Who He's NOT

I know, I know. It's been just under a month since I've posted. I wish I could say that my duty in the Army, or an absence of Internet access is the cause for this lapse in time, but it's not. Frankly, I just haven't had much motivation. Granted, I've had a child and have a lot going on in my life, but I guess publishing my life hasn't been much of a priority for me as of late. Furthermore, I can't really even explain why I'm posting about this guy at this time. However, it might be because I've finally come to grips with the events surrounding the coaching change at my beloved academic institution.
Derek Dooley is a name that I was only made aware of after reading the ticker at the bottom of the television while watching ESPN. I had no clue who he was or what credentials he had to take over (what I believe to be) one of the biggest coaching jobs in college football. After the announcement was made and I tuned in to his press conference on the Deuce, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of morbid state of depression I might fall into over the next two or three college football seasons.
Having finally done a little homework on him, I've deduced the following:
- He's not a well known name, only his last name. His father, famed UGA head coach Vince Dooley, holds the accolades in the family.
- He's not the head coach of reputable program. In fact, LA Tech was his first head coaching position.
- He's not a former SEC player...only an assistant coach, albeit a Sabanite (at LSU and Miami).
- He wasn't even among Hamilton's top candidates, as 4 other prospects were approached prior to getting the interview.
Despite his shortcomings, this is not intended to be an assault on the new coach. Instead, it's only a list of facts that everyone has been made aware of over the past couple of weeks. What is most important about his list of negatives is this: HE'S NOT LANE KIFFIN!
Look, I'm not jumping on the bandwagon of people who hate Kiffin for leaving UT. Frankly, I wasn't too enthused that he was hired. He never seemed like a great fit with the culture and heritage of the school, town and conference. The only shining light I saw that his father, Monte, was coming to K-town. Sure, he had others like Orgeron coming as well, but Monte is arguably the greatest defensive mind in professional football. I was excited about what our defense was going to look like in the years to come.
To those who say that Kiffin abandoned the Big Orange, I say good riddance. I'd rather have a less than notable coach with character and integrity than what we got out of the 14 months Kiffin "graced us with his presence." Dooley's likely to get a pass this first season since he came in a probably he worst time ever! Moreover, he's got enough experience and motivation (not to mention a southern accent) to garner an even winning record next year, which is only one win less than Kiffin got. I'll take that any day over more sleepless nights worrying about NCAA violations!
Take care and go Dooley!