TigerNet -- Blogs -- Mickey Plyler's Blog

Give Dabo His Chance
Normally, Monday I review Saturday’s game but I felt it was more appropriate to go in another direction today.

I want to start by saying that in 10 years of hosting my radio show that I have never called for a coach to be fired. It is just not my style. I am a “glass half-full” person and have never been one to call for a coach to be fired.

I also want to add that I really like Tommy Bowden. I like him as a person. He has been very good to me and I respect him. I want to add that Clemson is a better program today than it was when Bowden took it over.

I spent most of the last half of this past weekend on the phone. I called every former coach, former Clemson coach, former player and big-time booster I could. I just listened. My gut told me Saturday that it was time to make a move but I wanted take a day to take emotions out of it and talk to those in the coaching industry that knew more about it than I do.

Over the past four or five years there have been multiple occasions where callers on my radio show or e-mailers to my blog or websites have called for Bowden’s head and I have defended him. I have defended his position every time in public and in private. I always felt there was a reason not to make that move. I always felt there was something more positive in the future under Bowden. I tried to rationalize him staying on as the coach.

However, this is a different time and this is a different place. My opinion might not be worth anything and I am not trying to convince you to change your mind no matter what you think on this subject. But I have concluded that now is the time to make a change.

I am tired of a divided Clemson nation. I am ready to be reunited. I just can’t see how he can escape this one. It is about to get really bad around here. I think it will be Hatfield bad. The feeling I get is that people are ticked and are not going to take it anymore.

Clemson has been more than fair to Tommy Bowden. He has had nine plus years to win a title and he may win one this year but I have lost all confidence in that happening. He may not lose again this year and go on to win multiple championships. I would love to be wrong but I can’t see that happening.

Nothing would make me happier than making a phone call to Tommy on the Monday after the ACC title game to congratulate him and tell him I am sorry because I was wrong.

But, Clemson fans have given Bowden nine and a half years. They have been more than fair and he has had more than enough time.

Florida Athletic Director Jeremy Foley once fired a coach in mid-season and rationalized it by saying, “What should be done eventually, must be done immediately.” Foley fired his great friend Ron Zook and hired Urban Meyer.

On Sunday night I made follow up calls to several coaches and informed them of my thoughts and none of them thought it was a bad idea.

So here is my opinion of what Terry Don Phillips should do:
1. Inform Tommy Bowden today that he has been released as the head coach.
2. Name Dabo Swinney as the interim head coach.

I doubt Clemson would do this but here is my thoughts behind this action.
*I am pretty sure Terry Don does not think Bowden is the man to lead this program. I am pretty sure he wanted to let Bowden go to Arkansas last year but Jim Barker told him to get a deal done and Bowden was given a new contract.

*If this is the case and Terry Don does not believe Bowden is the right man to lead this program in the future then, “what should be done eventually, must be done immediately.” Terry Don says he doesn’t evaluate a coach in the middle of a season but this is an evaluation in the middle of nine and a half seasons.

*Naming an interim coach gives this team and these seniors a chance to regroup. This team could still go on to win an ACC title.

*If Clemson continues to falter then the interim head coach is not retained as the head coach. But if the interim head coach wins then Terry Don does not need to go through a national coaching search because he already has his man.

*This also gives Clemson a chance to get a head start on the coaching search. Schools like Tennessee and Virginia may be looking for a head coach and Clemson officials could be getting their ducks in a row and get ahead of other searches.

*I talked to several current college coaches Sunday about the idea of interim coaches and most agreed interim tags are a better idea than keeping a guy around as a lame duck. Players are held accountable because of the chance the interim coach may still be around. Discipline is more prominent under interims as opposed to lame ducks.

My gut tells me Terry Don already knows what he wants to do about Bowden’s future. He may say he always waits until the end of a season to evaluate a program but he has a nine and a half year resume of what he currently has under Bowden.

When Steve Spurrier resigned at Florida he made the comment that the former president of Florida told him after retiring from the school. The president told Spurrier that 10 years was enough. He said the school needs new ideas and new energy after 10 years of leadership. At his press conference Spurrier, who obviously enjoyed a tremendous amount of success, concluded that 12 years was long enough for him. Sometimes people need new challenges and teams need an injection of leadership.

My choice is to go interim and to go with Dabo. Brad Scott and Vic Koenning have been head coaches and more experience but Clemson is not going to hire either as the head coach. I know the administration likes Dabo. Why not give him the shot and see if he can win his way into the full-time gig?

Again, I like Tommy Bowden. I think he is a good man, a good husband, a good father and a good football coach. I just don’t think he can survive this now.

IPTAY raised $21 million last year because of seat equity but many upped without getting better seats. I think you will see a big drop in IPTAY donations next season because people will realize they can go down and still keep the same seats.

I just can’t see Bowden on the road at IPTAY meetings this spring promising new hope and new enthusiasm without an ACC title. Some say Clemson cannot afford to fire Bowden but I would say unless they win a title this year then they cannot afford not to fire him.

Some will point out the bottom line and the buyout. They may bring up attendance and IPTAY records. But sometimes it has to be about more than the bottom line. I think it is time to make a statement about your core. Clemson should be about winning championships and not the bottom line.

I remember well the end of the Parker, Pell, Ford, Hatfield and West eras. Tommy West was a very good friend and it hurt me to realize what I had to realize but it was time for the Tigers to make a change.

It hurts to come to this conclusion today because I like Tommy Bowden. But I love Clemson and have concluded it is time to go in another direction.

