Mondays In The Humidor With The Big Cigar

Very interesting. Thanks.

and a former assistant that does broadcasting

Tim Brewster – loose lips sink ships man!

Interesting. It seems that anyone hiring Diaz now is taking a huge risk, since he does not have many skins on the wall. The bigger question is if the staff think that Ash has what it takes between the ears, since he appears to have the physical ability.

Interesting, indeed. Could you elaborate more on Diaz rumors? Is it more tangible than just the fact that he is a rock star and any school would be lucky to have him?

Thanks JS. This helped alleviate some of the shakes as I think we were all going through some sort of withdrawals symptoms rgding info out of the humidor.

This season had definitely been a roller coaster ride and can see that hitting Mack hard. Interesting times still ahead.

Hook’ Em

Third!

Thanks JS. I can understand why you held this, not really a bombshell, more of a minefield. Considering the recent speculation coming out of Kansas, I think it was good for us to have the Big Cigar’s take. Certainly leaves us with a lot of food for thought going into the bowl season.

Doesn’t make me confident that Brewer is the answer.

This makes too much sense to be true.

Brewer COULD be the answer, but he is still in High School. We all thought Gilbert was the answer too. Just too many variables to throw at an 18 year old kid.

Must. Keep. Diaz.

I have always held the notion that Mack would retire within three years of 2009, so this surprises me none. I just really want Petersen, Harsin, and Diaz here for the long haul.

FUUUUCCCKKKK. Not at all looking forward to more coaching carousel stuff this off-season for us. Thanks for the update, but doesn’t really put me at ease, particularly if the bowl win is a great defensive effort against a very good offense.

Transitions are never easy. I think all us Longhorns knew that once Mack was done finding the next one wasn’t going to be a smooth ride. Coaching hires directly after big name coaches retire usually don’t pan out. But I respect the effort and planning going into keeping the program running at a high level. Jesus, Mack needs your prayers for energy!

shiiieeeet, the man looks 70 and probably feels like 90….

I heard back before the game that if we won that game against alabama then MB was resigning. Then we lost and I heard, from the same channel, that Mack and GD thought Gilbert was the best prospect that they had ever had and that he would lead them back to the MNC game so they could go out on a high (which is insane considering the depths of the talent level on the team at the time). Now we have another contingency based resignation plan.

Sounds like if Diaz is not hired away (and I don’t think he will be, personally) and Peterson doesn’t go to UCLA (and I don’t think he will), then nothing changes.

Sad and sensible. Mack has looked tired these last few seasons.

A big question I have about Diaz is if he is happy here. He is so intense, it’s hard to tell. I wonder if Mack’s fluctuation in engagement has made it difficult for the assistants.

If the new coaches want to be here, I hope Mack stays and keeps this staff together. I like where things are going and Mack, I think, is key to keeping things that way for the next two seasons.

I wouldn’t want the decisions of Petersen to affect us much. I’m in no rush to see if a new coach will fit in. It’s always a crap shoot.

Here are the Diaz rumors I have seen. Diaz was supposedly contacted to interview for the Ole Miss job. Dan Mullen at Miss St. is seemingly on a lot of short lists and since Manny coached there last it also seems he could be on their interview list if Mullen moves on. We also don’t know what Manny wants. Would he take a job at MTSU (where he got his start as a coach) to get himself in the HC fraternity? He is a hot commodity so does UH get in touch if Sumlin leaves? Who knows, but if the Cigar is worried then I think Diaz is indeed a hot commodity with real options.

Add to it the risk that Petersen takes another job and BSU comes calling for Harsin and Mack could literally be back to square one.

And why we do not go after a JUCO or transfer at QB is simply beyond comprehension. He even admits we do not have an answer but yet we sit by doing nothing to address it.

Going one season without a viable QB is one thing. Three years is criminal negligence.

Toadvine, it’s sort of interesting to look back in retrospect and realize that Mack’s two “prize child” QBs were Chris Simms and Garrett Gilbert. One wonders how different these past 10 years would be if Brewster didn’t push for VY and Vince didn’t leave early, opening the door for an unheralded Colt McCoy.

$5 Million a year should buy an awful lot of energy.

No true freshman QB is ever the answer.

If Petersen knows he is in line at Texas, no fucking way he takes UCLA….

Am I the only one that thinks we have to do everything within our power to keep Diaz? Yes it has only been one year, yes he is still slightly unproven, but I would say this is the best our D has looked in YEARS… With the players we have coming in, not to mention the ones currently on board, I think he is a must keep.

Interesting. Without reading and knowing this yesterday, my first thought when Petersen turned down UCLA was that he might be doing it for Texas. I may be way out on a limb but, IMO, he takes over this year or next and already knows it. Why else would he turn down UCLA?

There are encouraging signs of strategic thought in this process. The Peterson talk reminded me of the terrific article PW wrote (http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2011/5/19/2178592/boise-state-butler-chris-petersen-brad-stevens) which posits that Boise’s success is the product of a culture more than a single individual. Culture can’t be simply hired away, it’s infrastructure that must be developed.

Now think to the Texas-Boise connections we’ve seen in recent years. If I recall, their staff visited us in the off-season (two years ago?). By all accounts those visits formed substantial rather than fleeting bonds, and the two staffs have been close ever since. Then we hire the co-architect of their offense and sculpt an offensive philosophy they’ve used for years. All this points to Texas building a Boise-like culture and infrastructure which will ensure Peterson is not Dan Hawkins 2.0

Calling defense Petersen’s blind spot is a bit disingenuous. BSU’s defenses have been about as good as a mid-major defense can be in his tenure. People remember the statue of liberty and the hook and lateral tp beat OU, but nobody remembers the 50-someodd yards on 20-someodd carries that Adrian Peterson had before his OT run.

Petersen is like Meyer in that they are both complete head coaches, despite being known mainly for offense. We’d be lucky to have him.

If we go after him and fail I hope they give Diaz a good look. He’s a star, imo.

Ricky- thanks!

Both Harsin and Diaz would be smart to stay at Texas for a few years in their respective positions. They will make invaluable contacts among Texas HS coaches, they will get true big time football experience, they will be involved in a media model that (despite its frustrating beginning) will likely be the future of television and college athletics and they will likely make more money than most schools could even pay them as HC.

Chris Simms and Garrett Gilbert were a lot of head coaches’ prize child QBs. Just saying… you can’t exactly fault Mack for putting too much stock into them, as I remember it, both had the national ranking services and HC nationally fawning over them.

I got blasted on another site for suggesting this but why wouldn’t Texas be able to pay Diaz pretty much whatever he wants? Granted, I’m sure we couldn’t or wouldn’t price match a major college but, with the LHN money, merchandise sales, unending supply of donors, why wouldn’t Texas offer a couple of hundred thousand more than whatever, say, Ole Miss offers? We could afford it.

Appreciate the info., but this is really the kind of stuff that I wish would stay behind closed doors. Yes, I know I am in the minority.

Mack obviously told this to a few people he trusted in confidence and now they have gone out and betrayed that trust.

I now look forward to a million “See! Mack has checked out” posts everytime the team struggles.

If all of this plays out, I really hope Mack stays on with the Texas AD in some capacity.

So…are we excited about Petersen? I think I could be.

Where does Applewhite fit into this “master plan”?

Mack’s comments about losing energy reminds me of what DKR went through post the 1969 Championship season. I’ve heard several top level coaches comment on how hard it is to repeat their efforts after reaching the mountaintop. Even with younger coaches, it is hard.

I do hope Mack takes the high road, if appropriate, and leave while his legacy is still in good standing, rather than allowing the program to suffer. If I read his character properly, that’s exactly what he will do.

I, for one, will miss him greatly.

GM,

Applewhite still seems to be the eventual HC, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him bolt for another HC job for a bit while Petersen would (potentially) do his thing in the interim.

By the way, I’m not sure any of this news is unexpected for a 60 year old man. There’s a lot to consider on his plate—the obligations to his coaching staff, his legacy, the fact that leaving means never coaching at a high major level again (Bill Snyder’s resurrection aside), and the money. But at some point, I’m sure you just feel old and sans the desire to compete.

Discussions of a succession plan should be considered ordinary for someone in Mack’s position. In fact, it’s probably been going on since our disappointing ’07 season—hence the Muschamp HCIW designation.

While the QB situation must have been taxing, I’m not sure if that much has changed in the year since Mack refused to cede way to Muschamp vs. a promising 2011 campaign with immediate help on the way.

The Diaz/Petersen situation does compound things, though…

If we learned anything from last year, and from the WV debacle, FSU and others – exit strategies need to stay between the AD and HC only (or the very few inside the tent). I get that the HCIW tag on Muschamp was basically a way of bumping his salary, but everyone (team, media, fans, etc) needs to know who the chief is and not be distracted by having chief #2’s name being out in public.

Things move too fast. Chances are the plan will change.

WOW !!

Forget about the IMPACT of Sherm leaving on the aggie recruits, think about the IMPACT Mack retiring might have on our recruits!

JS and Tips,

your thoughts on the 2012 class of:

 A) this rumor of Mack retiring

- and -

 B) If Mack really retires

Thanks !!

Can Texas get a JUCO QB? If it works out great, if not it is only a 2 year commitment on a scholarship.

Need more clarification on the LHN and favorable realignment scenario. Is this a reference to Notre Dame?

Fascinating. Thanks as always & thanks for holding this until the time was right.

“The plan was Petersen was the hand-picked guy if Mack stepped down, and then they’d money-whip a defensive guru to protect his blind spot.” Priceless (pun intended). And yes Diaz IS the guy. Then the question is how much for how long until he leaves for a HC job.

“Appreciate the info., but this is really the kind of stuff that I wish would stay behind closed doors. Yes, I know I am in the minority.

Mack obviously told this to a few people he trusted in confidence and now they have gone out and betrayed that trust.

I now look forward to a million "See! Mack has checked out" posts everytime the team struggles."

THIS

Again, Mack’s not going anywhere this year unless something crazy goes down. The 2012 class will remain intact and it’s a great one—perhaps the best ever under Mack. The takeaway from all of this is that Mack Brown is not the type to leave a program high and dry, and that’s one of the characteristics that has helped make him a Texas legend.

Not to mention the public vote of no confidence in our QB’s and our chances of winning big soon

A three year commitment? It sounds good on the day of the handshake but means little afterwards.

Back during the staff recruiting/hiring, we were told by this author that Mack insisted upon a 3-year commitment from his staff choices. Are they backing away from their commitment or is he that hard to work for, given his souring attitude?

“Again, Mack’s not going anywhere this year unless something crazy goes down. The 2012 class will remain intact and it’s a great one–perhaps the best ever under Mack. The takeaway form all of this is that Mack Brown is not the type to leave a program high and dry, and that’s one of the characteristics that has helped make him a Texas legend.”

THIS.

There has been a lot of whining on this site lately about Mack, but I’m one in the camp that thinks he has been great for the program. I would personally love to see him give it one more year. I think both Mack and Deloss want to leave the program in the strongest state possible. It is their legacy.

I do agree that Texas needs to do everything it can to keep Diaz. What a great, inspired hire by Mack. Diaz is a fantastic coach.

I am now starting to see Texas through my Dad’s eyes. We had a lot of arguments in the early/mid 70s when I went to Texas over whether DKR should resign. My Dad insisted coaches like that just can’t be replaced. The next 20+ years proved him right. Mack has brought a lot to this program, not just in wins/losses. I just hope when he does resign that we don’t spend the next 20 years wandering the desert. Mack has aged a lot the past few years, and I know from first hand experience that doing a job you don’t enjoy isn’t fun or healthy. DKR said he knew it was time to quit when he quit having fun, and Mack looks to be in that position.

