After years of frustration I can no longer engage in this hopeful, Who's Behind the Green Door" coaching game. Like you, I've time and again traveled this path to know that at some point my decades-long abrasion will scab over, and it has. But, like many here Trojan football is in my DNA and I'll continue to watch and praise/criticize till the day I die.
That said, until those "in-charge" demonstrate a willingness to engage in a non-incestuous and HONEST hiring process, I cannot rid myself of the thought that our next HC will once again generate high levels of angst and disenchantment amongst our Trojan brethren. It's an institutional issue that has truly become a part of USC' culture.
And for those looking at the Korn Ferry's of the world for hope, well, guess what, they're pirating money just as Haden and others have. Hundreds of thousands of dollars thrown at these companies by USC in an effort to deceive masses.
As with the recruitment of a player, hiring a HC is also a risky, non-exact equation. It would stand to reason therefore that in the signing of either a well-defined recruiting/hiring matrix must exist in an effort to ensure the highest probability for success, right? That model should not, must not include as "overriding" qualifiers who the candidate knows, their ties to the USC or their ex parte-esque relationships with decision makers. Over the years, however, it unfortunately has.
Just because you hire a known product, be it a recruit or HC, doesn't mean success is guaranteed or that a high probability for success even exists. It does however translate to providing you with the BEST opportunity for success. USC has continually failed to do this the past fifty years and at this point there is no indication that will change. I hope it does, but chances are it won't.
That said, I agree with those who feel Clay survives the season and that he'll likely be walking the sidelines in '19 baring a calamitous event. That said, if and when he is let go I'd be hopeful if, and only if:
- Heritage Hall, BoT's and the big boy Booster's demonstrate a willingness to rid themselves of their incestuous need to hire from within. Making a "quality" hire from outside the institution is likely the first step in reformation. Although basketball is a completely different animal, Enfield's hire continues to give me hope ... little hope, but hope nonetheless.
- Only reach out to top-notch coaches WITH HEAD COACHING EXPERIENCE. There is no reason anyone lacking such a prerequisite should ever walk through HH on their way to a HCing interview. Never!
- Although NFL pedigree is of some value, I'd be very disappointed, but not surprised, if Swann chooses goes in that direction as that's likely his comfort zone. A selection of JDR or Fisher, although imo better than Clay, would affirm NOTHING has changed. Could they turn out like PC, possibly, but highly unlikely.
- Somehow, someway figure out a way to fully embrace/support the new HC and allow him to distance himself from those who may distract or subvert his efforts. Yes, I'm talkin' Big Boy Donors.
Peace, out.
#uglystart