Wednesday 11 December 2013

College Football News - Tomlin/Harbaugh Next Coaches at Texas

Tomlin certainly has the necessary experience, with a Super Bowl win and two AFC titles. He's spent most of his coaching career in the NFL but did stints at VMI, Memphis, and Arkansas State from 1995-1998. One would think he'd be behind as a recruiter but Texas has some of the strongest pull on its own and he'd likely surround himself with capable recruiting men. On Tomlin's end, we only see him doing this if it comes with a significant pay increase and he has an increased desire for flexibility and control. The Rooney family by most standards are great (maybe the best), consistent owners but we can imagine Tomlin would be afforded nigh-maximum control in a powerful place at Texas. He doesn't seem to be unhappy in Pittsburgh and his job isn't in danger but it's interesting to see his name floated.

Harbaugh led University of San Diego to two league championships in three years, laid the groundwork for Stanford's tremendous recent success, and went to a Super Bowl with the 49ers last year. One would think Texas would salivate at the chance of landing a coach who's turned ships around quickly and with force. Harbaugh has to be in the same boat as Tomlin, though. His job's not in danger and he seems happy. Unlike the Steelers, also, the Niners have current and realistic playoff and Super Bowl hopes. It's not inconceivable he considers the opportunity for total control but the odds are highly against it.

The Steelers and 49ers jobs are some of the most highly coveted jobs themselves. It would be pretty shocking if either coach left at this point. The other matter here is that the NFL season is not complete and Harbaugh's could go well into January. The Texas job isn't one that needs to be filled right away for recruiting purposes--kids will come to UT. But sooner is probably better. www.freesportspicksdaily.com