My gut told me that Saturday but the phone conversations Sunday only confirmed it. I have talked to a bunch of people since Saturday’s game including some boosters who have given hundreds of thousands of dollars, several former players and several former Clemson assistants including a few who are still in coaching. I did not speak to anyone on the current staff. I have not talked to anyone that is still fully committed to Bowden.

Speaking of committed, I would look for high school prospects that have committed to Clemson to start taking a look around.

Maybe this team will rebound and maybe they will win the ACC this season, but good football teams don’t lose to Maryland at home. Please don’t try to tell me Maryland is a good football team. Clemson has lost the last two games to Maryland at home despite being 19 point and 13 point favorites.

Tommy knows you have to win championships and he knows 10 years is a long time to win his first one. He also knows you can’t lose games to teams like the one he lost to on Saturday.

Those losses hurt but this is just a repeat of the same storyline of the last few seasons. This loss brings me to go with my gut and say it is time for a change.

So here is the real issue: Terry Don, if you think Bowden is the right man to lead this program in 2009 and beyond then stay the course. But if you think he should not lead this program in 2009 and beyond then today is the day to act. What should be done eventually must be done immediately. Give Dabo a shot. Who knows, you may not have to jet set all over the country looking for the next coach of the Tigers if you already have him right here on campus.

Those are my opinions. They may be wrong but they are from my gut and I am fully committed to them. I have conviction about these opinions and want thank you for taking a few minutes to read them.

The Brad Hughes All-State Insurance Agency

Comments:

Mickey, Great blog.... Not being able to see closely inside the program, I have always wondered if Dabo has what it takes to be a head coach and you obviously think he does. Do you truly think the administration would take a good look at Dabo?

Posted by JagerTiger on September 29, 2008 at 08:55 AM EDT #

Can't argue with any of your points Mickey. Unfortunately, this will not happen mid-season. Barker won't allow it. But because of the reasons you stated, it should.

Posted by 1983Grad on September 29, 2008 at 09:05 AM EDT #

Right on. Hurts me too. But it in hindsight, it's probably a year too late. Change needs to happen now, mostly for the kids who work too hard for these results.

Posted by franc1968 on September 29, 2008 at 09:06 AM EDT #

Mickey, I couldn't agree more. Also, I think Billy Napier or Brad Scott should be allowed to call plays for the rest of the year.

Posted by gtyoung10 on September 29, 2008 at 09:08 AM EDT #

Spot on.

Posted by BRSTiger on September 29, 2008 at 09:15 AM EDT #

TDP won't make the change, he's 1/2 the problem. OP is the only good decision he has made since he's been here.

Posted by rrudnic on September 29, 2008 at 09:15 AM EDT #

Mikey,

Glad to see someone get some testicular fortitude and finally start laying the facts out there. Hopefully the AD administration will do the same and make the right call. What are your thoughts on firing Bowden and Spence and letting Dabo be interim head coach and OC?

Perhaps we should remind the AD administration of the definition of insanity: "trying the same method and expecting different results".

Posted by clemsonee1999 on September 29, 2008 at 09:16 AM EDT #

Micky you are right,so right.I regret that Korn has been wasted after the promise he got while he was in high school.He would be a major difference,but we got this same ole same ole.God help us.

Posted by MBIGTIG06 on September 29, 2008 at 09:20 AM EDT #

THANK YOU MICKEY.

good job

Posted by OldTiger05 on September 29, 2008 at 09:26 AM EDT #

Your best, most accurate blog.

Posted by STERLING on September 29, 2008 at 09:27 AM EDT #

great blog Mickey! Absolutely correct, Fire Tommy and Hire Dabo!!!!!!!!

Posted by balllin on September 29, 2008 at 09:28 AM EDT #

Now is the perfect time to make the move - 10 days til you play, the next game is at Wake, and teams typically play better the first game or two after a decision like this. Today makes perfect sense and is very logical. Which is exactly why they WONT do it.

Posted by tigerkoty on September 29, 2008 at 09:39 AM EDT #

Mickey,

I feel the same way you do. As an alumni, a past employee with the Athletic Department and seeing what we have gone through, this is not the leader we need. The alumni, fans, and university have been more than fair to TB. It is time for the change. Not sure why Terry Don kept him on unless he wanted to give him the chance to see what he could do with the best talent Clemson has had in a long time. 3-2 and losing the way we have lost, all the talent and skill, not properly being used, COACHING is to blame. Mickey, do you think Terry Don has enough hair on his ##### to make the change? To end, I road back to the hotel in ATL after the game with Jim Barker on the bus and I love Jim, but when we got of the bus he looked at our party and said the sun will come up tomorrow. I wonder what he would say today.

Posted by porkchop47 on September 29, 2008 at 09:43 AM EDT #

Mickey,
If we do get an interim and I tend to agree with your blog, I think we need to change the OC position, also. If Rob did not make those very questionable play calls in 2nd half then let him stay, but if he did-- remove hime and put him in a less re=sponsible FB staff position.
The Clelmson coaching staff and team let down about 78--79 thousand fans on Sagturday at DV.
bob

Posted by bbrown cren on September 29, 2008 at 09:44 AM EDT #

Mickey,

I have been a consistent Bowden supporter through the years, but regrettably cannot argue with your blog today. I completely agree with your plan, and don't see another realistic option moving forward. The fan base is completely divided (maybe less so after Saturday), and with a few notable exceptions, our players are apathetic at best. Some of the individual efforts are extraordinary, but we are not playing as a team and we are not putting our players in the best position to proceed.