Our stadium already has the longest name in sports. Why not add a few more words:

Darrell K. Royal – Mack Brown Texas Memorial Stadium.

Thanks Jesus …..
Not unexpectedly, good stuff. I think Mack’s gonna sit down with Sally during Christmas & they will decide it’s time to hand up the spurs &the watch the young’uns do their thing.
time for Peterson with Harsin headed back to Boise &the Applewhite named co-head coach/offensive coordinator.
let Major continue to head up recruiting & get it on.
Hook’Em

I saw on another board that there were at least some reports that Peterson had already given UCLA a ‘thanks but no thanks’. Given that Peterson is a different cat in terms of motivation and has a unique situation (his child’s medical condition that has been a big reason for him staying in Boise) I’d be surprised if he jumped off-schedule to a place like UCLA. There have been enough whisperings about the mutual admiration society going on between Peterson and Austin that if he’s the odds-on leader as Mack’s eventual successor I doubt we’ll have to accelerate any timetables on his account to keep him from jumping elsewhere (at least if we’re not going out past 2014).

Diaz is tougher, but I’d only be really worried about Miss St. if Mullen leaves because of his connections there. It’s impossible to predict the future and there’s never a guarantee what will be on the table for you down the road, but Diaz is sitting in a pretty prime spot. Right now, the #1 name out there as King Shit DC In Line For Big-Time Coaching Vacancies is Kirby Smart at ‘Bama. With another season like the one the Texas D has put together accompanied (cross our fingers) by widely seen paens on the Longhorn Network, Diaz can be at least 1A in that conversation. Can’t imagine any factors that would make him itchy here – he’s returning a ton on defense and there haven’t been any whispers of clashes with Mack or any other factors that might make him anything other than a happy camper here.

Mack’s mindset may be the biggest wildcard, but if I had to lay down a bet I’d say that the staff remains together through 2012. I couldn’t imagine Mack stepping down before a bowl, and I think we thrash whatever bowl opponent we get based on our weapons being healthy and two outstanding coordinators having a month to prepare. Mack is at heart an optimist, and that should put a lot of wind back in his sails if he’s feeling weary.

OTH said – “Fascinating. Thanks as always & thanks for holding this until the time was right”

All this inside info is fascinating. Tell me how in the hell the timing is right?

Spilling out gossip on the status of the current coaching staff from an unnamed booster is only done for the purpose of entertaining the BC masses and stroking the cigar. To suggest that this in any way is doing right by the program is disingenuous.

The big cigar needs STFU.

If the juco linemen commit and pan out and if we get adequate play from the QB(s), next year could be a lot of fun. I’ve been ruminating (actually went outside and got a mouthful of grass to do it right) and have an even better feel of Mack’s obsession with the QB position. At rest next week, I hope he sees the potential of the entire team. There are surely doubts, but a lot of brick-by-brick work has been done this year. It’d be a kick in the gut to have the bricks scattered.

If they could bring in Petersen (I just googled him and see more why is so desired), hold Diaz and much of the staff (I guess Harsin would return home leaving Major as OC?), and hold the recruiting class together I could feel fairly good about the whole thing. Still, I’d prefer Mack stay if he can put in the work.

If this was too big a bombshell to post in November, why is it ok now just before a game that determines whether we have a winning or losing record in the Big 12? And we haven’t won 8 games, only seven or are you just banking the Baylor game?

As was discussed during UCLA week, the UCLA job is fool’s gold. I’d be surprised if Petersen takes it.

Problem is, the QB position is more than unsettled. The starter is the starter for the sole reason that his significant limitations are well-known and he (mostly) plays within them.

Query: what’s the minimum level of competence and skill at QB that would allow Mack to get a good night’s sleep? Kellen Moore? Collin Klein? AJ McCarron? as long as the Horns win 10 games?

I have it on good authority that we are fucked.

Ty, I think we could throw whatever $ Diaz wanted his way, but having the chance to run your own show is one hell of an opportunity. I hope he doesn’t take Ole Miss (not just b/c I want to keep him but b/c I like him and don’t wish that job on anyone) ever as it could really blemish him down the road. He will just eventually need to figure out what the risk-reward is in that.

The Head Coach at Texas, ideally, A). can handle the politics and media attention of running a major program. B). Is a great recruiter C). has some schematic chops to maintain a consistent philosophy and develop coaching talent.

Major Applewhite is the head coaching candidate that people don’t often talk about. He’s had experience in multiple schemes with some pretty crafty coordinators on both sides of the ball, he’s an excellent recruiter, and he’s good on the political side. Next year or in 5 years, either way I think he’s one of the next great head coaches and I hope it’s here.

GM Platter,

It has been reported that Mack would resign after the Baylor game. That story out of Kansas (of all places!) has attracted some attention. In view of that, I think this piece by the Jesus is called for at this moment.

As I get ready to post this, I bet others have beat me to it. BUT, they’re only faster typers, the bastards.

Ricky C, because it’s already out there, albeit in a more hurtful, semi-inaccurate form. I thought you guys might want to know what’s really going on.

A little off-season stability will do Mack well. Just let what was put in place last off-season crank.

Feeling somewhat reassured that Mack will put the program’s future above personal pride going forward. The further we get away from the Alabama loss, the more it’s revealed about how devastating it was personally for Mack.

Can anyone confirm Petersen is undergoing cedar allergy treatments in Boise?

This could explain why Peterson was so supportive of Harsin coming to Texas. The transition would be fairly easy if Peterson can rely on Harsin to show him the ropes at Texas and if Peterson’s system has already been installed by the time he gets there.

It’s pretty classy of Mack to worry this much about the transition and ensuring that Texas will do well once he’s gone.

Thanks for the update. It sounds like Peterson is passing on UCLA. WIth the running game we expect to see next year, why don’t we think Ash or Case can continue to develop? VY wasn’t VY his first year and a half. That being said, I sure wish we could get Chance Mock play out of either Ash or McCoy.

The reason for posting this now is because there are now other rumors that Mack has already resigned. The bombshell has been dropped, JS’s information is that the bombshell is most likely a dud but there are situations that could cause it go off sooner rather than later.

GM – agreed. RomaVicta – yes it probably required some sort of response but this was way TMI.

JS, I love reading your posts and you have been absolutely nails from the get-go. But I think in this case your better judgment was overcome by the need to uphold your record of being right for the world to see. Sometimes discretion is the better part of valor.

Oops, should have refreshed before I hit submit!

Did Petersen turn down UCLA? I saw a tweet that suggest that BSU denied UCLA contact with Petersen. Not sure if that means the same thing, but it does seem like a difference in who is in control.

you know, when mack hired his coordinators, my impression was that youth in them was seen as a huge plus because they might not be targets for other schools for a while. had we had as few holes in the offensive roster as we had in the defensive roster, i bet we would be sweating both manny and bryan right now.

i think we have all sensed that the past couple of years were very hard on mack. he has been a lion in today’s game, but there will come a point where he no longer has the will and strength to run this program. let’s all hope that his good nature and good sense will keep him in touch with his shrewd friends to let him know when that time has come. in the meantime, i’m going to continue to luxuriate in the best-run longhorn football program since darrell graced and paced our sidelines. thanks, mack, for all you’ve done, and i hope you have the heart to complete this rebuild and that the great young leaders in this program right now will see it through.

Lot of terrific thoughts in the responses here. And thank you hardly seems sufficient, Jesus . . . a lot of time and thought (and timing) went into your original post. You’re doing what the TV and newspaper guys used to do, doing it better, and reporting it more accurately. And less sensationally.

It seems to me many of the moving parts in this equation deal with coaches who stay. Or don’t stay.

Is Petersen comfortable enough with his chances at the UT job that he will turn down a UCLA or Arizona State for a couple of seasons? Are Harsin and Diaz and Applewhite happy enough, comfortable enough, to stay put for another 1-2 seasons? Are those coaches’ families willing to relocate — in the case of Manny and Bryan, after just one year in Austin. Does Mack have the energy to fill staff gaps as well as he did a year ago?

Most critical to me, though, is that there NOT BE A TIMETABLE on Mack’s exit. Counting down seasons, games, until his retirement party are the best possible way to lose potential recruits and top-level assistants (who leave the program, or won’t come). I’m in the minority on this point, but here goes: I think we ought to have a staff change or two EVERY December. We need to keep fresh ideas and new staff dynamics coming constantly — lest we fall into the malaise that infected the program in the years before 2010.

I’m fine with Mack telling his bosses — or them telling him — this his how much longer he’ll be the head coach. I’m totally opposed to making that public. The Muschamp HCIW deal was a program killer. We’re starting to grow the grass again after that pesticide of a decision.

I was reasonably close to the program from 1967 until DKR’s shocking 1976 retirement announcement. That literally surfaced the week it happened. Royal was 52 when he retired. He knew it was time to go. Mack knows (or will know), when it’s his time.

I’m pretty conflicted after taking a stroll through the Humidor. I honor Mack for everything he’s done to bring this program to the level it is today. He deserves the right to decide when hes done, without interference. And I respect the fact that a man of his age and experience is going to have some ups and downs in his energy level. No problems there.

All of that said, at some point you have to make a decision. And with Mack, it feels like he’s been waffling or ambivalent about how much he wants to keep coaching for several years, and that his decisions are all contingent on W-L/legacy results,rather than on his ability/desire to put in the work necessary to achieve those results. So I think I agree with the powers that be… The time has come for a firm time table.

JS, can you outline any potential scenarios? Do the powers that be have a feeling for how long Petersen is content to wait for this opening? If Mack should decide he just doesn’t have a 2012 campaign in him, what does that do to the current staff? Is keeping Diaz a priority fornthe foreseeable future, or is the Petersen choice made with the understanding that it will cost us Diaz at some point?

Can Petersen recruit Texas? That’s really what matters and we know Mack can.

Only four coaches have lasted 10 years at Texas. Only DKR has lasted longer, and he hung it up at 52. This job has been a coach killer for a century.

IMG, bringing Zombie Nation to a (every) stadium near you. I think college sports in general would be better off without IMG.

Mack is no fan of the LHN. I’ve said it from the start – it is the straw that broke the camel’s back in terms of hastening his departure.

I hope he sees it through 2013, which is the next time we have a chance to be nationally relevant.

“And with Mack, it feels like he’s been waffling or ambivalent about how much he wants to keep coaching for several years, and that his decisions are all contingent on W-L/legacy results,rather than on his ability/desire to put in the work necessary to achieve those results. "

I think you discount the loyalty Mack feels towards The University and the obligation he feels to leaving the program in a good position and in good hands. Maybe he is trying to make sure the next 20 years aren’t similar to the 20 the followed DKR.

Thanks as always for the data. It helps explain other rumors that have been circulated and will/would circulate irrespective of what this site posts.

In light of the charlie-foxtrot that is in full bloom with our friends to the east, let me just say a loud and frequent halle-fucking-lujah that we have strong, thoughtful leadership at this university that can navigate through the minefield. Little brother does such a marvelous job of bumblefucking that it’s easy to forget that this shit is complicated and not altogether easy.

Interesting times ahead for all, but I can’t imagine a set of people I’d rather having driving.

