A coach’s commitment to his players and team is one the, if not the, most important characteristics of a successful head coach.  When a recruit makes a promise to play for a university he does so with the good faith that the coach who recruited him will be there to guide him for his career.  Today it’s very rare for a coach to fulfill his end of the obligation.  He is either looking for a better job or is being replaced by a “better” coach.  Only the most successful and committed coaches can pull it off. Continue Reading “Commitment vs. Contract: Which one wins in college football?” »

College football teams are made up of a diverse group of players. Some were walk-ons, others were highly touted high school recruits looking to go pro and the rest are student athletes.  A coach worthy to be called Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year has to motivate each type of player to produce wins on the field.

Since taking over the helm of Texas Tech in 2000 coach Mike Leach is an impressive 75-37.  This year the Red Raiders are a perfect 10-0 and are trying to make the jump from good to elite program.  They have their eyes set on the elusive BCS National Championship and Coach Leach has won with a variety of players.

Continue Reading “Managing a winning team, while motivating individual players.” »

On the field victories are only one part of being a successful college football coach. A football season only lasts for four months, but year round coaches need to monitor and motivate their students inside the classroom.

After a thrilling 24-17 road victory against No. 17 Minnesota, Northwestern moved to 7-2 on the year and locked up a bowl berth.  Third year head coach Pat Fitzgerald took over the program after the unexpected death of Randy Walker. Most expected the short lived success under Coach Walker to dwindle. However, not only has Coach Fitzgerald been successful on the field, but his players excel academically and graduate college.

In 2008 Northwestern had a NCAA graduation success rate of 92%, which was tied for third best in the nation.  Bowl bids and graduating players speak volumes about what a great coach of both students and athletes Pat Fitzgerald is. The Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year recipient exhibits both excellence on and off the field. I believe Coach Fitzgerald is a fine candidate for such a prestigious award.  20% of the selection process consists of a fan vote. Currently Coach Fitzgerald is 11^th in fan voting. If you feel strongly like I do that Coach Fitzgerald is the best choice for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year, or if you feel strongly about another coach, I encourage you to vote.