Bring on Dabo.

Posted by TTTavern on September 29, 2008 at 09:56 AM EDT #

Great blog. I now realize that there is only 1 decision to make. I can only hope that Terry Don makes the decision sooner then later.

Posted by Willmo on September 29, 2008 at 09:59 AM EDT #

Mickey,

Like you, I have been a die-hard supporter of Tommy Bowden until Saturday. The only way I will support keeping him now is if he would fire Rob Spence immediately if not sooner. Rob is a wonderful human being, but he is the worst offensive coordinator in the universe. Other than Jack Hines, he is Tommy's worst hire ever. Tommy can thank him and his non-offense for being in this position.

I fully support Dabo for interim - but only if he agrees to fire Spence. I just hope President Barker and Terry Don are listening to your voicing the outcry from the entire, united Tiger Nation.

Clemson simply cannot ever win when the best we can do is call a play to throw the ball 3 yards downfield on a third-and-twenty-one. That's telling the world we know we can't succeed - in spite of our talent.

I don't like people who give up without trying, and that's what Rob Spence does. He MUST go.

Posted by bailes on September 29, 2008 at 10:08 AM EDT #

Mickey,

Great blog. How can we make this happen? It's going to take the large donors telling TDP enough is enough. I am currently a season ticket holder and if Tommy is the head coach next year, I won't be. It is a shame that the bottom line is the priority, but apparently this is the only way to get through to the University. I know others feel the same way I do, and unfortunately it's the only way we're going to get a change.

Posted by McRib on September 29, 2008 at 10:13 AM EDT #

I like the post. I thought for sure we would lose 1 maybe 2 games to a good team this year, but Maryland! Alabama is a good football team, the talent has been there but the lose this weekend was just like the Duke loss after the Miami game. It just should not happen! Too much talent going to waste here at Clemson, time to hurt the program and lose the coach. The money can be made up but the 1 to 2 year loss on recruits will hurt, this will help with keeping Dabo. Just my 2 cents.

Posted by TigerRuss on September 29, 2008 at 10:18 AM EDT #

no one doubts tommy bowden is a good guy and he's done good at clemson. our program was literally in shambles when he took over. but i feel like he's reached the top of the bell curve in terms of what he is capable of as a coach. keep him and we risk losing all the momentum he has built up. we send a message to our players, fans and recruits watching us that losing will not be tolerated. good article.

Posted by tigerinkvillenc on September 29, 2008 at 10:18 AM EDT #

Great post. My feelings exactly. I've been "on the fence" for a couple of years and trusted the admin. to do what is best. This weekend laid the question to rest in my mind - a change must be made, and it should be made immediately.

And I'd love to see Dabo running the show. Let's see what he can do...my instinct tells me he'd have our team fired up and ready to go to beat Wake. There's absolutely nothing to lose by naming Dabo Interim HC, but the upside (both short- and long-term) could be huge.

Posted by TheHill2 on September 29, 2008 at 10:19 AM EDT #

THANK YOU MICKEY.

good job

Posted by OldTiger05 on September 29, 2008 at 10:21 AM EDT #

If Clemson and TDP do not change directions now or at the end of the year, it will be a disaster for Clemson. I'm all for a change ASAP considering the alternatives.

With that said, my wife and I made a pact with each other that we could not justify purchasing season tickets any longer without this immediate change.

For the first time ever, I can say I do not have fun or look forward to Clemson games. I can't think of anything else you would WILLINGLY spend this kind of money on knowing you are going to be unhappy with the product.

I love Clemson too much to allow disdain to set in like this. The only way to avoid that disdain, in my opinion, is to also part ways and become a little less emotionally and financially attached to Clemson football.

I never thought I would see the day where I didn't enjoy going to a Clemson football game. I'm assuming I'm not the only IPTAY member who feels this way.

Posted by CUFinman on September 29, 2008 at 10:22 AM EDT #

Mickey,

Posted by McRib on September 29, 2008 at 10:24 AM EDT #

how can we make this happen?

BOYCOTT THE GAMES!! don't show up. continue giving to iptay.

we have until 2014 to pay off TB in semi-annual payments. it's not a lump sum!!

Posted by sregitog 1 on September 29, 2008 at 10:34 AM EDT #

Mickey,

Posted by McRib on September 29, 2008 at 10:40 AM EDT #

Mickey,

I listen to you and read your blogs daily, and I have to say you a dead on with this one. Rob Spence should be fired today. I was sick Saturday and was unable to attend the game so I watched it on TV. One of the announcers made the comment that Spence had said he often will go away from who has the hot hand to give his other stars touches. I about fell out of my chair. It's not about touches, it's about what is working and until the other team can show they can stop it, you keep doing it. I also agree it's time for Dabo. I have felt for some time he is the right man. He brings back memories of someone else who played and coached at Alabama, and who was named interim coach and look where that got us. I really don't think I need to say the name!

Posted by dqueen on September 29, 2008 at 10:55 AM EDT #

Sadly, I don't think Clemson will do this. They seem to put more fans in the seats each year and continue to out raise the year before.

The admin doesn't want a championship team anyway, they want top 20, which I feel a big program would do, but it isn't in their formula.

Say hello to more of the same (kind of like the Presidential election, yippee!)

