The criticism of Kelly not getting after it on the recruiting trail, and not securing enough talent to compete in the CFP against the likes of Alabama and Clemson are true. But, when you are working for an Administration that is clearly not 100% committed to giving the Head Football coach, the resources necessary to win a National Championship. It can become incredibly frustrating and discouraging. Why should I give 100%? When are you giving 80%? Is that the right attitude? No, but it is human nature.
How does Marcus Freeman feel today? Here is a guy busting his balls recruiting, he is trying to learn on the job, got off to a horrendous start. But, after taking his lumps his team finished the season strong and gave the program some real optimism heading into 2023.
You lose Rees, you subsequently lose Hiestand, because apparently Rees is his adopted son, and he cannot coach without Junior around. (Please don't give me the "spend more time with family" excuse. Hiestand spent the last 3 years at home retired.
Then you have an opportunity for a home run hire and perhaps kill 2 birds with one stone and replace both coaches. And ND will not spring for the buyout?
IF i am Marcus Freeman, and I beat OSU this year, get my team to the playoffs, and Michigan beats OSU for a 3rd year in a row? And my alma mater comes a calling? I am out of ND like a rocket ship on rails. He would be stupid to not do that. Just like it would have been stupid for Kelly to rebuff LSU.
How does Marcus Freeman feel today? Here is a guy busting his balls recruiting, he is trying to learn on the job, got off to a horrendous start. But, after taking his lumps his team finished the season strong and gave the program some real optimism heading into 2023.
You lose Rees, you subsequently lose Hiestand, because apparently Rees is his adopted son, and he cannot coach without Junior around. (Please don't give me the "spend more time with family" excuse. Hiestand spent the last 3 years at home retired.
Then you have an opportunity for a home run hire and perhaps kill 2 birds with one stone and replace both coaches. And ND will not spring for the buyout?
IF i am Marcus Freeman, and I beat OSU this year, get my team to the playoffs, and Michigan beats OSU for a 3rd year in a row? And my alma mater comes a calling? I am out of ND like a rocket ship on rails. He would be stupid to not do that. Just like it would have been stupid for Kelly to rebuff LSU.