Neuheisel Hire: UCLA Better Keep Eye on Him
I already know Rick Neuheisel was a guy with baggage. I didn't begin to realize how much baggage until doing research on his history for the column that appeared in this morning's newspapers.
To read that column, click here.
This guy was explaining himself all the time. Like, three weeks into his hiring at Washington. It's really kind of amazing.
What I found is a history of behavior that ought to be scary for UCLA administrators.
My colleague Steve Dilbeck believes the Bruins know who they just hired and will keep him on a tight leash. To read that column, click here.
My take? UCLA shouldn't have hired a guy who needs close supervision.
He could work out. Could. If he manages to keep from tripping over the NCAA rulebook.
Another aspect of the Neuheisel historical record ... is how the programs he has run in the past (Washington, Colorado) did well enough his first two seasons ... then took big steps backward.
That would clearly suggest he is OK coaching other coaches' guys, but not so good at coaching his own -- or even finding them.
I don't like this hire. I believe it will end badly for the Bruins.
Comments
Paul: Your comments about UCLA's selection of Rick Neuheisel seem a little over the top. Are you really suggesting that it is OK to recruit young men who will be accused of rape, assault and drug dealing, as long as there are no NCAA violations?
Posted by: Dana Roth | December 31, 2007 10:06 AM
You wonder we spent tax payer $ on that? If this goes down in flames, we should complain to our state gov't, esp. the UC Chancellor & UC Regents.
Posted by: Char Ham | January 1, 2008 11:59 AM