Posted by RobertsonCU on September 29, 2008 at 10:55 AM EDT #

I can't agree more. Great job with the blog Mickey. The only thing that needs to be added to this is getting rid of Rob Spence. As a student at Clemson, I hear all kinds of things on Saturdays that most of the IPTAY donors and parents do not hear. I think I can speak for the entire student population by saying no one is happy with the current situation. Clemson cannot continue to be the laughing stock of the ACC. Bowden unfairly trys to put most of the blame on the players, but any informed football fan knows success starts in the coaches. Fans (and Bowden) want to throw blame on Cullen but this is unfair to him because he is just executing the plays that are called. Spence and Bowden need to move on.

Posted by cutimbo on September 29, 2008 at 10:59 AM EDT #

I agree as well but have one concern. Would placing a Bowden protege in that position really change the direction Clemson is going? I think change has to be just that and unfortunately good people get caught up in it. I personally think going after a proven head coach who wants to accept the responsibility of the position because he believes he can win is the best solution and that person may be, Bobby Johnson.

Posted by TigerWes on September 29, 2008 at 11:05 AM EDT #

I think it has pretty much been said that this is the only option that we have. However, it won't happen because all Clemson's admin sees is the dollar signs that Tommy has brought in. My idea is to turn the final three games into a tailgating thing with a football problem. Just show up, tailgate and then don't go into the game. Watch it on tv or stay home. That way , when we are winning before the other team makes a change to beat us, we can either turn of the tv or the radio and just pretend like our current coaching staff didn't blow another win. Just an idea.

Posted by tigerman316 on September 29, 2008 at 11:10 AM EDT #

Lets just terminate spence and promote Dabo to OC...

the truth is that we arent going to term CTB but spence is certainly immediately expendable

Posted by kenc80 on September 29, 2008 at 11:19 AM EDT #

how can we make this happen?

BOYCOTT THE GAMES!! don't show up. continue giving to iptay.

we have until 2014 to pay off TB in semi-annual payments. it's not a lump sum!!

Posted by sregitog 1 on September 29, 2008 at 11:25 AM EDT #

How that Maryland game was somehow the "breaking point" for people like you who said they previously supported Bowden is beyond me. It was a terribly called game by Spence, and penalties and mistakes by the players consistently killed our chances to put the game out of reach.

We are FIVE games into the season. One loss in the ACC every year would have won the conference. Firing the head coach now isnt going to do any good except kill the rest of the season. I'd recommend taking a step back from the ledge and let the season play out.

Posted by ClemsonHart on September 29, 2008 at 11:33 AM EDT #

As much as I agree with you and so many comments above, I seriously doubt TB is going anywhere during the season. Like many though, I am changing my IPTAY pledge to the minimum and will not buy season tickets again until there is change!

I only give at Orange and buy 2 seats, but there is power in numbers and I think a lot of folks will do similar. I will go and support the team, just not in a way that rewards IPTAY and the Admin for the crap I am seeing from the coaching staff.

I also think Spence should be terminated or moved to a position of non-authority and non-playcalling immediately. Since he does not recruit, I guess I have no clue what that would be.

Posted by tigerP94 on September 29, 2008 at 11:40 AM EDT #

... I also suggested to several folks that Dabo should be calling plays. I have no clue if he is HC material, but have only heard great things and know he passed on a Bama position under Saban - must be a reason. Maybe he should take over the offense for now? Can he handle the politics involved with HC job? If so, no complaints here. If not, TB might hang around thru this year to do that and leave the coaching to some of the capable guys on his staff - whoever those are, which I do not claim to know. I just think Dabo might be thrown to the wolves a bit if he is jumped all the way to HC in this situation.

But hey, I am sure he would get a ton of support from this fan base and have players focused on doing what it takes to win! More than I can say for the current HC and OC.

Posted by tigerP94 on September 29, 2008 at 11:40 AM EDT #

Right On Mickey

I sent my e-mail to Jim and Terry yesterday. There is no doubt that Korn should be the starter for Wake Forest. I know Harper is completing almost 70% of his passes, but how many of those passes are over 20 yards. Not 20 yards after the play is complete, but 20 yard throws. Harper is hurt and the staff knows it, but they won't insert Korn for fear of a QB controversy.

My wife and I have been IPTAY members for almost 20 years. If a change is not made this season...WE ARE DONE!!!

Posted by CUTIGER3 on September 29, 2008 at 11:44 AM EDT #

Posted by ClemsonHart on September 29, 2008 at 11:45 AM EDT #

Plyler,

What you propose is about as likely as replacing the moron in the White House before January 20th.

Why would we want Dabo other than he would provide Mickey plenty of info. Clean house starting with the AD and go all the way down through the coaching staff.

Posted by loubello on September 29, 2008 at 11:46 AM EDT #

Replacing Spence with Dabo is priority one. You've got plenty of time to make that change before the Wake game. We can deal with Bowden's future after the season.

Posted by Baghdad_Bomber on September 29, 2008 at 11:50 AM EDT #

Wow, you went from Sunshine pumper to Fire Tommy! pretty fast on this one. I mean what changed in the Maryland game that you haven't seen the last 9 years? Some people have been pointing out that this is Bowden's style for a LONG time now and you've always demeaned them and even censored such dissention... but now all of the sudden you're off the bandwagon. Why? Was the Maryland game that bad?

Posted by HarborViewTiger on September 29, 2008 at 12:13 PM EDT #

Better late than never Mickey. Once the light shines on you, it fills you with a warmth that defending Tommy never could! Dabo for HC is a knee jerk reaction. Ask WVU how that is working out.

