis and I dont think Saban is in trouble this season. I think he gets one more year...I mean crap look how long they kept Wannestedt.

Davis I doubt ends back up at Miami, but I have heard of Alvarez maybe heading down there, but I am not really feeling that.

I think MSU should go for a solid no nonsense DC from an established program and see what he can do. A young guy who has passion. I would say Ron English, but if RE wants to coach at UM, I doubt he goes there.

I am betting they hire Mooch if he wants the job because Izzo would make sure he got the job if he really wanted to do it.

I think it would help recruiting the first year, but in the long run; it will be another bad move.

MSU has had great successul in the past 20 years with Perles and Saban. Perles was definitely a no nonsense guy and with all the off the field crap this year....I truly believe they need that.

I wish they would keep JL forever. He is always good for a laugh.

Don't get me wrong Art, I totally feel you on Mooch's discipline. However, I think they need a name in the program and I think Mooch might have more discipline success with college kids.

I don't know though. He's not my dream coach, but I think he might be able to turn things around.

No way Tre. Mooch cannot handle youngsters. Yeah he might be a name, but isnt that what the Lions did with Mooch. That worked out great.

In the end they need a young rah, rah coach with some success at coordinator. If I was MSU I would go after Pellini (I think that is the DC from LSU). Or the Cincinnati HC. He was DC under Tressel and Cincy while not great is much better since he has been HC especially on the D side. Plus he has some connections in Ohio, which is the best state for talent in the MW.

If Mooch is the next HC...I will be a very happy man.

You're are probably right. I always have a hard time accepting a guy that I'm not real familiar with though because I want something to be excited about immediately.

The more that I think about it, the #1 thing I want is a coach that will have discipline. If the next coach isn't a huge success, I don't want his fault to be in the discipline area. I enjoyed watching the Spartans under Saban. I wasn't pulling my hair out the whole time.

I don't know who the right man is (other than Saban), he just better do the job. Spartan fans are starving for a team and would fall in love with any coach that could field a team that we could be excited about.

As a fan, I think I could handle down years better if it was clear that a guy was making progress. It's the idea that coaches only last 3-4 years and the program is in the same boat that would kill me.

I think the other big thing you got to remember about Mooch is that every year he will be subject to rumors of heading back to the NFL.

Think in terms of MSU telling players why go to UM...they havent been to the big dance in years...come play for us. I can hear coaches telling recruits...is that guy going to be there or what is going on.

I just think they need a college coach and it doesnt have to be a big name guy.

Jethro, a great coach can win anywhere. You come in, make changes, find "some" success and then get recruits to buy in. I don't even have to list examples, they are everywhere.

When John L. was hired I was in Jethro's basement and I was extremely pissed. They needed a discipline guy and John L's Louisville team led the country in penalties. I was wrong about John L. in many ways though. He did clean up the program big time. He also brought the most exciting offense I could have dreamed of. But, his faults kept him from success. I don't think his reign is officially over. A 8-4 season is still very possible if he can somehow keep the guys excited. I wouldn't count on it, but if you look at the schedule following the OSU game, they are all very winnable. Actually they "should" win every one of them going into PSU. But, we know they blow everything. I'm just saying it's possible.

But, if he gets fired, I have to return to my dream of 4 years ago when I thought about how great it would be to have Mooch. The only thing that has changed that dream is his offense. He is a big name, NFL experience and success, and I imagine he could recruit very well. He reminds me of Izzo alot. Izzo and Mooch teaming up at MSU would be a combination that I would be very proud of. I don't want the WCO though! Nobody does and I'm not ready to let go of the MSU offense that I love to watch. With that being said, this MSU job would be Mooch's to lose.

Butch Davis would be another very exciting hire. I would love to see him come to State and turn things around. He's got the name and he's got the respect factor. That would be another solid hire.

I wouldn't want Ty. If you can't win at Notre Dame, you can't win anywhere. ND has the tradition, the easy sell for recruits, if you can't use that then you aren't the man for the job.

