In writing about why Dennis Franchione is the right coach for Texas A&M, Richard Justice says the following:
The Aggies aren’t going to get anyone better. Franchione is tough, organized, smart and detail-oriented. Unless the Aggies are willing to enter a bidding war for Greg Schiano, unless they’re willing to take a chance on, say, Todd Graham, they ought to stay the course for another year.
I don’t know if Justice was specifically citing the Rice coach as a candidate, or just suggesting a type, as in a young, hungry, assistant coach from a small but successful program. I presume the Ags’ defeat of the surprisingly listless Longhorns today obviates the need to worry about this for at least another year. But for goodness’ sake, can we please allow the Owls to finish their season, which may have two more games in it, before we get subjected to the Which ESU Will Swoop In And Throw Millions At Todd Graham stories? Show some respect for the Rice fans here, people. You’ll have the entire winter to play Fantasy Coach Search. Let us have our moment, OK?
Todd Grahm’s decision to hire Major Applewhite is brilliant for 2 reasons. First is that he is doing a stellar job as offensive coordinator. The second reason is that he will have time to grow etc. so that if the program is sucessful and he gets big money offers, there will be continuity in the program and we will have another smart, passionate young coach leading the owls. So we have a great head coach and one in waiting. GO OWLS!