Posted by CM Shack on September 29, 2008 at 12:22 PM EDT #

I guess when you're not surprised or angry with such a stupid loss, it is pretty obvious that TB should go. I, too, wish he left last year.

Posted by Lawtonfunk on September 29, 2008 at 12:22 PM EDT #

I also was a supporter of Bowden, but at this time I agree he needs to go.
The Alabama loss doesn't look as bad now, Maryland BAD!
However, I do agree Bowden improved this program as Mickey stated, lets not forget if not for him the facilities might not have the current upgrades. He's done good things for this University, but it's time to bring in new life.
I agree with many on Spence with some poor play calling.
I'm also calling for Harper to be benched. I was one of the one's last year defending him, but in my opinion he's causing issues with his whining. There's one way to shut fans up > PERFORM! Quit over/under throwing balls and quit sliding and running out of bounds when you have opportunties to get first downs. He's being a Pre Madona-your not an NFL star quarterback take your hits. Maryland is ranked like 110th against the pass!
If we do go with DABO or keep Bowden I say throw in Korn, and see what he can do. At least he has scrambling ability with this horrible OLine.

Posted by cdennis13 on September 29, 2008 at 12:24 PM EDT #

Lastly, it's now proven no matter how many offensive power weapons you have Davis, Spiller, Harper, Ford, Kelly, Etc... Without a Oline big names don't get it done. Same on defense - thank god for talented backs because our dline isn't getting to qb. It starts in the trenches - Hello Alabama Holy Shlt what big men these are. Go get the Meat & Potatoe Men to fill in the trenches!

Posted by cdennis13 on September 29, 2008 at 12:26 PM EDT #

Firing TB now and having an interim HC is without a doubt the best thing to do. Ford was a bright young asst that went on to great things. Now in Dabo we have another bright young asst that many feel is destined to be a HC. With a bye this weekend, TODAY is the perfect time to give Dabo a shot and see if he is ready. We have absolutely nothing to lose by doing it. If he pans out, we have a promising and passionate young coach and continuity in the program. If it doesn't work, at least we gave him a shot and we are ahead of other schools in our search for new leadership and direction. It also saves TB and the program 8 to 10 more weeks of total hell. Honestly, it truly is a WIN for everyone involved.

Sadly, it won't happen. Barker is too image conscious and cares more about how his liberal academic friends will view this rather than doing the best thing, the right thing, for EVERYONE!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 12:42 PM EDT #

While I have not been a "fan" of Tommy, I have tried to give him every opportunity to prove himself. We have given him "facilities" at great cost and continued to fork over more money for seats and tickets. He must have the "talent" as evidenced by the fact that I believe we were the oddsmaker favorite on every game we have lost last year and this year. We weren't made the ACC favorite this year for lack of talent. He simply cannot get results and its time to stop making excuses. I agree with your comments all the way.

Posted by bprice563 on September 29, 2008 at 01:06 PM EDT #

Great one Mickey. I think you just summed up the feelings of Tiger Nation. Now, will what needs to happen, happen? If CTB loves our University as much as he says, he should step down and avoid Clemson getting drug through the mud.

Posted by CUFOR98 on September 29, 2008 at 01:06 PM EDT #

Thanks, Mickey for the post today. Many Tigers out there feel the same way. A change needs to be made. We can't accept mediocre results any longer. The talent is there, we need the right coach to coach it.

Posted by hammer on September 29, 2008 at 01:08 PM EDT #

You're HALF right in my opinion.

First, replace Spence NOW.

Reasons: (1) We abandoned our game plan in the 2nd half when the game plan was clearly working. (2) Even though MD made small adjustments on the front line at the half, we were unable to re-adjust on the fly (we've never been able to adjust well) (3) Bowden doesn't call the offensive plays. Spence does.

Fire Spence now, let Dabo call the plays. Deal with Bowden later.

Just my opinion.

Posted by RU4GOD2 on September 29, 2008 at 01:28 PM EDT #

Mickey: I’m glad you finally see the light. Unfortunately, the administration can't fire Bowden a few months after they foolishly granted him an unnecessary $4M buy-out. That would be suicide for Barker & TDP because it would show just how incompetent they are for granting a $4M buy-out clause to a coach who had no better options. (ESPN reported that Arkansas’ BOD rejected Bowden.) Doing so would lead to their dismissals.

Firing Bowden now would hurt this season. But removing Spence from play-calling duties would help.

If Spence remains, I think Clemson will go about 8-5 this year-- which is good enough for Barker. Clemson won't fire Bowden. But if they’re smart, they'll pressure Bowden to fire (or demote) Spence (who in incompetent to be a D-1A OC) and to hire a new OC in order to give the fans enough hope to keep donating to Clemson & IPTAY.

If Bowden is really a good guy, then he’ll resign at the end of this season and not make Clemson pay the $3.5M buyout.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 29, 2008 at 01:28 PM EDT #

Although I agree with many points above I seriously doubt any of this will happen. Why? Because if TDP actually went through with anything close to what is being said it will give the impression that a local radio host (with great school loyalty) can actually control major decisions within the AD. TDP's image would suffer if he succumbed to the fans' immediate requests.

Also, how often do college coaches get fired in the middle of the season? I know it's happened, but it's almost always with one or two games left. I can't remember any only five games in.