Are Harsin and Diaz and Applewhite happy enough, comfortable enough, to stay put for another 1-2 seasons? Are those coaches’ families willing to relocate — in the case of Manny and Bryan, after just one year in Austin.

Darrell Royal did two years at Mississippi State, then went to Washington. When Texas opened up the next year, he took it.

So I’d say it depends on the job.

If Mack leaves will be still have a position around the dept keeping the connections intact and helping Peterson or whoever comes in adjust to locking down Texas recruiting? I hope so.

Jesus…. It’s Friday!

When he does retire, Mack doesn’t need the pain of being the AD. He needs a nice weekly show on LHN where he can be the Mack Brown we all love and sell the University. Call it “Remembering Your Birthday with Mack and Sally Brown.”

The point being, I hope he can find a way to stay around and work actively for the program when he finally leaves. He needs to find a nice grandfather role- none of the work, all of the fun, and loved by everyone.

Without researching it too much, are there any games that Texas will not be favored in next year? I guess it depends on whom returns at OU and Okie St. Point being, a poster above made a pretty good point about how everyone involved in the program can call their shot after next year – assuming things go as planned. Yes, big assumption.

There is a big risk; small reward for Diaz to go to Miss St. If he doesn’t succeed, he’s set his career back quite a bit. And, everyone knows success at Miss St. would be extremely difficult regardless of whom is in charge. I say he stays.

Horn casting:

I clearly didn’t give that nearly enough attention in my post, you’re correct. And it’s one more reason to honor Mack for the incredible coach that he is. But a lot of the discussion seemed centered on the QB position (rightly so, it needs attention), and so I’m really seeking clarification. Does he feel like he needs to leave the program AFTER he’s recruited the future QB, or is he content to leave the team strong across the board and let Petersen or whoever find that QB?

And not for nothing, but if his LHN commitments are sapping his energy level, friggin end them! Nobody can see it anyway. Let Bill Little do it. Lol.

Wow…JS, you know that you’ve struck a nerve if your posting is compared to the “Biggest Douche in the Universe” episode of South Park. Some poster named DLev obviously has an axe to grind with you.

Hey guy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axWsbQhNCs0

One thing about Petersen is his childs medical condition that’s kept him in Boise. If I remember correctly, the only other city that had a specialist for his kid was LA.

GM Platter. Others have answered your question about timing. Additionaly JS held this info for some time & I assumed he discussed it’s release with his sources. Perhaps my bad.
 Traditional media outlets furnish similar info in a less timely manner but for the same purposes. Asking the Big Cigar to stfu is asking people not to talk & it’s my understanding the function of BC is entertaing their following with inside information. I understand your position not to do damage to the program but wanting people not to share information is unrealistic.

it’s amazing how this qb situation has screwed so many people. thank you greg davis.

It’s clear Mack’s energy is lagging and frankly 14 years at a high-pressure program is too long for most men and certainly for Mack who is ultra-senstive to every slight and takesevery loss especially hard.

The offense mess can be laid directly at his footsteps. He has been much more involved in personnel decision on the offensive side of the ball and at WR, TE, OL and QB there have been whiff after whiff.

Recruits and assistant coaches will take care of themselves, it starts at he top.

One other point: it’s been argued that Mack doesn’t want to leave the program in a bind, and sentence us to a 20 year period like the one after DKR. All well and good. But he also needs to recognize that his influence won’t have much effect outside of 4-5 years after his departure, as that’s the life of his last recruiting class. decisions after that will be made by AD’s and coaches that come after him.

So if Petersen is the guy, be sure he’s THE guy. Because if it doesn’t work, THAT choice will be the one that causes as 10-20 year journey through the desert. Are we that sure about Petersen? I have no problem if we are, I’m just asking the question.

One thing about Petersen is his childs medical condition that’s kept him in Boise. If I remember correctly, the only other city that had a specialist for his kid was LA.

That’s been debunked, like the rumor that Petersen is a Scientologist.

Whats the word on the other QB commit, Jalen Overstreet?

If Mack would just get off his high horse and do a little skullduggery like others are doing, we could fix the QB problem…at least in the short term…pretty quick. Go full bore after Matt Davis, go after the Tech kid, look at who’s available in the JUCO ranks. But don’t let a potentially GREAT 2012 Texas team suffer by not pursing all ways to improve the QB position.

With all the QB talk, why not line up in the bone?

QB-Ash
FB-Bergeron
HB-Brown
HB-Gray

Option,option,option,shot down the field… Eat the clock, catch the D out of position and beat em deep. Takes the heat off our D to a certain extent, not to mention we have the skill players to turn this into a better backfield than the DKR backfield.(let the bashing of this plan begin)

“Again, Mack’s not going anywhere this year unless something crazy goes down. The 2012 class will remain intact and it’s a great one–perhaps the best ever under Mack. The takeaway from all of this is that Mack Brown is not the type to leave a program high and dry, and that’s one of the characteristics that has helped make him a Texas legend.”

This is reassuring, but, pardon me if my reading comprehension is flawed, I got a MUCH gloomier picture from the actual Humidor write up. In fact, I started having a panic attack and “OH, NOOESS!!!” was just about forcing it’s way up out of my chest.

What I got from the Humidor is that Mack is absolutely worn out and has lost his enthusiasm, which would be a serious blow to the rebuilding program. The fantastic set of assistants he has hired could be expected to stay for the duration only if the head coach is engaged and captaining the ship with authority. This really contradicts the totally upbeat reports we’ve had all season. I’m confused.

Also, the Humidor would seem to confirm reports that Mack was absolutely FORCED into making the moves he made by OUTSIDE pressure and NOT from the total commitment he feels to having a strong program. Once again, I’m confused, given other reports in the past to the contrary.

Maybe I’ve been confused by my outside-looking-in Pollyanna-ish desire for everything to be hunky-dory and on the mend, and I’m only seeing what I want to see most of the time, but I must say that this Humidor unsettles me.

This stuff shouldn’t be posted. It could hurt the team and recruiting.

I don’t really think Mack would be great as an AD.

Some type of public position where he keeps the donors happy, rubs elbows with the right people, sends all of the right people cards at Christmas and birthdays (handwritten of course), combined with a position that oversees NCAA compliance type issues would be perfect. I’ll never forget the answer he gave to ESPN last year about the cars the players drive.

Hey-soos, great stuff and well worth waiting for. Don’t sweat the digs, as you are 100% correct that this cat is out of the bag and in a way more destructive form. Your restraint was admirable and I think the stuff coming out of KS demanded that the record be set straight.

As a possible solution for Mack, is there any chance of our getting a hold of the recipe for the acai berry smoothies Bill Snyder drinks that has kept the Crypt Keeper on the sideline at Kansas St. well into his third century?

That’s it. Come on man. Sounds like a lot of gossip/speculation rather than Dead Sea scroll stuff befitting your namesake.

“So if Petersen is the guy, be sure he’s THE guy. Because if it doesn’t work, THAT choice will be the one that causes as 10-20 year journey through the desert. Are we that sure about Petersen? I have no problem if we are, I’m just asking the question.”

Nick – that was what I was getting at in my previous post.

Lurker: Well said, it absolutely does put some holes in the “How Mack Got His Groove Back” meme that was consistently portrayed throughout 2011. Would love additional input on this point.

Mack sure didn’t seem to have lost his fire when he got pissed about what happened with Brenham last year and subsequently turned Brown and Cole. And that happened when the ags were still a top 10 team.

Mack needs to actually start excercising and eating right. If he drops the 30 he’s gained, he will have much more energy – if he wants to continue.

Do you know anyone who quit a job that pays $100,000 a week—-ever? I dont either.

MB will be forced out by ESPN brass. Enter Petersen.

You guys have been nails but this sounds like something we would see blowing up on twitter. I hope you’re wrong.

Not to be a contrarian,

But I would tend to agree with lurkers premise. The Cigar’s report seems much more troubling than what the summarized take away is. His quotes make it sound like we have an often unengaged coach who is going through the season much like aging, Alzheimer ridden Presidents float in and out of coherence during their second terms in office.

Ummm… if that is true, perhaps Mack needs the ejection cord pulled for him. Loyalty be damned… either take stuff off of the man’s plate, or tell him it is time for him to bow out gracefully.

It could hurt the team and recruiting.

This is silly.

Horn casting: Agree with you completely, and I guess my initial response was aimed more at mechanics than big picture. Sorry if I wasn’t clear on that.

I guess my question is this: If confidence abounds that Petersen is the guy, then why so much worry about what state you leave the program in, particularly position-specific worry? He’ll either succeed or not, and the fact that there’s some concern (is it just on Mack’s part, or does it go higher?) about leaving it in THE EXACT RIGHT SPOT before you can trust Petersen to take over seems iffy to me.

I totally understand the desire for a seamless tranition, but no transition will be totally seamless, so either trust the guy to make the right calls, or explain why you don’t trust him and he’s still THE guy.

Can’t lose Diaz, but can’t lose Harsin either.

People who focus on Diaz just compare the offense as-is to the defense as-is, ignoring two huge realities:

1. The offense was notably worse — had been recruited and trained less well — before either Diaz or Harsin hit Austin.

2. The offense suffered critical injuries from which there was no adequate recovery possible. Take out Randall, Diggs, and Byndom at mid-season, and how would the defense, and therefore Diaz, look today?

Re Mack: Whatever. I’ll believe it when I see it.

Re QB/Gilbert situation: I’ve pointed as many fingers at Greg Davis as anyone else, but consider that Harsin also thought Gilbert was the guy, months after coming to UT — as late as the second game this season.

Gilbert, to this day, has all the tools and the knowledge, I think. He just also seems also to have an exaggerated, lingering, and possibly incurable case of freshman “Christ, these defenses are fast, I have no time to think” shell-shock.

To be a good QB, you must continually think three-five seconds into the future. You cannot simply react moment by moment (as shell-shocked QBs do), or your throws will trail receivers, you will generate picks, you’ll scramble poorly, etc.

I think this is true of Ash at the moment and hope very much it can be overcome by September 2012.

This “report” is BS and saying that the time is right is BS also.

You’re being played by this big cigar who’s feeding you info to stroke his ego and advance whatever agenda he has in this fluid situation. Using a rumor out of Kansas as reason to pile on more speculation is a convenient tactic (see battleship maine/gulf of tonkin)

Is your info accurate? I dont know. Is it confirmed by any named sources? No. Does it answer the question of whether MB is retiring this year? NO

Look, I like this site. I read it all the time. Report what you want, say what you want – that’s fine. Just dont blow smoke that you are “fans and sat on the information because you didn’t want to derail or distract from what has turned out to be a pretty damn productive season”

This is most definitely derailing and distracting.

As Mack’s waistline increases, # of wins decreases. (Check ‘06 vs ’10/’11 photos) Someone get that big Mac eating, leftover couch of a coach away from MB. Get Mack an elliptical & a loop of Wylie on his iPod. Mack’ll find his toes, his energy & 3 more wins.

Mack’s going to hold on as long as he can. He is making too much IMO. No one leaves that kind of money at the table. I’m betting it gets ugly

If confidence abounds that Petersen is the guy, then why so much worry about what state you leave the program in, particularly position-specific worry? He’ll either succeed or not, and the fact that there’s some concern (is it just on Mack’s part, or does it go higher?) about leaving it in THE EXACT RIGHT SPOT before you can trust Petersen to take over seems iffy to me.

Where are you getting this from?

The concern about what state the program is left in is matter of personal pride for Mack, in that he wouldn’t want to walk away leaving the program in a poor state. It in no way reflects on Mack’s successor, whoever he is.

