Houston Cougars Should Hire Ruffin McNeill and Lincoln Riley

By Robert H. Kelly
Copyright 2010 TexSport Publications

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 16, 2010) The University of Houston is looking for an offensive and defensive coordinator for their football team. Could recent events at Texas Tech play right into the hands of the Cougars and propel them to the next level? I think so.

The Cougars recently fired defensive coordinator John Skladany, and with the departure of offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, to Oklahoma State, Houston needs to fill both these positions with people who can step in and fill the gaps immediately.

My suggestion is hire former Texas Tech defensive coordinator and interim head coach Ruffin McNeill as the Cougars’ defensive coordinator and former Texas Tech assistant Lincoln Riley as offensive coordinator.

Both are coming off leading Texas Tech to a brilliant win over Michigan State in the Alamo Bowl and would be a perfect fit for the Cougars.

McNeill would bring credibility to the Houston defense and raise them to the next level. The Cougars spent most of the season with one of the worst defensive teams in Conference USA and spent more time trying to outscore their opponents than stop them.

His expertise and the way he relates to players and fans would fit in very nicely to head coach Kevin Sumlin’s overall team philosophy and organization.

Lincoln Riley, on the other hand, would bring the experience and knowledge of having worked up former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach.

The Cougars’ offense, which produced the most points (42.1) and yards per game (563.4) in the nation this past season, could continue in the same direction next season and perhaps get that little something extra they next under Riley’s stewardship.

In any case, hiring either one or both could take the Cougars to the next level. After the beating the Cougars took from Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, Houston had better make their decision quick so they can get back to the drawing board and prepare to put a team on the field that can win Conference USA.

Ruffin McNeill: The NEXT Head Coach at Texas Tech?

(Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2010 All Rights Reserved)

By Robert H. Kelly
Copyright 2010 Texport Publications

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (Jaunary 3, 2010) The Texas Tech Red Raiders showed they can win without Mike Leach at the helm.

On Saturday night (actually Sunday morning) the Red Raiders defeated Michigan State 41-31 in the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio.

Texas Tech did not seem fazed over the absence of the coach that got them there. In fact, the team seemed to rally behind interim head coach Ruffin McNeill.

Could it be that won the game for Leach, even though he was not present on the sidelines?

Could it be they won the game because they were playing in their school's 10th straight bowl game?

Could it be they won because that was what they were expected to do?

Could it be they won because Michigan State had a depleted team, due to the suspension of 12 players and the dismissal of two others?

Could it be that they won for McNeill?

People can and will debate the reasons for the the Red Raiders' win over Michigan State and the outcome of the Alamo Bowl for years to come.

One thing is certain; the 2010 edition of the Alamo Bowl was one for the ages.

There was more hoopla at this game since the firing of Leach this past Wednesday.

The ESPN announcers were discussing the absence of Leach and the effect it would have on the players, coaches, and the game.

McNeill and Lincoln Riley, who was calling the offensive plays, did appear nervous, but who would not be if they were trust into the same positions?

McNeill stated in the press conference in San Antonio on Friday that he would be interested in the head coaching position if the opportunity presented itself.

The bottom line is the real reason for Texas Tech's win over Michigan State may never be known.

One thing is certain. Ruffin McNeill submitted his resume tonight for the job as the next head football coach at Texas Tech. The powers that be at Texas Tech can take it or leave it.