Michigan's move could help Buffs
Michigan's hiring of West Virginia football coach Rich Rodriguez could help the Buffs next year when the Mountaineers come to town.
As CU fans are acutely aware, coaching changes often lead to shifts in philosophy and a steep learning curve for a football team. It was the case for the Buffs when Dan Hawkins was hired two years ago.
It could be for West Viriginia as well. depending on who the school chooses to hire to replace Rodriguez.
But here is where I think the move helps the Buffs most. Nothing has been decided yet, but I'd be very surprised to see both quarterback Pat White and tailback Steve Slaton return to Morgantown next season.
Both were considered Heisman candidates at the outset of the 2007 season and both will play in the National Football League. I'm betting both will opt to turn pro because of the coaching change and that will only help the Buffs.
There is still plenty of talent on the West Virginia roster if those two players leave, but the Mountaineers would be better with White and Steve Slaton than without them.
It will be interesting to see how this develops and who is hired. Our columnist Neill Woelk pointed out that the Mountaineers will be one of five teams the Buffs play in 2008 who will be breaking in new coaches. I think that bodes well for the Buffs, but it doesn't necessarily guarantee anything.
In case you're wondering, the other teams with new coaches on the Buffs schedule next season are Colorado State, Eastern Washington, Texas A&M and Nebraska.
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