I don't want a no name. John L. was a no name for me. I know the program isn't what it used to be in the 60's when State was a national powerhouse and its not even close to what it was in the late 80's, early 90's when we won back to back BT titles. However, it is huge Big Ten school whose fans are starving for a winner. Anybody that comes in and is able to turn things around would become a legend in the minds of Spartan fans, much like Izzo has become.

So I guess my vote would be Mooch or Davis.

If that is true, then why during Michigan States run to #11 in the polls last year did you say something along the lines of "It was a great day when Michigan State hired John L. Smith, we are blessed."

Because we were #11 in the country. Hello McFly! Heeeello?! Times were good therefore it looked like a good hire.

Because we were #11 in the country. Hello McFly! Heeeello?! Times were good therefore it looked like a good hire.

Mmm hmmm. So initially you were pissed. Then you got on your hands and knees and praised him. Now you hate him again.

Interesting...

The DC from Georgia Tech is a guy I would look at, Tenuta.

I'm really anxious for this program to focus more on the defensive side of the ball.

Yeah good call SpartyNick. He will be on the short list for a lot of programs.

Remember Miami is coming free this season and a couple of other schools that much generate more interest than the MSU job.

MSU is all about football being 2nd tier in terms of the other instate school and even in its own sports program.

Mmm hmmm. So initially you were pissed. Then you got on your hands and knees and praised him. Now you hate him again.

Interesting...

Got on my hands and knees? Umm, no. Flip flopped? Sure did. I'll admit that.

Why so much focus on DrTre? Everybody else is talking about who to hire. Sounds like the obsessed posts of former FillyCheezeSteak. If I nailed that one after 2 posts by you, I don't know whether I'm really good or you are really pathetic/predictable.

Got on my hands and knees? Umm, no. Flip flopped? Sure did. I'll admit that.

Why so much focus on DrTre? Everybody else is talking about who to hire. Sounds like the obsessed posts of former FillyCheezeSteak. If I nailed that one after 2 posts by you, I don't know whether I'm really good or you are really pathetic/predictable.

[smilie=blaha.gif]

Oh, I should have known. The only other person who's posts are 90% directed toward DrTre.

Who is Daviticus 2:39? Come clean or CSI:WTF will begin.

It's Denny.

No it's not Denny.

Where are they now? (http://www.nba.com/heat/history/wherearetheynow_crotty_051122.html)

Fool wins. (Not that a picture of the most dominant point guard of 90s in the avatar didn't give it away)

Check that: Most dominant point guard of the 20th century... bitches.

Wow, Wow, Wow....rumors are coming in strong (and not just from MSU slappys) that Butch Davis is the man that will replace JLS. I heard it rumored on the radio, read it on a Spartan forum, and its getting going on MLive.

I would go nuts if Butch Davis took the Spartans job! He obviously can recruit and he brought back the U. This would be a dream scenario if it panned out.

C'mon Butch! Take the job!

I'm a little wary of Butch Davis. He certainly is capable of turning things around, but if that happens I think it's possible he leaves. I'm really liking the things I hear about Tenuta from GTech. Terry Foster of the Detroit News has stated Tenuta has been pursuing the job, sees MSU as a destination - not a stepping stone, and would bring strong mid-west ties w/ him in Billy Connelly as recruiting coordinator (headed recruiting for Cooper at OSU). I wouldn't be upset if MSU landed Davis, but Tenuta has become my #1 choice recently.

I'd go with Butch Davis, even if he left in a couple years. For him to leave, that would probably mean he took a better job. For that to happen, he'd probably have MSU at 9-10 wins every year. I would suspect that he'd also be bringing in good recruits as well, and have instilled some discipline. If you only get two years out of him, but he establishes all that...then maybe you are in good shape as a school and can grab the hot up and coming guy then (like if Brian Kelly is ready, etc).

Look at the Lions (i know, it's hard to). If Martz is only here a couple years, but gets his offense working here, then who cares? Sure, you'd like to have him longer, but he's already changed the culture from the dink and dunk crap.