WILL EVERYONE PLEASE TAKE A CHILL PILL.

A. Jesus has every right to de-bunk rumors that are circulating from more than just Topeka.
B. Mack is allowed to say the job is physically and mentally draining. It should be. It’s one reason it commands the highest salary in college football.
C. The news (and important message here) is that there is a plan. That plan probably has a long-term version and short term contingencies. That’s a good thing. As some have mentioned, that’s what good leadership does.

The current focus should be Baylor. Then we focus on the bowl game and locking down this 2012 class that is shaping up very nicely. There is nothing from the administrative side of things in the past 15 years that should leave people concerned about the direction of the program. We all know we’ve missed on some recruits and some development. Much of that was addressed via coaching changes. Take a look at the different strategies being employed this year as opposed to previous years. Certainly recent QB struggles are the closest thing in the rear-view mirror which magnifies the intensity. What coach doesn’t feel better with VY or Colt at the helm? News flash, there will be good to great QB play at Texas again. Hopefully soon but it will happen.

Texas is the best run athletic program in the country. It’s not even close. Think about that. Enjoy it. Celebrate it. and most importantly….get your horns up!

I believe the theory linking Petersen’s job status to his child’s medical condition has been debunked. The child had an illness and if I’m not mistaken has completely recovered.

a bunch of bull. you’re just trying to get attention.

Jesus Shuttlesworth said: December 2nd, 2011 at 8:37 am

Again, Mack’s not going anywhere this year unless something crazy goes down. The 2012 class will remain intact and it’s a great one–perhaps the best ever under Mack. The takeaway from all of this is that Mack Brown is not the type to leave a program high and dry, and that’s one of the characteristics that has helped make him a Texas legend.

I think you would agree with this based on your question about QB recruiting but, to an extent, Mack already did leave the program high and dry. Hence, why we’re going through so much now.

A lot of sins were covered up b/c Mack struck gold with Colt but in reality Mack really started coasting after the 2005 NC. Now, as you’ve alluded to, he doesn’t have it in him to rebuild a program anymore. If that is true than it is the responsibility of those above him to do what’s best for the program. If that means bringing in Petersen or someone else in now then do it.

You have to know when to hold ’em and know when to fold ’em. Even if it is a legend, ask Penn State and Florida State.

Big duke: If his energy level and desire are being accurately portrayed, then I think it at least illuminates some things.

But let’s say you’re right, and it’s merely about personal pride and loyalty to the program, rather than any concern about succession. Are you comfortable with Mack making that decision if he really doesn’t think he has the go-power to do it anymore? Because if he DOES have full confidence in Petersen to right the ship, WHATEVER state it’s in when he hangs ‘em up, then what is he really staying for? Just legacy and pride? Is that good? I’m really asking, I dont know the answer. Is that a good thing?

After reading through the comments, I just have a few observations/opinions.

As to the question of whether or not Diaz is happy here, you can directly compare the body language, tone, and comments made during press conferences between Muschamp last year, who we knew was exasperated, and Diaz this year. Diaz always seem positive and upbeat. He doesn’t say anything at all to throw the offense under the bus, he says very positive things about the players, and he maintains an upbeat tone and body language. I think he’s pretty happy. Look at all the talent he has to work with on defense. How could he not feel like a kid in a candy shop?

“I hope he sees it through 2013, which is the next time we have a chance to be nationally relevant.”

Que? Not a Johnathan Gray fan?

It seems like everybody of this thread is forgetting the heart of the issue. If a QB emerges then none of this talk is happening. No Peterson chatter, no HCIW, or contigency plans. This is about finding a signal caller and Mack will be loving his job again because he has the assistant coaches in place to contend for ships in the next year+. Maybe Bennie gets hold of Case in the offseason and he puts on 25 lbs of muscle. Maybe Ash figures out how to read a defense. Remember, before 2008 there was talk of Chiles getting his shot at QB. With Brown, bergeron, and gray healthy next year we’ll be a potent offense inspite of the QB.

Are we that sure about Petersen? I have no problem if we are, I’m just asking the question.

Great question … two Boise State head coaches with similar records (not quite) left for bigger better conferences/teams the past decade and neither could rekindle the magic.

Dirk Koetter was 20-5 has last two years at BSU with a reputation as a passing game genius. Went to Arizona State in 2001 where he coached six years. Two best years were 8-6 and 9-3 but overall his conference record was just 21-28. He had a 1–11 record against top 10 teams, and was 2–19 against ranked teams.

He was fired after a poorly handled QB controversy that makes UT’s look tame, and after two of his best players got into SERIOUS problems with the law (Fright Night Freedman currently doing 80 years for rape, Loren Wade currently doing 16-22 years for 2nd degree murder after shooting a teammate in the head for talking to his girlfriend).

Dan Hawkins was the 2nd Boise coach to hit the big time, after a three year stretch where he was 36-3 and proclaimed a genius for his offenses. You all know how that turned out at Colorado, where he went 19-39 and never had a winning season.

Here’s hoping Petersen can recruit Texas, can handle the off-field pressures of running such a big program, and can duplicate his success. Obviously he’d be inheriting a much better program than ASU or CU. But it’s not a sure thing that he’d duplicate his Boise success.

Why is everyone sold on Peterson? #1 can he recruit? #2 can he schmooze like the texas fans expect? Can he win consistently against upper tier division 1 athletes? These are all unknowns. We knew what we were getting in MB when he was hired.

Great points, desert! I would like Peterson to go to UCLA to prove his worth. Mack Brown did so at North Carolina.

I don’t understand about Diaz….Looking back we have had a solid defense for many years now. Chizik and Muschamp….It makes me wonder if its the coaches are benefitting from great players the Defensive coordinator really only coaches the line and linebackers because Akina is gold!!! We get the cream of the crop on recruits and we have been doing a great job since Mack has been in tenure of converting recruits into Defensive Jaugernauts. I understand that the coordinator gets alot of the credit but is it that hard at Texas to create diamonds when you are handed diamonds. Believe it or not I am a Diaz fan but leaving is absolutely out of the question and when he looks in the mirror he should see the same thing

Saban was HC for…
5 years at Mich St
5 years at LSU
5 years at Bama

See a pattern? Texas should hire him Sat. Give him a % of LHN revenues.

He will own Stoops. We will win multi MNCs and win one within two years.

Com’on Mack…Man up ! We and you need two more years……..Let Diaz and Harsinwhite shoulder the bulk of the stress. Find a juco QB and lets go.
Saban is your age …..Com’on !
Hook Em’

Nothing happens for the next two seasons. I am pretty sure that Diaz and Harsin essentially agreed to stay at least 3 years and I think Mack will stay as well.

I think Mack retires after the next two seasons and at that point we get Petersen to come in and take over.

I was looking at a photo of Mack last night from the Michigan Rose Bowl game. He looks 15 years younger.

That being said, he has some good momentum going right now and with better qb play this team wins 9 games this season. The turn around is there except for that position along. Perhaps Mack feels he has “righted” the ship and it is going in a good direction. Who knows, but I hope he sticks around for another year to find out. He has be great for Texas.

Chris: we had a nice, long tradition of uninspiring play at the linebacker position before Muschamp took over that department and we had a few uninspiring years of defense as well.

I agree that Akina has been a big part of our success but being the defensive coordinator of any Big 12 team is not an easy job. Diaz has pretty significant value over most replacements.

Why would Wood transfer back? Can he win the job from Ash and Case? Is he much better than Ash/Case? I thought he was dead last on the depth chart, no?

great stuff. kinda depressing. love mack.. warts and all.

gut feeling on it is that we need to keep diaz, sure…absolutely, but the rest of the staff is so good as well. i really don’t want to us to lose harsin, wyatt, davis, searels, major, wylie, giles, rucker, etc etc. i like all of those guys. they all came or stayed to build something and are laying the ground work w/ an energy that’s obviously been missing for awhile. they’ve been making hay on the recruiting trail and coaching their asses off.

what we’re building right now is awesome. the plan that’s been in motion this year has been outstanding and it’d be a bummer to see it come off the rails this early.

“The powers that be, Bill Powers, Deloss, IMG, and some influential boosters have asked that they sit down with Mack at the end of the season and talk about an ETA on winning big again and then an exit strategy. They’re going to ask when Mack will win again and then ask about a time horizon. … Based on what I’ve heard, Mack will probably tell the Powers-that-be the truth, which is that he’s tired and he doesn’t have a near term solution at QB.”

Stop right there. Everything that comes after pertains to Mack’s current motivations and how certain contingencies may affect the timing of all this, which, on the face of it, seem secondary in importance to this meeting. If (1) my boss requests a sit-down, lays out certain (demanding) criteria of success, and asks me to commit to a (short) timetable for meeting or exceeding such criteria and (2) I unequivocally state that I am unable to do so … we clearly have a problem.

Of course, I haven’t done as much for my workplace as Mack has for his, so we’re not talking about anyone being forced out. But especially given the possibility (eventuality?) of Petersen, whose transition would be about smooth as an external hire’s could be, Mack may have to face the possibility that the best thing for Texas football may be to let someone else “right the ship.” In any case, it reads to me like the timetable could get accelerated sooner rather than later.

My general feeling is that however traumatizing accelerated transition can be, prolonged uncertainty and speculation can be more damaging. Given the failed HCIW designation and Mack’s age, no one believes he is going to be here for another 10 years. Thus, a certain amount of speculation is inevitable. But if he wants a couple more years to “right the ship,” I think he deserves it, and given our internally understood transition plan, I think we can afford it. But unless he wants to coach amid constant speculation about his imminent retirement, he’d better be ready to look the part.

Mike +1

Syd,

All coaches give Mack an informal 3 year commitment, but work on year to year contracts. And to my knowledge, Mack has always made it clear that his coaches are more than free to leave for promotions. If one of his assistants gets a chance to take a HC gig, they will take it with his blessing. Mack only stayed at OU for one year before taking the HC job at Tulane.

If Manny is as hot of commodity as it seems like he might be, and he gets a shot at the UCLA, Tennessee (assuming it opens), or Mississippi State (again, assuming it opens), I would be very surprised if he didn’t take it.

Syd, I think you misread. The sentence restated would say, “Back in the summer, I told you Connor would transfer…”

Groundhog, we know Peterson can run a successful program at a place with a ton of natural disadvantages, while staying so clean that the best dirt anyone can dig up is a recruit slept on a players couch or something.

Best option is Mack stays two more years and Ash becomes a serviceable QB.
Next best is Peterson comes in but keeps staff mostly intact — everyone on defense, Major and Searels and Harsin on offense.

Worrying that Peterson is the next Koetter/Hawkins is natural, but not an apples to apples comparison. See my post above.

I googled Petersen and was very impressed with his background. I think I’d be fine with that choice when the day comes.

Would you rather that people not understand what’s going on rather than have a radio guy from Topeka stand by his tweet?

The effect is the same, in terms of rumors being used against Texas, regardless of whether UT denies it.

ESPN will be the ones who decide whether Mack stays or goes, not Deloss or Powers or $ alumni.

My question about Mr. Peterson is can he recruit like the Macksteer? I don’t think that he has a history of big recruiting in Texas and Boise is not the (University of Texas). Mack Brown has been great as the leader of our University’s football team and the face of Texas football. I just don’t want to be doing the John Mackovic with an coach that may be great, but don’t understand the dynamics of Texas so lets be careful before we leap!

This is all a bunch of BULLSHIT.

