Sometimes I get the feeling Mullens goes the opposite way of what fans and players say because he just can't help himself--he has to be the smartest person in the room.
This is 3rd football coaching hire. First he chose continuity, a Man of Oregon and offensive coordinator, following the formula that had brought the Ducks a lot of success over 20 years. Helfrich wasn't equal to the job.
Next he chose a hot young coaching commodity from across the country, an up-and-comer with energy and personality, young and ambitious.
For his latest stab the Oregon AD is expected to nab a veteran, retread coach recently fired, a well-known name with a big reputation. Sumlin has recruited well, 2 top ten classes in the last 3 years, but he's had middling results at A&M since Johnny Football left.
With no natural ties to the Pacific Northwest, how long does he stay?
The players and the recruiting class will be disappointed. Even if Leavitt and/or Cristobal stay on they will all know it's a short-term arrangement. They both want to be head coaches. There are still some vacancies around the corner and more could follow. The NFL silly season is coming up. SMU needs a head coach. You never know when Bill Snyder or Nick Saban might retire. Herman Edwards could say something stupid before February; it's entirely possible.
What do you think about the prospect of a likely Sumlin hire for the Ducks, and what do you think the player morale and recruiting impact will be?