I'm not so sure Davis would leave. He's done the NFL thing. He got that out of his system. Would he leave for a historical powerhouse? Maybe, but I'm not so sure.

As was mentioned above, for him to leave it would mean that he brought alot of success to MSU. I can handle that.

I want Butch!

From what I have heard...Butch is slowing playing it because of the Miami situation and UNC.

But that is just 3rd hand information, possibly even 4th or 5th hand.

Can they afford someone like Davis.

I mean 4 mil to BO JLS. I have the same concerns about Mooch, how much money can you throw at these guys.

Oh shit. I heard a rumor on the air today that they want to talk to Ron English. I have no clue if some idiot just made that up or if it's legit, but that rumor scares the hell out of me as a Michigan fan.

especially since English has no ties to U of M. Maybe Llyod can endorse him as his successor in a couple years. Would English wait?

That's no bull Jethro. Alot of talk about English has circulated prior to JLS even being fired. The thing I like about this situation is that many names excite me. When JLS was hired, the names mentioned prior to him did not excite me (except for Marvin Lewis).

I would be happy with several of the possibilities.

Art, I could see Butch waiting for Miami, but not UNC. North Carolina is a joke football school. Sure, MSU has made itself into one as well, but we at least have tradition of being great in the distant past. There is a little more prestige at MSU.

ESPN reports that MSU has named Butch Davis as their #1 guy right now. Who knows how much validity there is to it. But, I'm excited about it. They did mention UNC as Art mentioned, but other than the weather, I don't get it.

Mark May believes MSU's Top 3 are Davis, Mooch, and Ron English. He also threw in English as being the #1 talked about assistant in the country and will be mentioned everywhere at season's end.

I tell you what, I want Davis. However, we all know English is tough and I would love that. In addition, he might pursuade a few very significant recruits to join him in EL! I like the idea.

I love Ron English, but seriously one year and you are deemed the next coming.

I dont even want him as UM head coach unless his D is this good next year too.

While English has no ties to UM other than coaching here for the past few years; he has way more ties out in the Pac10 and if the ASU coach gets fired, I think it would be more likely that Ron goes to coach out there, because than Ron could come back to UM and coach possibly. If he coaches at MSU, I doubt he could ever become HC at UM.

BTW even if English were to go to MSU, I doubt any of the current recruits would move over to MSU. I dont think English would do that to Lloyd.

UNC is horrible now, but coaches with a decent memory can look back to the Mack Brown years and see the potential. The thing about the UNC gig is that if Davis were to take it, he would immediately have all the recruits in North Carolina looking at the program, along with giving schools in S. Carolina and Virginia a real good run, and decent consideration from the rest of the coastal schools. He knows how to recruit Florida as well. I can just see him fitting better at that program given the competition factor. A chance to play against Miami every year. You can't pass that up.

Mooch's agent said he's not interested in MSU. Take that for what it's worth.

Jethro makes a good point about recruits at UNC. He would have an easier time within his state. But, there isn't much of a history to sell people on either. I can't name a UNC guy besides Peppers.

Scout.com has an article up on the site saying that Ron English might be the front runner for the job.

Rivals however has updated their list of who the most likely replacement will be. Who was added? Nick Saban boooy! They point out that Saban still has many friends in EL and that after trying several different coaching jobs, he might find his last stop in East Lansing.

I know I've said that Butch would be my #1 choice, but that was because I didn't think Saban had a shot.

DrTre's Wishlist:
#1 Nick Saban
#2 Butch Davis
#3 Ron English
#4 Mooch

I wouldn't hold your breath on Saban.

I'm guessing that he can have the Miami U. job if he wants it.

Wouldn't have to move his family, can still golf all year long, and wouldn't have to take several steps backwards and retreat back to a place that he already advanced from.

Some might even argue that the U. of Miami job is a better job than the Dolphins.

If MSU gets anyone from that list of your Tre, I would be more shocked than if MSU beats UM without some home cooking on the gridiron.