There is no big cigar.

It is all a bunch of crap.

Pertersen will never be the HC at Texas.

This is all so dumb.

R.I.P. The Supreme Commander Mike F’ing Sherman

ESPN will have about as much of a say on when Mack leaves as this message board will. Take off your tinfoil hat.

What about that coach up the road in Waco; talk about having the inside relationship in Texas High school’s. And he’s done nothing but win!!!!!

Bobby Burton just said he thinks there is less than a 1% chance Petersen is the next coach at UT.

I think everyone has their sources on this stuff, and I think JS has some really good ones. But I think the only people who have any idea of what is going on with Mack and any succession plans are Deloss, Powers, and Mack. And throughout the coaching search last year, realignment plans, etc. they have all proven to be exceptionally good at leaking absolutely nothing. Unlike Aggy, it seems like any really big decisions made by UT are kept pretty well mum.

Appreciate the work. I’m a little surprised by the notion that the staff thought they could rebuild Gilbert. Hard to see how that was true, especially when they threw him out there against BYU with lesser personnel and asked him to make a bunch of plays in the first handful of series. Think things could of been different had they been able to maximize the personnel (swap Fozzie for Brown or Bergeron, insert DJ on the jet sweep) around him. Regardless, program in the right direction, just hope the guys still around can take a huge step in the bowl practices and during the spring and summer heading into next season.

Jesus- you keep doing exactly what you do. I would have kicked GM Platter the hell out of G/M Steakhouse back in the day like the I did the other loudmouth fratboys.

Thanks Jesus, most of us are quite appreciative of your efforts here.

I am as loyal to Mack as they come but I personally feel like he can suck it up a little bit and muster up some energy. There is still a lot of hope and potential a few years down the road for this team and he should know that.

syd, why so vicious?

il cattivo -

I believe the theory linking Petersen’s job status to his child’s medical condition has been debunked. The child had an illness and if I’m not mistaken has completely recovered.

This: http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/story/Chris-Petersen-a-good-match-for-Boise-State-092310

confirms what you’ve written.

Doctors removed Sam’s tumor, but further tests showed that the cancer had spread to his spine. For months, Petersen balanced coaching with spending time with his son at the hospital.

"When you experience something like that, it changes you forever," Osborne says.

Sam is now healthy, but Petersen hasn’t forgotten the perspective his son’s illness provided him.

Juice,

I agree with you in that the LHN is not exactly welcome by everyone on The Forty Acres.

A friend from college works for an NFL team that has been on HBO’s Hard Knocks. Interesting to talk with him about it. In the beginning of the shooting it is cool and all, but over time it really started to wear on the organization because of the lack of privacy. We all may wish for the exposure and money, but when you have to be cautious all the time about how you come across at work because of what might be seen on television he said it really, really got tiring.

The LHN is Hard Knocks on steroids. It isn’t going away and I truly believe it is something that is going to require some special skills and endurance from the next head man.

Saban coming to UT – Nick is 60, is king of the freaking South at Alabama and is paid as well as anyone. Besides the network what does Texas truly offer him that he doesn’t have where he is now?

Recruiting? Hell he can go anywhere in the Deep South, up the Atlantic Coast, over to Texas, and go Juco with no issues from the admin dept.

Support? Anyone notice the attendance at their spring game? Anyone travel through that area in the winter and spring and here the discussion on the radio about the competition for the back-up quarterback spot?

Tradition? Yeah, get back to me on that one.

Facilities? Push.

Ease of Getting to the BCS game? This is the only thing I can think of and that is based upon the current Big XII configuration. Who knows what that situation will be in 5-6 years.

The guy is 60, kicking ass at Alabama, getting paid, and in a few years can walk away wealthy and the second best coach in their history.

Briles? Please, who started this rumor about him being loved by the high school coaches. Go talk to some of the coaches who played against him at Stephenville. They really love and respect the guy.

Chris Peterson has won exactly one less BCS game in his 6 year’s at Boise State compared to Mack’s 14 years at Texas. And Chris Peterson did that with Boise State talent.

ESPN pays us $300 million for LHN. We post 5-8 wins per season and can’t get AT&T or TW to carry it. Anyone who thinks ESPN is going to sit there and shell out cash without influencing HC decision is either under the age of 25—-or unintelligent.

“This stuff shouldn’t be posted. It could hurt the team and recruiting”

Hogwash!

This is exactly what needs to be posted. The festering boil of Mack’s lethargy is why we had to endure last season’s wake-up call. The sooner it is lanced, the sooner we heal. It is why most seasons of his tenure we have been out of contention for a Big 12 championship much less a Natty Championship after the OU game. He might be able to recruit, but the path of least resistance dictates glorifying the 10-win season over winning championships.

They say that admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery. OK. Mack’s energy level, despite being found lacking here and elsewhere for years, is now officially a problem. A waning program under a tired HC is incompatible with the ambitions of the LHN. Since our future as a program has been hedged on the LHN, the suits are finally noticing the importance of championships.

Mack’s recruiting is the stuff of legend, but über-talent is the drug of choice for the lazy HC content with kum ba yah 10-win seasons without trophys.

HC energy levels are contagious — high or low. Big energy can make the weak strong. Low energy can… well… we only know too well..

We hear every year how talented our recruiting class will be next year only to be hit with another case of underperformance. If this one truly is the best, why do we want to infect it with Mack syndrome. The best use of Mack’s recruiting skills is to get this great recruiting class in the door and let a new HC with testosterone turn it into a juggernaut.

We can’t afford to tread water while Mack looks for something he never had. The time is now for new blood. Another year or two of treading water does irreparable damage to the team, staff, LHN, and program overall.

1776,

Anyone who thinks Deloss and Powers are going to take their marching orders from Bristol is crazy. The contract is signed. The University doesn’t have to do a damned thing to get the money.

ESPN can try to influence all they want, doesn’t mean it will work. It would be about as useful as Deloss calling them to lobby them to lower their carriage fees.

JS: Could we get an update about LHN, it’s overall effect on players/coaching staff, how they feel about it, what influence ESPN has or is expected to have in the future with regard to athletics staff? And maybe where some campus people think we are on carriage negotiations?

I think most of the “ESPN will play a role in coaching decisions” is bunk, but I’d like to hear an authoritative source say so.

To clarify my earlier point, I think Mack deserves to have as long as he wants, so long as he’s got the drive and energy to do it. But if HE’S saying he’s wiped out and may not have it, then some serious discussion would be in order.

" . . . and that’s what makes him a longhorn legend"

My main man, with those words, you let slip the mask. Should I call you Jesus S., or do you prefer Bill Little?

Anytime you agree to take/accept/contract for/borrow/count on huge chunks of $$$ from someone else, you automatically give them enormous power over you. Does this really need to explained—seriously?

http://youtu.be/06DbDR_cJ9I

Anytime I hear comments about getting in business with the wrong people I think of this movie.

1776: I don’t really have a problem with somebody at ESPN giving Dodds a call and saying,“You should hire (blank).” The only worry is if you add, “…or we’re gonna walk away from the LHN contract.”

Now, what would be ESPN’s rationale for walking away? Too much money for too little exposure? THEYRE in charge of carriage negotiations! And if ESPN walks, we still have the facilities and the infrastructure to simply do it ourselves. Maybe we won’t make 15 Mil a year doing so, but we wouldn’t be splitting anything with ESPN either.

So where exactly is ESPN’s leverage?

I’m not sure 1776 actually understands how contracts work.

1776 -

Sure does. What is ESPN’s remedy here? Does their LHN contract give them any say in coaching/staff matters in any Longhorn sports? Are they guaranteed an average number of wins over a set number of seasons? Can the contract or amount due to the University be modified or nullified based on either on-field performance or staffing decisions? Do they think it would be wise, prudent or in the best interests of a long-term partnership that they’ve certainly put a high value on to barge in and try to tell Powers, Dodds, etc. how to handle their business? Who at ESPN has decided that 5-8 win seasons are Texas’ destiny going forward based on analysis of all aspects of the program?

1776- Agree

good to find another functional retard made his way in…atta boy, jxr

Do you even know who owns ESPN? Or who’s on ESPN’s parent company’s board of directors? And what businesses these directors have power over? And what other companies, including media companies, this parent company owns? And how these other companies affect UT and various businesses that our Big Cigars own and are invested in?

If you think these folks are going to sit back and let Deloss and Mack determine ESPN’s return on their $300 million investment, you must’ve gone to A&M if you’re over 25. If you’re under 25, you get a world naivete pass.

Great article by JS, sounds completely credible. Mack should do what is good for Mack and forget about legacy. He should enjoy life, enjoy his family, including those grandkids. Travel, let Petersen do the rebuilding. I’m about Mack’s age and understand how difficult it is to do an all consuming management job as you get older and your energy starts to wain a bit. You want to do a great job but it is simply too exhausting. BTW, Mack’s legacy is secure. We were wandering in the desert for decades before Mack restored Texas football, Mack is a Texas hero forever.

Mack is right about the QBs, UT was screwed as soon as Gilbert decided to transfer. It was reasonable to hope that Harsin could fix Gilbert but that did not happen. Case’s high end is to be a mediocre div 1 QB and he is not certain to even hit that level. Ash seems to have gone backward recently and there is some fear that this season may have damaged him psychologically. Making Brewer play as a true frosh seems criminally negligent and a repetition of a vicious cycle. Texas could speed up the cycle by going the dual purpose QB route. We should have had a dual purpose QB (or two) prepared for this season (such as Mykk), it would have made a huge difference.

Diaz is probably gone. He will get a good opportunity and he should take it. He is a good looking, mature, well spoken, smart guy. He is Hispanic and that will make hiring him that much easier (there are relatively few minority div 1 head coaches).

Major is not going to be a head coach at Texas until he has successfully head coached somewhere else. Realistically, he probably has to be a successful bona fide OC somewhere before he will get hired as a head coach. The endgame in Bama did not help his career.

1776 should change his name to 1984

It seems that this article and the responses are focused on Mack’s plans. I kind of thought he was waiting for DeLoss’ retirement plans. That way, DeLoss rides off into the sunset having created the LHN. Brown moves to AD and basically names his successor.

Forget about Brown, Harsin, and Diaz, what is Dodds’ exit strategy?

Well said, Kafka.

$5 million a year isn’t so much when you have made that more than ten years already. I can understand Mack being tired and would not blame him if he left. I think it is very important to keep Diaz but I don’t see why Diaz wouldn’t be happy under Petersen, especially with the raise he will get this year.

Becoming a head coach is a big shift from coordinator. Both Harsin and Diaz should be learning a lot this year (as is Applewhite). This staff seems to be working well together. I don’t see why it can’t continue to do so for the next couple of years under Mack or Petersen.

Ok 1776, I’ll bite. What does ESPN want us to do, right now? Who’s their dream candidate? Should Mack be allowed to decide himself, or forced out?

And while you’re at it, tell us about the Disney board, and how much they control, and how they’re going to lord it over all the UT Big Cigars. More details, please.

1776:

You are looking at this almost exactly backward.

You make it sound like Texas wouldn’t have an athletic department if it weren’t for ESPN. The entire payment from ESPN (some of which goes to IMG and not UT) is about 15 percent of the budget. The athletic department is kicking almost half of this year’s share back to the school for academics. They don’t need the money!

If there were that kind of conflict, and ESPN wanted out, Texas would say fine, thank you for your help, and go knock on Fox’s door. If Fox said no, they’d do it themselves.