Posted by hankster on September 29, 2008 at 01:40 PM EDT #

I'm not sure if your solution is the way to go or not, but I do salute you Mickey for the stones I know it took for you to publish this blog today. MAJOR stones. I salute you.

Posted by madmac03 on September 29, 2008 at 01:51 PM EDT #

Amen. Great article!

Posted by Clemson_Orange on September 29, 2008 at 01:59 PM EDT #

While I think Bowden may be the best thing that has happened here at Clemson as far as building the program and developing a team with the character and values we are all proud of, it is definitely time for him to go. Unfortunately, he has proven time and time again he cannot get the job done as a head coach. For all the promises he has made that went unfulfilled, I hate to buy him out of his contract. Make him Dabo's assistant so he will have to quit and pay Clemson. Then distribute his buyout to all the IPTAY members who are paying big money for his mediocrity.

Posted by 216.218.65.76 on September 29, 2008 at 02:21 PM EDT #

One more thing.... We will probably NOT win 8 games as I had previously hoped. If we win two more, we'll be lucky. I hope I'm wrong, but I don't think I am.

Posted by RU4GOD2 on September 29, 2008 at 02:53 PM EDT #

Fact - Coaches are fired all the time and rarely is the full buyout paid. There is no such thing as an ironclad contract. Anytime it takes an attorney and more than a napkin or notepad to draw up a contract, you have vague and obtuse language written such that when it comes time for the divorce, be it husband & wife, or school & coach, you need lawyers to figure the convoluted mess out, which they do on purpose for their own self preservation. TB should be reassigned within the athletic department, which is not uprecendented, and if he cries about his buyout, tell him "sue us". Let the fine christian (pardon me as I try not to snicker) tell the school and fans why he thinks he deserves the buyout!! Unfortunately, Barker will do the usual, which is ignore what's best for Clemson and do what fits his agenda, which in this case means keeping TB till December and giving him the $3.5 million. Clemson deserves better leadership, and I'm not just referring to the football team or AD!!!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 03:08 PM EDT #

At the very least, whoever is in charge of game planning and adjustments needs to be relieved of their duties.
If mid-season termination is not your cup of tea, then just shuffle some responsibilities and do what has to be done at the end of what is looking like will be another dissapointing season.
You have to do something to save your fan base. Show them that they matter because agree with them or not, we are an important cog in the Clemson machine. Commit to winning, plain and simple.

Posted by GoodFella on September 29, 2008 at 03:22 PM EDT #

Mickey, I know this was hard to write, and I sympathize with the pain that it must cause you to come to this decision.

My feelings are exactly the same. I love Clemson, but if TB and Brad Scott came to recruit my son to play for them right now, i'd say, "We're going to wait for a better program."

Posted by mumbo78 on September 29, 2008 at 03:45 PM EDT #

Just read Dan Scott on Scout. I love these folks that think losing is ok because it's only a game. If it's only a game, why is TB getting $2+ million a year? Why do we have a stadium that holds 82,000+ fans? Why do we sell bonds to make capital improvements to our facilities? The stupidity of the "put things in perspective" & "it's only a game" excuse makers never ceases to amaze me!

I have a question for Dan. Hey Dannyboy, If you were still living in Ohio and had season tickets to the Reds, and after 10 years with the same GM & manager the Reds had failed to win a single NL Central title or get into the playoffs as a wild, would you be satisfied and keep buying season tickets and say to yourself "it's ok, it's just a game", or would you be pissed and questioning management and calling for a new manager and possibly a new GM??

Thought so!!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 03:54 PM EDT #

Great blog Mickey. This is one of those times that it hurts to be right, but I think you are, and that I was wrong in the end. Given all that you said though, I do think people have been gunning for Tommy for a while, and that this gives them the ammo to get him fired.

Posted by Mugg on September 29, 2008 at 04:04 PM EDT #

Mickey, I agree 100% and have been saying so for three years. As an alumni ('81) and former USMC officer, I have seen great leadership. TB is not great. He is simply just "OK". In protest after last year's extension and buyout being made public, I didn't purchase season tickets this year, and I wont until Bowden is gone. TDP did a disservice to Clemson by committing us to that extension. I will still continue to give to IPTAY, but it is not worth the trip from Little Rock to watch my Tigers lose games they shouldnt. These young men deserve better and NOW is the time to provide that. One other thing: all these people calling for Korn to play...Harper is NOT the problem, not even close. The heart of the problem is Bowden, Scott and Spence, not Harper

Posted by littlerocktiger on September 29, 2008 at 04:25 PM EDT #

Posted by littlerocktiger on September 29, 2008 at 04:50 PM EDT #

That's right !

Posted by rsktiger on September 29, 2008 at 04:57 PM EDT #

Little Rock:
Harper has 8 turnovers, including a pick-6. His passing has been inconsistent, his decision making has been questionable, and his running has been lame.

Against UMD Harper slid short of the 1st down marker 3 times rather than lowering his shoulder or making a cut and running for it. He runs and slides like he's a multimillion dollar prima donna NFL QB or something. Harper threw the ball into the stands twice, instead of throwing the ball to the wide open receiver. I don't THINK Korn would do any worse passing. But I'm CERTAIN that Korn would do a LOT better running (and scrambling). That could have been the difference in beating UMD.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 29, 2008 at 05:18 PM EDT #

Mickey--

This little character you've created for yourself as a "glass half full" guy is nice, but it's simply fiction. You've always been ridiculously reactionary. Case in point--before the Maryland game two years ago, you chastised and demeaned anyone who had anything critical to say about the program. Following the 13-12 loss, you ripped everyone from the student body to the players to the coaches to the traditional fan base. You're NOT rational. After religiously supporting TB for all of these years, you're now calling for a mid-season coaching change based on one half of football? That's just absurd. This has NOTHING to do with whether you're right or wrong about your opinion now (which will probably change should we manage to beat WF next week)--it's all about how you react to adversity...you cry and moan and criticize and call for drastic changes.