Ron English isn't far fetched at all. Nobody knew the guy prior to this year. He's probably making like 200 grand if that. You offer him a million to be a head coach of a BT team, you think he'll turn it down?

Butch Davis to UNC.

Butch Davis to UNC.
Cross candidate #2 off Tre's wish list.

I've been hearing that it will be Todd Grantham, defensive coordinator from the Cleveland Browns. So I'm gonna go ahead and say "mark it down" because Todd Grantham will be the next HC at Michigan State.

Ron English isn't far fetched at all. Nobody knew the guy prior to this year. He's probably making like 200 grand if that. You offer him a million to be a head coach of a BT team, you think he'll turn it down?


Or he is told by Michigan that if he waits 1 to 3 years, he will coach the most historied team in college football. He's already got the inside track.

Which one is a better gig?

ESPN.com says don't count on Mariucci...


When university officials announced Wednesday that coach John L. Smith would not return for another season at Michigan State, the speculation over the potential candidacy of former San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci was immediate.

After all, Mariucci is a native of Iron Mountain, Mich. He played quarterback at Northern Michigan, was a three-time All-American there, and began his coaching career at his alma mater. And his best friend is Spartans basketball coach Tom Izzo, whose counsel will be sought, school officials acknowledged, as they begin their search for a new football coach.

So there's plenty to connect Mooch to the MSU job, right?

Maybe. But people close to Mariucci insisted this week to ESPN.com that the dots that would take him from the West Coast to East Lansing will not connect.

Mariucci has sold his Michigan home and moved back to the Bay Area. He is enjoying his work with the NFL Network, and spending time with his wife, Gayle, and their four children. There certainly are no money concerns, because the Detroit Lions, who fired Mariucci last November after he compiled a 15-28 record in less than three full seasons, still owe him $6 million next year.

And there is this surprising element: Some suspect that Izzo might advise Mariucci against taking the MSU job because of the difficulties in winning at a program that has fallen on tough times and ranks at about the middle of the pack in the Big 10.

The odds are that Mariucci, who celebrates his 51st birthday Saturday, will coach again somewhere. The odds are pretty long, though, that it will be at Michigan State.

Lloyd wants Debord to be the next coach. Bo does not. (this is all 2nd, 3rd hand info). Many believe if Lloyd beats OSU this year....he will retire.


Art

This is info that was on posted on scout.


1. Mark Dantonio, current Cincinatti head coach, former MSU assistant under Saban, former OSU D. coordinator in 2002.

2. Todd Grantham, current Browns D coordinator, former MSU assistant under Saban.

3. Jim Harbaugh, current SDU head coach, former Michigan and NFL player.

This guy also said that RE was eyeing the Standford job (since he is a WC guy).

Also that Grantham was actually the #1 guy.

Take it for what it is worth.

Michigan State wants to create a dream team of sorts in East Lansing - a potent match of two high-profile personalities to captivate the collegiate sporting scene and turn attention to East Lansing as the center of the Big Ten conference and the dominant university in the Midwest.

To do so, MSU is looking to turn over its football program to former Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci and offer the former Northern Michigan University star a long-term deal, GoSpartans.net has learned.

According to several well-placed sources, MSU is beginning to perform due diligence on a number of candidates but Mariucci is their #1 candidate. The only question is whether Mariucci wants the job.

After being out of the country for the last few days, Mariucci arrived at Detroit Metropolitan Airport Saturday and although he has sold his Birmingham, MI. home, is willing to listen to the possibility of taking over the faltering Spartan program.

Over the weekend, Mariucci's long time friend, MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo was spotted at the Muskegon/Lowell MHSAA playoff game and gave a subtle nod in the direction of Lowell high school's star quarterback and Michigan State commit Keith Nichol.

Nichol interpreted the gesture to mean that "the Michigan State program is still with me and on my side," he said to the Detroit News stellar prep writer Mick McCabe.

Some believe that Izzo was acting on Mariucci's behalf, making sure that Michigan State's star recruit didn't get away.