What ESPN wanted (and, frankly, overpaid for) was a seat on the bandwagon of the biggest, baddest college athletic department in the country. Sure, it’s at the front of the bandwagon, next to the driver. They may have the map. But they’re not telling the driver where to go.

IF YOU DON’T HIRE WHO I SAY TO THEN…WELL…REMEMBER BAMBI’S MOM?

Not sold on Petersen. That seems like a reach hire and there is no reason to take a chance. Believe me Urban will leave tOSU for the Texas job. We need a proven winner at the big time level. Thats who will take us to dynasty mode.

I know I am in the minority, but I am not very high on the hiring of Chris Petersen. I would rather have a defensive minded coach who is from the South or has experience coaching in the South, someone who can understand the football culture down here and can relate to the kids and who the kids can relate too. Regardless of how good of a coach Chris Petersen is, he does not seem to be a good fit here. Besides, I can’t think of too many coaches from Boise that have moved on to bigger programs and have had the same level of success. I honestly hope Diaz stays around for a few more years, does well, and gets a look.

Agree w/ Nick, Kafka. Well said.

Thought of your comments earlier in the week while reading the Assets reports regarding Ash.

Hope Ash gets back on track mentally, if that’s the case. I think he would’ve have benefited greatly had he red-shirted, or played behind a productive to good qb his first year or two. Can’t help but think that Colt red-shirting behind Vince during our NC year did him wonders for his first year, something I think people seem to overlook when trying to compare Ash as a freshman to Colt as a redshirt freshman.

I can deal with Petersen, but I WOULD like a decision-maker to explain the rationale. I love his X’s and O’s, but recruitment, ability to be the face of a major program with a large media market… These are all unknowns. Do the Big Cigars have ideas about why those aren’t question marks?

Hawkins is to Peterson what Francione is to Patterson

Is Deloss “tired?”

I’ve resigned to the notion that Case will start next year while Brewer red shirts. Ugh.

I think we get one more year out of Mack at best, its a mess on some level. We need an energized HC, not Bobby Bowdin in waiting.

Its amazing what the QB miss has done to the teams competitveness.

“With all the QB talk, why not line up in the bone? "

The wishbone is an entirely different offense from the one we run. Its one thing to run a half assed option play every now and then to catch the defense off guard. It’s another thing entirely to run option for an entire game. The option is extremely hard to run well—it needs to be practiced extensively. The quarterback needs to read the defense quickly at multiple points on each play. The line has to know their blocking assignments, which change constantly in a well run option scheme so that the defense can’t simply play “assignment football” If you watch Paul Johnson’s offense or Air Force, it’s pretty impressive (neither of which run “the bone” anymore, but they are probably the next closest thing). .

Switching to the wishbone with one week left in the season would be a disaster. I really hate it when people bring this up like the option is simply run left and pitch or run right and keep. You have no idea how complicated college offenses are if you think this is an actual possibility.

TXPride, thanks. I think to some extent, this plays into Mack’s thoughts about the QB position. No question the coaches would like the opportunity to redshirt Brewer next year, but without significant improvement from Ash and McCoy, we’re a one dimensional offense, and that’s problematic.

Whereas playing Brewer significantly essentially subjects him to the same risks we’ve experienced with GG and Ash. Other posters have rightly pointed out that this could be the start of a vicious cycle at the QB position.

I don’t know what the answer is. A coaching change doesn’t fix it, so I think Mack just has to decide how much gas he’s got in the tank. Whatever his honest self-assessment is, we’ll deal.

Just got word the Aggies offered Darrel Royal 8.5 mil a year for 10 years.

FTW but in all reality, none of us know what will happen. If Mack goes, then we will bring in somebody more than capable of winning big. What they do when they get here is anybody’s guess.

Diaz is a must keep! Do I think he leaves? doubtful because his attitude is less about ego and more about loving the game. I think he knows he has a good deal here right now and will get paid. I would be more worried about Harsin honestly.

Mack is a good man with good intentions. I think he is honest with the administration and their decisions will be made behind closed doors for the benefit of the program. I appreciate what JS does because the write ups are redacted enough to put down negativity and allow for a positive outlook. Too many people read way too much into things sometimes (myself included but I just don’t post on those thoughts). Peterson would be a good hire but I also don’t get paid a shit ton of money to make those decisions. Either way, I will be sitting in my season ticket seats by the visitors every year and giving them shit right back when they dish it out (no matter who is coaching). BTW, KState fans were really annoying this year…wtf is up with that?

ESPN will be holding a news conference Sunday afternoon to announce Ryan Seacrest as Mack’s successor.

Also, they have changed the logo from a longhorn, to George Stephanopoulos. Effective immediately.

Those worried about Peterson and recruiting are a little over-anxious, I think. Texas recruits itself. You basically have to not be an arrogant jerk to high school coaches and you’ll get yours. Everything I’ve seen from Peterson suggests a humble, likeable sort that could do well in recruiting, as long as the game is not SEC-style shenanigans.

@Roach, seeing how CSFV mentioned Gray in his bone comment, I think he is insinuating employing it in 2012. Seeing as we can’t field a decent passing QB, I have also raised this question on other posts and agree with him 100%.

This is going to be a mess no matter what happens, unfortunately. Maybe not this year, maybe not next, but sooner or later, it will be. How bad is yet to be determined.

As much as I love all 3 of them, Mack, Diaz, and Harsin need to do what is best for themselves. These are their livelihoods.

My biggest concern with Petersen, and it was touched on earlier up there, is how he will handle the scrutiny here. I think Pat Forde mentioned that he was meeting with him and Petersen looked uncomfortable in a somewhat causal setting being asked questions by just 2 people (Forde and 1 other, unnamed). Not a good sign for the future UT head man.

The comparison between Hawkins could only have been made had Hawkins come to Texas and failed. Texas has much better resources and recruiting leverage than Colorado. Even then, it’s a stretch.

So you are saying Akers, McWilliams and Makovic were all arrogant jerks? I’ll give you one of three.

From what I hear from the older Horns, the “Texas recruits itself” bit was exactly the issue with Akers.

I guess DKR didn’t actually have to go to Earl Campbell’s house and win over his mom.

Thanks, JS, much appreciated. I know you have to try to walk a very fine line between sharing what you know truthfully vs. sharing but redacting, vs. withholding info altogether. It’s a journalistic challenge of the highest order (at least as far as Texas football is concerned). Fortunately, it’s not like you’ll get an undercover spy in Iran executed.

It’s good to know that a general action plan re Mack’s succession is in place (subject to many changing variables, of course). Diaz is da man, and if it’s money he wants, money he should gets. Someone will give an HC offer sooner or later, but hopefully Manny sees the value of establishing his work over a multi-year period at Texas (versus jumping at the first HC offer and paycheck that is dangled in front of him). It would be best if Mack and the rest of our coaching staff stayed another year or two, to at least win another BCS bowl (assuming that we won’t be MNC ready in that time).

The biggest question and unknown is the impact of the Longhorn Network. We know that Mack spends a lot of time with Lowell and Samantha and the rest of the LHN crew, which obviously drains lots of time away from his little coaching hobby (and eating, sleeping, time with family and friends, vacations, and all those other time-killing things that normal people engage in). Being the HC of Texas football is pressure enough, but having to feed the LHN beast takes time demands to another level that no other coach in America (including Saban, Stoops, Miles, etc.) has to deal with. Perhaps someone could give Mack some Border Collie puppies to house/train… he obviously isn’t spending enough time [doing a good job of] coaching, so he must have a lot free time on his hands. :sarcasm:

Not sure if it’s by coincidence or not, but both Diaz and Harsin were good hires not only for the football side of Texas, but for the LHN. Aside from being a hip-looking dude, Diaz seemed very open and comfortable on camera with Samantha, even after losses. I have a hard time picturing Boom being as congenial. Same goes for our OC; it’s hard to imagine what a snooze fest it would be to see (former) Greg Davis doing interviews with the LHN team. So in essence, all of our major coaching hires now have to be evaluated in light of their LHN suitability as well as X’s and O’s and recruiting ability. Hopefully DeLoss and Bellmont thought of this in advance, lest Texas football suffer the law of unintended consequences (losing out on, or having to pass over, great coaches who don’t want to feed the LHN beast).

Deloss wanted Gary Barnett, not Mack. But some Big Cigars (incl Hicks, Robertson) grabbed DKR and told the Kansas St track coach how it’s gonna be.

Same is true today, except count ESPN as one (but not the only one) of our Big Cigars.

The valleys are too low and the mountains are too high it seems.

Saint Darrell ascended considerably younger than Avuncular Mack, and IIRC he said at the time that the thrill of victory was no longer enough to overcome the agony of defeat… or words to that effect. Sounds as though A.N. “Mack” Brown may have reached that stage.

Just reached that point in the original – apologizes if previously quoted.

FYI…Cayleb Jones just tweeted that Kendall Sanders is a horn.

Hornsup, that’s a nice point. Again, I don’t have a problem with listening to what ESPN has to say, as one in a multitude of voices. It’s not like ESPN has any incentive to wish us ill, so the advice should at least be well-intended. That’s a far cry from the kind of control 1776 seems so worked up about.

Tex Long -

It’s been touched on, but this comment thread was really languishing without your trademarked A.N. “Mack” Brown entry. Thanks for hustling to get that to us.

Orangeblood79 -

This makes me happy. In my pants.

TexanNick, TxPride: many thanks.

Dealing with the demands of the LHN is certainly a pain in the ass from a HC’s perspective. Very time consuming, very demanding in communications skills for the whole Texas staff and a relentless threat of revealing any dirty laundry there might be in the program.

ESPN does have a lot of leverage over Texas. They will learn an amazing amount about the internals of the Texas program. If they want to get rid of a coach, they can easily distribute fact based stories that are not flattering to that coach. If you are deeply partnered with somebody, you have to listen to them and address their concerns in a way that convinces them that you are really interested in and care about what they are saying.

The LHN is a profound experiment for both Texas and ESPN and nobody knows exactly how it is going to unfold.

Deloss was a relatively inexperienced AD who had done nothing to give him the authority to stand up to the Cigars when Mack was hired. In fact, he was on a string of bad hires in other sports, and had Mack not succeeded, Deloss is in all likelihood looking for a job years ago.

Since Mack came on board and the program has had a prolonged period of success, Deloss has gradually shoved the cigars and boosters further away from the program. Remember, it was not that long ago that the booster clubs decided on annual bonuses for the coaches. There have been a lot of changes in the past 15 years or so.

Look, nobody is saying that the big money folks are not going to get a say in this. I am quite sure Deloss and Powers will discuss the job when it opens with those that they feel need to believe they are in the loop – but at the end of the day, I don’t think Powers or Dodds are going to get steamrolled by anyone.

This is not 1998.

Kafka and Big Ern, well said, both.

I should not have said Dodds was “inexperienced” when Mack was hired. But I don’t think he had accumulated nearly the level of power and authority that he has now.

This LHN discussion brings me back to something I wondered earlier. Big Cigar cited LHN commitments as one of the sources of Mack’s energy drain. Is there nothing that can alleviate those commitments for the foreseeable future? Just strikes me as a ridiculous expenditure of a finite resource, since it’s only in front of a few eyeballs anyway.

We gotta keep Major Applewhite.

Burntorangejuice: Gray does not play QB.
Davey: re:LHN, exactly. Exhausting, relentless. And phony.