And you've ALWAYS been this way.

Posted by clemson32 on September 29, 2008 at 05:49 PM EDT #

RAZZMATAZZ...I'll give you that one, Korn would scramble better. I'm not convinced his passing would be all that much better. Couldnt hurt to try i guess

Posted by littlerocktiger on September 29, 2008 at 06:12 PM EDT #

while i do not pretend to be a Bowen supporter I have gone along for the good of Clemson.I do not believe in changing Coaches every 5 years But bowen has had all the chances he deserves. It is time for him to go. I do not think of myself as a big tme suporter. Iam a life member and have continued to give more money. Iemailed them that They Would not get my $10,000.00 next year if Bowen is here and that is all they understand. They have made it clear that it is a business. The only way to get their attention is through their pocket book.
We must as a united voice let them know that we are not paying premium money for a SORRY product!!!!!!

Posted by cessna337d on September 29, 2008 at 06:23 PM EDT #

FlatTiger66: I’m guessing that you didn’t read Bowden's contract (or perhaps you're not very familiar with contract law). Clemson can't reassign Bowden because doing so would be a breach of contract, and would prevent him having the opportunity to achieve his performance bonuses. In such a case, Bowden could sue for breach of contract and EASILY win. And even if Clemson could get away with reassigning him, it would cost Clemson A LOT MORE money because Clemson would have to make up for the difference between what they pay him and what he's guaranteed to receive in total income (including outside sources) because his outside sources of income would shrivel up.

Bowden's contract IS iron clad. After 12/2, Clemson might be able to negotiate him down to $3M or so, in order to avoid tarnishing his reputation. But if they fire him before 12/2, they owe him $4M. After 12/2, they owe him $3.5M. The provisions for termination with cause are unambiguous.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 29, 2008 at 06:34 PM EDT #

Mickey -

I Dislike the plan. Dabo is nice like CTB...(likes going to church)It would just pour gas on the fire. Its the middle of the season...I think it would crush the rest of the year.I'm willing to loose every game and recruit to make that happen. Plus I think some of the players actually like CTB.I think we will get someone like Bill Cowher. That is the kind of guy we deserve. Everyone above would be happy and we would roll 4-ever.
With Mickey, Willy K., and Cowher we will win it all in '09. You heard it here 1st....Its gonna be Cowher.

Posted by GWC on September 29, 2008 at 06:44 PM EDT #

It is beyond me that there are people out there that want to promote a WR coach to HC. This is insane. He is a nice guy and a great recruiter but that is all you know about him! He's never called plays before. What on Earth makes you think he would be a good HC? Is that what kind of school Clemson is now? Give a position coach the head coaching job? Even UNC had the guts to go out and get a proven coach and it is paying off for them. Why not Bud Foster? Or Muschamp? Coaches who have actually been coordinators! I like Dabo and i'm sure he will a good HC one day but Clemson is not a place for on the job training.

Posted by iggyme on September 29, 2008 at 07:02 PM EDT #

A muffed punt,when you have the game in hand... A long TD run by CJ, called back becouse you get a flag... a Fef marks the spot on the endzone side of the yellow line, runs up the pile and mark the spot about 4 to 6 inches on the other side of the yellow line... Maybe he didn't see the Maryland player(after the plays over)move our QB back a few inches... Sometimes these thing just happen... Ask GA,FLA. and even the great Sou Cal... Go Tigers, and don't lose another game...

Posted by Gray_Court_Tiger on September 29, 2008 at 07:14 PM EDT #

always going overboard

Posted by ORANGECRUDE on September 29, 2008 at 07:16 PM EDT #

Mickey -

Posted by GWC on September 29, 2008 at 07:22 PM EDT #

Razz, I'm very familiar with contract law and I assumed if there was a provision in TB's contract for re-assignment I'd be corrected, but you are INCORRECT!!! There is NO such thing as an ironclad contract anytime there is a lawyer involved on both sides. This is why beach of contract lawsuits are so common. They'd be unnecessary if contracts were clear and bulletproof. This is also why prenups are rarely worth the paper they are written on, and it's also why very few buyouts are ever paid in full. Most are settled through negotiation or arbitration. And there is precedent for such reassignments!! Let him sue, he only reached incentives in his contract for the bowl games anyway. To argue he'd reach incentives this year would get him thrown in a padded room as a nut job after showing replays of our games to a judge!!!!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 08:51 PM EDT #

GWC: Bill Cowher is a nice dream but Clemson can't get him. And I can't imagine Clemson hiring a Yankee like Cowher anyway. There are many great coaching candidates, but I imagine Clemson would limit the head coaching search to Protestant southerners. I don't think Clemson has hired anything else since they hired John Heisman in 1900. And he had southern coaching credentials.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 29, 2008 at 09:11 PM EDT #

I registered for the TigerNet just so that I could add my two cents worth about Bowden.
I graduated in 1984 and have followed the program closely since. Like so many, I admire many of Tommy personal qualities.
However, after watching the game Saturday and the debacle of the second half, I don't see how Bowden stays.
The team has no mental toughness. That quality comes from the leader.
Add me to the list of Tiger faithful that say whatever it takes to fire him, you have my support! He simply is not an elite coach and NO matter how much talent Clemson recruits while he is there, they are not going to be an elite team - in the ACC or nationally. Tommy apparently has many wonderful qualities, but the ability to lead Clemson football beyond mediocrity is not one of them!