The main question with Mariucci's candidacy appears to be whether he is willing to get back into the recruiting wars with the same zest that Izzo possesses.

"Mooch" only spent one year as a head coach at the collegiate level with the University of California-Berkeley, improving the Golden Bears from 3-8 to 6-5 before jumping to the San Francisco 49ers.

As head coach with the Bay Area team, he put together a 60-43 record and made the playoffs four times with the Niners.

Mariucci's wife, Gayle, loves the Bay Area and their sons are going to attend college in the area. He has this season and one more remaining on the five-year, $25 million contract he signed with the Lions back on February 2003.

An even more palatable scenario would have Mariucci landing at State with Philadelphia Eagles quarterbcks coach Pat Shurmur, a George Perles disciple, as his offensive coordinator and future successor. Shurmur has been schooled in the West Coast Offense run by Andy Reid, a former staff member with Mariucci in Green Bay under current Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren.

Michigan State is also believed to have made contact with Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, a Nick Saban protegee' who was the defensive line coach during Saban's tenure and rose to assistant head coach.

Grantham was the defensive line coach for Indianapolis and Houston before moving to the Browns.

University of Michigan defensive coordinator Ron English has stated that he has not yet been contacted by Michigan State but sources have told GSN that Michigan didn't want English to talk to anyone until season's end.

According to sources, the Black Coaches Association was ready to intervene on English's behalf to facilitate an early interview, but was rebuffed.

Michigan is currently 10-0 and ranked second in the nation a week away from a showdown with #1 Ohio State a de-facto elimation game that will determine which team plays for the National Championship.

This is Sparty premium at Scout.

BTW I am just posting information that is being posted on premium boards or by scout themselves. The board members I put up usually have some inkling of what is going on, but none are 100%. I post it , you guys look through and come to your own conclusions on what else you guys have heard.

I for one appreciate it.

3. Jim Harbaugh, current SDU head coach, former Michigan and NFL player.

Holy shit, can't believe that he's actually being mentioned. I pulled his name out of my ass in the first post in this thread weeks ago.

That Mooch stuff is pretty wild too since I shared those thoughts about the "marketable dream team" of Mooch & Izzo both here and with some friends.


And there is this surprising element: Some suspect that Izzo might advise Mariucci against taking the MSU job because of the difficulties in winning at a program that has fallen on tough times and ranks at about the middle of the pack in the Big 10.

And if this is true, then MSU's got a big problem. If the basketball coach/God is advising candidates to not take the job because it's not a good one, then that situation is fucked up.

And if this is true, then MSU's got a big problem. If the basketball coach/God is advising candidates to not take the job because it's not a good one, then that situation is fucked up.

It's not true, it's anti-Spartan bullshit. Izzo is out helping the program and the following article just up on Scout.com proves it.

Job is Mariucci's if he wants it.
EAST LANSING - Michigan State wants to create a dream team of sorts in East Lansing - a potent match of two high-profile personalities to captivate the collegiate sporting scene and turn attention to East Lansing as the center of the Big Ten conference and the dominant university in the Midwest.
To do so, MSU is looking to turn over its football program to former Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci and offer the former Northern Michigan University star a long-term deal, GoSpartans.net has learned.

According to several well-placed sources, MSU is beginning to perform due diligence on a number of candidates but Mariucci is their #1 candidate. The only question is whether Mariucci wants the job.

After being out of the country for the last few days, Mariucci arrived at (correction) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Saturday and although he has sold his Birmingham, MI. home, is willing to listen to the possibility of taking over the faltering Spartan program.

Over the weekend, Mariucci's long time friend, MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo was spotted at the Muskegon/Lowell MHSAA playoff game and gave a subtle nod in the direction of Lowell high school's star quarterback and Michigan State commit Keith Nichol.

Nichol interpreted the gesture to mean that "the Michigan State program is still with me and on my side," he said to the Detroit News stellar prep writer Mick McCabe.

Some believe that Izzo was acting on Mariucci's behalf, making sure that Michigan State's star recruit didn't get away.