With respect to Dodds’ departure . . . Plonsky succeeds him, branding, marketing and general commercialism intrude even more, OU game moves to JerryWorld, and I save a lot of money not going to games.

Bobby Burton just said he thinks there is less than a 1% chance Petersen is the next coach at UT.

Big Ern, you’re a damn good poster but with all due respect, SO? This is the same guy that said there was very little tension in the lockerroom last year as a way to discredit JS.

A guy that discussed Will Lyles only after the news was brought to light by every other news entity even though he knew Lyles was dirty for years.

I’m pretty sure that Flat Earther also decried computers as nothing more than a trend back in the 80’s.

That dude’s a joke.

Just my opinion, but I think those who believe Mack will likely before his contract is up are naive. The guy is making $5.3M next year with $100K increase every year until 2016. He may leave before 2016 but it will take a buyout make no mistake about it. He is going to the bank as long as he can. I would like one more year out of him but things could get interesting if he decides to hold on. Maybe Deloss didnt sign the extension ;)

I think this is why rebuilding a program requires new blood. Someone is normally fired for the cause of it. When has a person who has been responisble for the rebuilding ever allowed to stay on? I just don’t see it. No way. It requires new mindset from the top down.

Remember the Alabama QB that beat Texas in the National Championship game a couple of years ago? He was not a great quarterback by any definition of the position. His job was not to LOSE the game – just keep handing off to those two All-American running backs getting big gains through that huge, experienced line.

And what will we have next year? An experienced line, great running backs, and someone behind center. Who says we can’t emulate Alabama’s success with next year’s team? We don’t have to throw the ball 30 times a game!

I know what Mack is going through with the losses – some people have a hard time letting go of disappointments. But even he can see what kind of team we can be next year – and that a great QB would be icing on the cake, but not an absolute necessity. He will be here at least another year!

When/after Mack retires (hopefully not for another 2 years), he would make an ideal liaison/ambassador between LHN and the new head coach (and his staff). Mack would/could serve as the knowledgeable surrogate for Chris Peterson (or whoever the new HC is) for most LHN shows and segments, and let the new HC handle just post-game interviews and the Monday recap with Lowell Galindo. Mack’s liaison position would allow the new HC to focus on coaching while giving Mack a much lighter and more pleasant work load handling media relations which Mack is good at (and is still important/vital for the LHN’s success).

magnus,

should have said in that post that i don’t buy into Burton (which I don’t). i like their site because of Gerry Hamilton, but generally think that Burton is a blowhard. but i do think he talks to a lot of people that are close to the program and generally has pretty good sources on stuff. his opinions are worthless, but his reporting is generally pretty good, imo.

what i was trying to say in the post was that everyone with sources on the whole Mack retirement / replacement thing are hearing different things and that nobody is probably right, because i am not buying that anyone outside of mack, dodds and powers have any idea what the actual situation is – and those guys are generally pretty damn good at not leaking anything they don’t want leaked.

Lets not compare ourselves to 2009 Alabama. That is totally ludacris.

Poofy, that’s a really good idea. +1

“Lets not compare ourselves to 2009 Alabama. That is totally ludacris.”

If our coaching staff remains intact for another 2 years, it’s not hard to see the 2013 Texas Longhorns (with juniors Shipley, MB, Bergeron and sophomore Gray) with a potent offense and a stifling defense not unlike 2009 Alabama. By then, a senior Case McCoy or junior David Ash (or Brewer or Overstreet or whoever) should be a very decent if not outright good QB, and it’s not unreasonable to think Texas could be in the Top 5 ballpark again.

Of course, a million things can happen in the next 2 years, but the idea is hardly ludicrous.

JS writes an story shining some honest light on a rumor that is already in circulation, gives inside information that concludes that the only way these things happen is if it would be absolutely better for the program, and some people think this hurts recruiting how?

This is ridiculous.

Thanks for all you do, Shuttlesworth.

If you think these folks are going to sit back and let Deloss and Mack determine ESPN’s return on their $300 million investment, you must’ve gone to A&M if you’re over 25. If you’re under 25, you get a world naivete pass.

First of all $300 million over 20 years to ESPN is the equivalent of the pocket change I find under the cushions on my sofa. Secondly, as has been pointed out, we have a contract that pretty well defines what we are to deliver.

Last year’s record (or this year for that matter) has very little to do with ESPN’s battle with Time Warner over clearance for the LHN. That is a fight is over ESPN’s desire to set the bar so high at the begining, that when the LHN does take off, it can establish the going market for other like single-University networks that it may want to help get off the ground.

BTW this fight over clearance with the carriers is just a bump in the road long-term. ESPN is using the LHN as an experiment to see just where the future of multiple platforms will take it (especially live streaming to mobile units).

Now it is true that if we string together a few of these mediocre seasons, then it becomes an issue. But the fact remains that as bad as Notre Dame has been over the past 20 years, and as small as the ratings have been for NBC over the past 10 years, they are still making money off of the contract with the Fighting Irish.

It took over a year for the Big 10 Network to work out all the kinks in distribution but they are printing money for the league now. The LHN doesn’t fit the scale of the BTN, but it can be just as successful for UT and ESPN in its own way once it gets over the bumps and bruises of starting up.

“Burntorangejuice: Gray does not play QB.”

Juice, I’m not trying to start the Battle of the Juices here, but I in no way ever stated, implied, insinuated, or otherwise indicate that Johnathan Gray plays QB. He may actually play QB in the wildcat next year, though. My point was merely that despite the possibility of continued mediocrity at the QB position, Johnathan Gray might very well be a difference maker of the variety that could render above average QB play obsolete, especially when combined with messieurs Brown with Bergeron. See Alabama.

srr50,

so you are still saying that ESPN gets to pick our coach right?

PoofyBevo +1 re: Mack as LHN liason.

Well since we’re still talking about it, the next head coach should be Kirby Smart. He’s a Saban disciple with all the good, not the arrogance. Keep Major around as OC, highest paid OC in country. I think Mack/Peterson represent a dying break of country club CEO head coaches. The next waive of head coaches will be more detail oriented—previous coordinators. But it’s all for not, Mack will be here for a while longer. We’ll be having this exact same discussion December 2, 2012. ***Unless the Manny bolts. That’s the deal breaker, Mack has hired his last DC.

How many of you 60 year olds out there work 14 hours a day – 7 days a week? How many of you would continue to work like this even though you had all of the money you could spend, a beautiful house, a grand legacy, national noteriety and totally set up to do part time TV and write a book – just for pocket change and to keep your hand in the public view?

It’s one thing to be 40 years old and still full of spit and vinegar – quite another to, as DKR said, to consider “setting your bucket down”.

Furthermore – you want to win MNC championships on a regualr basis?
Harbough is the man – period!

I know most of you youngsters don’t notice things like this we were just talking about how much Mack has aged. Money isn’t always the final arbiture. When your on the high side of fifty priorities begin to change. At sixty your mortality becomes apparent. Mack’s looking older than he is and stressed. He’d be foolish to stay much longer.
I love the guy and wish him a few more decades.

Harbough is the man – period!

Jim Harbaugh is exactly where he has always wanted to be — and he is not going back to college.

I think an ambassador like role encompassing media relations, schmoozing with the boosters, general fundraising and involvement in sports or academic related capital initiatives is a fantastic role for Mack to slide into in the near future. I really think he could add value in that capacity.

I don’t think Mack would be a good fit as an AD. That is a serious job with serious demands. It would be like jumping from the frying pan to the fire.

If Mack is tired or ambivalent, and by all observable indications he is both, then he needs to execute an honorable exit strategy sooner rather than later and move on to being feted for his accomplishments – which are significant.

A head coach needs to set the overall tone and culture for the program through leading by example. Mack should be held accountable to a much greater degree than just not getting in the way and fucking up the coaching staff’s initiatives.

I think we dodged a bullet not bringing in Meyer. I believe that there are higher risk factors than acknowledged with Petersen, but bringing him on is a good bet. I still believe that Major should be prominent in the conversation. He’s got the brains, moxie and Longhorn karma to make it happen and should not be disregarded. If the exit schedule points to anytime beyond next year, I would love to see Applewhite ascend. I envision Camelot thereafter.

If we want Petersen, I think the time to act is now. Mack should get rid of Chambers and hire Petersen with whatever pay is required. Texas should have a written succession plan with Mack Brown stepping down at the end of next season and Petersen then stepping in as his replacement. Mack could handle it ego wise so the question is whether Petersen, Harsin, and Applewhite would be willing to deal with it for a year. If we are concerned about other coaches becoming jealous about pay, Petersen could come in at a lower pay and have the pay backloaded as a bonus when he takes over as head coach.

Jerry,

I see NO scenario where Petersen and Mack are on staff at the same time. You want him to downgrade from HC to position coach? And you expect Harsin, Diaz, and Applewhite to all wait around while this goes on, rather than consider other jobs?

Put me in the camp that would be delighted if Mack stays another 3 years, but if he retires on Monday and we hire Petersen, well … color me happy. This thought was hilarious:

“Applewhite named co-head coach/offensive coordinator”

I agree that Mack to AD just doesn’t sound like a job for him. I’m sure he would excel at it if he wanted to, but I’d rather have the stresses of coaching football than those of an AD. I don’t see him being on LHN commenting much about football— he wouldn’t want to be hovering over the actions of the new coach.

I hope he enjoys a season from a suite, shakes hands and offers whatever advice he wants in whatever capacity suits him. Maybe we can rename the monstrosity at the south end of the stadium after him: The Mackotron.

“Harbough is the man – period!

Jim Harbaugh is exactly where he has always wanted to be — and he is not going back to college."

You are oh so wrong about this. He will follow the money and the noteriety and UT is the best coaching job in the nation. He will get tired of the over paid prima donnas telling him to kiss their asses, whenever he tries to coach them.

Five million a year, a home in Austin, and the best coaching job in the union – yeah, right – he wouldn’t leave his present job.

By-the-way, how were you able to italicize my comment?

You are oh so wrong about this. He will follow the money and the noteriety and UT is the best coaching job in the nation. He will get tired of the over paid prima donnas telling him to kiss their asses, whenever he tries to coach them.

Jim Harbaugh is a coach’s son who has had the goal of coaching in the NFL (as did his brother). Harbaugh played in the league for 15 years, he fully understands overpaid prima donnas, and he values the actual coaching (and lack of recruiting) that he can do in the league. BTW — the money is just as good in the NFL for top coaches.

By-the-way, how were you able to italicize my comment?

I’m one of the bosses here — I can do damn near anything I want.

“I’m one of the bosses here — I can do damn near anything I want.”

Ha – remind me not to piss you off then.

I will bet you that Harbough doesn’t make 5M a year though. But you are right, some coaches don’t take to recruiting very well. However, recruiting for UT, as a head coach, can’t be more than just closing few deals your asst’s set up.

The only thing I don’t like about the piece is all the “if no injuries and transfers we’d have 10 wins” stuff. Come on man. Candies and nuts. Don’t give us that JV bullshit.

Snide Aside,
You really think that Harbaugh is going to leave the San Francisco 49ers and coach at Texas?

I hope you are joking.

A lot of responsibilities and pressures come with the Texas job. Most people would have trouble with that at some point or another. Just as I would urge Mack to try to keep a steady hand; I hope no one overreacts to such information.

The bottomline is that Texas has a lot of positives to offer individuals that counter the negatives that come with the spotlight. If a head coach or an assistant departs, there’s no university better positioned to attract and reward new applicants.