Posted by billharmon on September 29, 2008 at 09:15 PM EDT #

iggyme........

You seem to forget Danny Ford was a 30 year old offensive line coach when he became HC at Clemson.

Also, it's been proven repeatedly that promoting highly successful coordinators to HC and expecting success is hit or miss at best!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 09:17 PM EDT #

Posted by billharmon on September 29, 2008 at 09:19 PM EDT #

Razz,

Are you aware that Larry Shyatt is Jewish?

I agree about hiring a yankee. Finding a good fit is important, but like Urban Myer proved at Florida, if you WIN no one will care!!!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 29, 2008 at 09:20 PM EDT #

For all the Tommy Lovers out there,

All will be good if your boy just wins! But we all know that just ain't happenin' with the schedule we have before us. Wake will be ready to play. So will Tech, BC, FSU, & the Dukies. If he loses to Duke, I KNOW he will be gone!

Posted by El_Tigre95 on September 29, 2008 at 10:15 PM EDT #

BRAVO!

Posted by PokerTiger on September 30, 2008 at 08:00 AM EDT #

Flat: I think Larry Shyatt was also a Yankee. But that's basketball. The football head coaching job is a much higher profile position that requires the approval of old boys who write 6-7 figure checks. I could be wrong. It could just be a coincidence for the last 100+ years or so.

Contracts can be reasonably litigated when the language or the compliance is questionable. If Clemson fires Bowden, neither the language nor the compliance would be in question, and Clemson would lose. Look at Rich Rodriguez. He thought he could litigate his way out of a $4M buy-out. But he (and UM) ended up paying WVU the FULL $4M (and legal fees). You might want to rethink your position that there's no such thing as an iron clad contract.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 30, 2008 at 10:46 AM EDT #

Razz, history says you are wrong. You telling me the 100s of coaches fired the last 20 years that ended up negotiating a smaller buyout all had bad attorneys? Hardly. RichRod is the ONLY college or pro coach in years to end up stuck with the full buyout. There is no such thing as an ironclad contract if written by attorneys, none, zero. RichRod was a unique case. That was a family fued. As far as coaches for football, who cares, as long as he wins and does it the right way, but certainly a good fit would help.

Posted by flatiger66 on September 30, 2008 at 10:58 AM EDT #

Flat: Like I said, if the language or the compliance is questionable, there's room to litigate or settle. Of course there have been many such questionable cases that have been negotiated to a compromise settlement. There have also been many cases where the iron clad contract ruled a cut & dry case. Clemson firing Bowden would be cut and dry, like the Rodriguez case. I provided a specific example proving you wrong, but you're still arguing that you're right? OK. I'm done.

Posted by Razzmatazz on September 30, 2008 at 12:06 PM EDT #

Razz, You do not know that it's cut and dry. Opinions are like a-holes, and every judge and attorney has and acts like BOTH, as are you. Thus, unless you are TB or CU's attorney, STFU, because until it were ruled on by a judge or went thru arbitration nobody knows for sure! RARELY are contracts cut an dry, to argue otherwise is ignorant and asinine!!!

Posted by flatiger66 on September 30, 2008 at 01:08 PM EDT #

I have been posting a similar post since start of season, Harper has not been same since diving over goal line at BC last year. But the coaches should have recognized this, and especially Spence. This has turned out to be another Proctor-type season. I say fire Spence, and replace Harper with Korn.
In the first drive, Harper at third and two in the red zone, he had plenty of time, he could have even run, but he only looked left and then passed it out of bounds that way. There was a receiver wide open on the right, and he never looked that way. That was a terrible way to start game. Then Harper's first long pass since BC at end of first half looked like a wounded duck, and was intercepted. Then a backwards pass, and another interception, and then not making a half-yard gain on fourth down to end the game. PROCTOR ALL OVER AGAIN!

Posted by captron on October 01, 2008 at 12:30 PM EDT #

Mickey,

I like to read you blog.

I am extremely disappointed that you could not endure to the end in supporting TB. Tommy BNowden will bring us an ACC and a BCS Championship.

This article is very damaging to Tommy Bowden and could also hurt us in getting top recruits.

Regards,

John.

Posted by TIGERBOLT on October 01, 2008 at 05:32 PM EDT #

your an egg head john,sorry buts its true.we have all but lost, loston, and a few more.because,they already see.with out hearing it.our coaching staff,with some of the best talent in the country.has only won against 3 cup cake.those high school kids are not,neither dum,nor death,or blind.to fire Bowden right now,yesterday.would send a message to those new,very talented recruits that,our goal,is winning.TDP,do the right thing for CLEMSON,fire Tommy Bowden right now.start saving the schools reputation.

Posted by tigercrazynut on October 01, 2008 at 08:05 PM EDT #

I think you've all lost your mind. The season is 5 games old and we have lost 2 games. I would love to be 5-0, but we aren't. Get over it.
Leave the team and coaches alone until the season is over. That's when you assess performance against performance goals/requirements.

Posted by clemsonfaninVA on October 01, 2008 at 10:31 PM EDT #