The main question with Mariucci's candidacy appears to be whether he is willing to get back into the recruiting wars with the same zest that Izzo possesses.

"Mooch" only spent one year as a head coach at the collegiate level with the University of California-Berkeley, improving the Golden Bears from 3-8 to 6-5 before jumping to the San Francisco 49ers.

As head coach with the Bay Area team, he put together a 60-43 record and made the playoffs four times with the Niners.

Mariucci's wife, Gayle, loves the Bay Area and their sons are going to attend college in the area. He has this season and one more remaining on the five-year, $25 million contract he signed with the Lions back on February 2003.

An even more palatable scenario would have Mariucci landing at State with Philadelphia Eagles quarterbcks coach Pat Shurmur, a George Perles disciple, as his offensive coordinator and future successor. Shurmur has been schooled in the West Coast Offense run by Andy Reid, a former staff member with Mariucci in Green Bay under current Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren.

Michigan State is also believed to have made contact with Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, a Nick Saban protegee' who was the defensive line coach during Saban's tenure and rose to assistant head coach.

Grantham was the defensive line coach for Indianapolis and Houston before moving to the Browns.

University of Michigan defensive coordinator Ron English has stated that he has not yet been contacted by Michigan State but sources have told GSN that Michigan didn't want English to talk to anyone until season's end.

According to sources, the Black Coaches Association was ready to intervene

The thing that might keep Mooch from taking this job though is his comfy cozy warm rich lifestyle in Cali. I don't know that I'd leave if I was loaded and had a great place to live.

Oh baby boy. This is not rumor mill stuff. This has been mentioned in Spartan circles alot lately.

Before everyone quickly dispells or poo-poo's the notion of Saban returning, consider this: he left primarily because of his poor relationship with McPherson. They didn't see eye to eye, and Saban refused to be a lackey. He refused to play the good soldier to the game of MSU politics, so when he was offered major money by LSU, he knew McPherson would refuse to match it, which he didn't, so he left. Also, if you have read Spartan Seasons 2 (which is a good read) it talks of Saban's love of MSU and E. Lansing, something that I was unaware of until I read it. He never made a public fuss about it, but he went on record (even after his departure) to talk of how much the MSU job meant to him. Lastly, and no this is not rumor mongering, he was in East Lansing last Tuesday, ironically the day before it was announced that L was fired. The Dolphins were not on a BYE, so there were no apparent "unofficial" reasons why he would have been there. Coincidence? Maybe. But, don't scoff at the notion of a Saban return.

And then they beat Chicago. That will mean a lot in Dolphinland.

Nice to see the same article has been posted 3 times in this thread.:thumbsup:

Izzo says Mooch is no longer a canidate. I've flip flopped on my Mooch take several times, but I think I'm a little relieved.

Harbaugh is rumored now to be going to Iowa State, as well as his name is still around for MSU.

Butch to UNC. http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2659982

Also Mooch is scheduled to be on Fox Sports Radio with Andrew Siciliano tonight (7 pm) to discuss the MSU job.

I'm not excited about a single option out there. MSU should have pushed strong for Butch Davis.

They screw everything up.

They'll probably take their sweet ass time hiring a coach too so that we lose all of our recruits.

When did Landingham jump to Wisconsin?

Outside of RoJo, I'm not sure who they are recruiting or have as commits that both schools were after all that much. So I'm not all that excited about the prospects of them losing recruits. They'll just end up at schools with other talent and make schools like Wisconsin, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Penn State more difficult to beat.

When did Landingham jump to Wisconsin?

Outside of RoJo, I'm not sure who they are recruiting or have as commits that both schools were after all that much. So I'm not all that excited about the prospects of them losing recruits. They'll just end up at schools with other talent and make schools like Wisconsin, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Penn State more difficult to beat.

I thought there was something to that when I checked it on Rivals. He was listed as a commit, but after JLS was fired, he was gone, but there was no article. Rivals wouldn't just take off a commit on accident. Sucks that he went to a strong B10 school though.