Snide Aside said: December 2nd, 2011 at 4:19 pm
“How many of you 60 year olds out there work 14 hours a day – 7 days a week? How many of you would continue to work like this even though you had all of the money you could spend, a beautiful house, a grand legacy, national noteriety and totally set up to do part time TV and write a book – just for pocket change and to keep your hand in the public view?

It’s one thing to be 40 years old and still full of spit and vinegar – quite another to, as DKR said, to consider "setting your bucket down".

Much truth in this post. Granted, we are all different but I see the point. I’m about Mack’s age and I was fortunate enough to retire very comfortably at 55. I was a career driven guy, an officer of a large company, and put it all into my career. One day I woke up and said “what the hell am I still doing this for?” The travel, the pressure, and the living away from Austin was not what I wanted any longer. Unlike me, Mack has also had some major surgery (knee replacement) and that gets you thinking more about quality of life. He also makes a lot more than I did! I can’t imagine him hanging on a lot longer than the end of next year. It would really surprise me but what do I know?

Wow, must’ve been a bad week. Never seen this much bitching on BC before.

3 points:
-JS, if you’ve made it down here, thank you for the article. Shouldn’t have to say that, but it hasn’t been said enough yet.

-Arizona State and Colorado are definitely not Texas. Sad truth is no one can predict how Petersen will do before he gets here. Which he will.

-Harbaugh to Texas is about as likely as John Madden to Texas. No one remembers that Stanford was prepared to offer close to $5 mil a year for him to stay, and I believe his current salary is somewhere around $4 mil, and it sure as shit isn’t getting any lower. Shame the timing wasn’t better; Harbaugh and Saban are the only two coaches worth kicking Mack to the curb for. The way both of them are coaching, they aren’t going anywhere.

I don’t understand the complainers. The observations about Mack have been apparent to anyone who follows the program so closely that they feel compelled to comment on these posts. These are not earth shattering revelations, and Jesus has been stating Petersen is the prime target for at least a year.

I think Mack retires after next season. Major will become the OC, and stick around long enough to get Petersen hooked into the Texas recruiting pipeline and to re-establish his bona fides as an OC. Diaz will stick around until after next season, and he’ll get a nice raise to do so. It’s flattering to be wanted by the MS schools, but those are not springboard jobs due to wildly inflated booster expectations. Mullen will be lucky to get out this year. Diaz will have better offers next year. Tennessee will be available. He’ll at least make the short list for Notre Dame, and could easily become the guy once Miles and Saban use ND for a salary bump. If Barkley and Kalil leave, then the USC job will be open next year too.

KB:

I agree with you that Petersen as the prime target isn’t really news. But the news that Mack may be thinking (and openly expressing) that he’s not sure he’s got the legs for the stretch run is. In fact, it’s in direct contravention of the “Mack is back in the saddle” meme that’s been reported all season.

And the fact that we could lose Diaz, Harsin, or both surely wasn’t expected at the beginning of the season. It’s worthy of discussion.

I don’t know what you guys are thinking. Peterson to A&M.

Aggies need a new coach for 2012. Texas does not! Mack will our coach in 2012. Every thing else smoke and rumor.

In other words, MACK AINT GOING ANYWHERE.

Thanks, JS, for giving us a fascinating inside look at our program both with this post and all season. I wasn’t really surprised at any single thing I read from paying close attention to what is already out there from multiple sources. However, El Cohiba’s succinct, coherent perspective in pulling it all together makes for a terrific read.

I think the worries about revealing this are over-blown. Certainly these sorts of factors (age, fatigue, young coaches attracting offers) are constant factors in all programs, not just ours. We are dealing with people here, not machines. I found it reassuring that, in contrast to A&M which seems to be run by impulse and emotion, the powers that be are taking a thoughtful approach to plotting the direction of the program. It isn’t an accident that we are where we are.

Though Mack isn’t perfect by any means, it is clear that he has been a huge net plus for our program. My hope is that he can muster the energy to complete this rebuilding project and go out the right way. In any case, leaving the program far stronger than it was when he got here seems assured. That is something that a lot of his more strident critics seem to forget.

Man, Sumlin is impressive as hell. If he goes Aggy I’m glad they are leaving. He’d be a great candidate to replace Mack.

It would be cool as shit for UT, one of the old-time greats, to have a badass African American coach. Probably crazier than our having POTUS!

“However, recruiting for UT, as a head coach, can’t be more than just closing few deals your asst’s set up.”

I think this is got us to where we were in 1997: build it and they will come. Not the way it works as we’re all learning right now. Build it and keeping building and never stop. All aspects of a head coaching gig at a front rank university require attention and effort. The job is not a sinecure. Throttle back on effort for two years and you drop from the NC game to a losing record.

Agree 100% Roman. Anytime anyone believes their name and name alone sales themselves that person (or entity) is headed for a fall. It is the very reason why success can be so much more difficult to deal with than failure.

When you start to believe the value of your own success you are dead.

I think this is got us to where we were in 1997: build it and they will come. Not the way it works as we’re all learning right now.

What got us to 1997 was an administration that wasn’t interested in building the best to see if they will come. The last thing they wanted to be seen as was a “football factory.”

When Mack does decide to hang it up, thats when the search will begin. We dont need to look like aggie. aggie has the school president and board running the athletic dept. They pay an AD and dont let him do his job. The school president looks like an idiot . Texas needs to let Dodds, Mack and the money guys handle a hire. Mack has been hell on wheels picking good coaches, one won a mnc last season. Texas can get most any coach it wants, just has to be the right coach.

“You really think that Harbaugh is going to leave the San Francisco 49ers and coach at Texas?

I hope you are joking"

Mynameisnobody – I think you are under the erroneous impression that an NFL job is superior to a top college coaching job. Hardly, particularly a job like the HC at UT.

Sum bawdy say sumpen lak "Leave the NFL and go back to college coaching? What kind of fucking moron would do that?

Lou Saban says “Hey! I resemble that remark!”

Mynameisnobody – I think you are under the erroneous impression that an NFL job is superior to a top college coaching job. Hardly, particularly a job like the HC at UT.

Over half the coaches in the NFL are making more than $4 million a year — 11 right now are making more than Mack. The NFL is the most popular sport in the U.S. and it isn’t even close.

The idea that a college coaching job is inherently superior to an NFL job is simply not true. There are many excellent coaches who value the college job, and coaching at an elite D-1 program is the ultimate for many of them — but there are only 32 NFL Head Coaches and they also are an elite group.

Jim Harbaugh could have had the coaching job at Michigan – his Alma Mater – and he turned it down to go to the NFL. That should tell you all you need to know about Harbaugh’s desire to coach at the pro level.

srr50,

Snide is impervious to facts.

The Cigar’s take on not having a QB on campus sure hits home today guys – huh? Last game of the year and we still don’t have a clue. Gotta wonder if Mack might be ready to retire afterall. That’s what happen when you screw up your QB recruiting.

Give it to him, Jesus. This “blame the messenger” bullshit is TIRED. Agree with your analysis completely.

My rage at watching RGIII in a not-UT jersey knows no bounds.

Shuttlesworth, i agree, I know dang well we would have had a 10 win season without the injuries.

Whether Mack leaves tomorrow or after next season, its time to start the transition. Mack has no future. Its time to start looking toward the future. If the cost of displaying loyalty to a coach is another 5-7 or. 7-5 season, so be it. Let’s just moving forward. Mack is spent.

Greg Davis needs to shut his mouth.

Bobby Wants Toast is obviously fucking with people. Nobody could be this stupid.

This team is different with a running game and top backs available.
Running the ball down their throats and not turning the ball over 5 times and this was a different game.
We beat KSU and Missouri, obviously, too.

Are Horn fans really this stupid? I know a lot of you dumbasses sit behind me at games, but surely some of you can actually think for yourselves.
How do some of you find your damn shoes in the morning?

There are some really good people that post here like Davey O’Brien and SRR50 and quite a few more.
It’s too bad a few douche bags taint things a tad with stupidity.

Snide Aside,
As much as we like UT and college ball, the big stage is the NFL. Harbaugh obviously wanted to be at that level and he’s not going to come back down to the college level at least until he accomplishes what he started out to do at that level.
It’s not really that complicated.

Good to have an authority on stupidity around.

I thought Mack’s halftime quickie interview with Samantha was very telling. It sounded more like he was auditioning for the ESPN gig “What a wonderful game, blah, blah, blah..” rather than address what Texas was doing.

It’s like flipping a switch, innit?

[CLICK!] Head Coach Mack: “Sam, we’ve just gotta be able to run the ball…”

[CLICK!] Pater Familias Mack: “Sam, we’re so proud of our boys…”

[CLICK!] BS Mack – Bobblehead Salesman: “Sam, this is a great game, between two great teams, and we’re just so blessed to have AT&T get together with ESPN to sponsor and produce it for us…”

oh well, after all this Ced and Kirk called it before the start of the season, 7-5. Now they say Mack isnt going anywhere. I figure they are right.

On The Longhorn Network, Priest Holmes and Joey Harrington also called 7-5. I guess those guys wisely decided not to partake in too much of the orange kool-aid.

^
Although beating the Aggies was a key victory that was the single most important game of the year. Hopefully we’ll win the bowl game, or then I will definitely be pissed. Next year, I think anything below a 9-3 season is a failure for Mack. He and his staff had best get to work and do an extreme makeover job at QB.

Ced and Kirk called it before the start of the season, 7-5.

Ced and Kirk weren’t the only ones, a hell of a lot of people were on the square with them. It was my low-end, with a high of 9-3… and absent injuries and “injuries” and defectioms, looks from here like we mighta made that high, too.

Looking back to see how we pissed away the glory of the Xtal Ball by not recruiting QBs and RBs with that sparkly thang, I came across something I hadn’t seen before: Gilbert had shoulder surgery in HS, between Jr/Sr seasons I think. Maybe he’s got a problem that’s been with him for quite a while. Maybe it’s fixed. Maybe he’s untransferring, and we’re SAVED!

srr50 ~ “Over half the coaches in the NFL are making more than $4 million a year — 11 right now are making more than Mack.”

How many of them will make more than Mack’s $5.3 million next season? That, with virtually 0 career risk.

Norv Turner and Andy Reid are certainly gone.

Nobody, I’m extending an olive branch because I agree with you. Sumlin would be a disaster and I hope aggy hires him, but unfortunately the loss yesterday probably eliminated him.

Per latest ESPN article, DeLoss says Mack to remain corch at Texas for the long haul…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dodds said he hopes his comments will end the rumors that Brown is leaving, voluntarily or otherwise. Dodds said he didn’t know why they would start in the first place.

“I’ve never seen him more energized and excited about the future,” Dodds said. “We just need to get some kids older and get over some injuries … I just want to shut (the rumors) down.”

Rumors of Brown’s departure first rippled last week after Texas beat rival Texas A&M in the last game of the 118-year series. After the loss to Baylor, Brown joked the defeat would spark even more and he was right.

“There’ll probably be a lot more after tonight,” Brown said. "When I do retire, it won’t come from a twit, a Twitter, in Topeka, Kansas. I want to coach for a long time.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Texas AD: Mack Brown staying put
http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7316541/texas-athletic-director-deloss-dodds-says-mack-brown-remain-coach

How many of them will make more than Mack’s $5.3 million next season? That, with virtually 0 career risk.

They are trying to make it to the top of their profession. That’s the NFL, not college ball. There aren’t a lot of Mack checks in the college game, and it’s only been a couple of years for Mack.