<p>There has been much talk about the next coach. Contrary to rumor, Harbaugh is still in the running. Just because he expressed interest in the NFL in the past does not mean he will choose such a path. So far, I have heard of five possibilities. Which ones do you think are likely...and which ones do you think are good?</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Jim Harbaugh: Michigan legend who understands Michigan way. Has an impressive record at less than impressive programs.</p></li>
<li><p>Brady Hoke: Coached at Michiga under Carr and understands the system and the expectations. Has a proven track record of building programs into winners.</p></li>
<li><p>Les Miles: Played and coached at Michigan and knows the program and tradition well. Has a proven record of winning at a major program in a major conference. Has a national championship ring.</p></li>
<li><p>Gary Patterson: Has no connection to Michigan and no experience with a major program or a major conference, but has shown an ability to develop a program into a consistant winner. Led TCU to an undefeated season in 2010, including a win over Wisconsin at the Rose Bow. Clearly, he can coach</p></li>
<li><p>Jon Gruden: The only coach on the list to have extensive NFL experience. Unfortunately, he has no real college headcoaching experience. Like Patterson, has no connection to Michigan. However, he led Tampa Bay to a Superbowl championship in 2002. However, his success in the NFL was mixed, with mediocre seasons that eventually led to his dismissal as coach of the Bucs. </p></li>
</ol>
<p>Les Miles had a bowl game coming up, which is why he was not contacted…and even if he were, he would not admit. I think we have a good shot at Miles.</p>
<p>I think Miles at 57 is at the upper age for what Michigan should be after if they want a coach that will be in place more than a few years. I saw Pete Bigelow mention Pat Fitzgerald. Not a bad thought - could be a 20 year guy.</p>
<p>^^^Pat Fitzgerald is at his dream job. He went and played for NU, his wife went to NU, and he is from that area. He is not going to come to Michigan.</p>
<p>Yeah, Fitz said he’s definitely staying at his alma mater. Plus i don’t think we wanna steal another dude from his alma mater like we did 3 years ago hah.</p>
<p>Les Miles and Brady Hoke are the only two possible outcomes at this stage. Michigan is going to bring in a Michigan man. I hope it is Les, although I hear Hoke as a lot of potential.</p>
<p>Well they are most likely the top choices at the moment but what if they both say no? I would rather have Gruden than Hoke and I actually hear that he has been interviewed and is tempted which is shocking to me. We’ll see what happens.</p>
<p>MLDWoody-no offense, but I’m glad you’re not a part of the coaching search. First when we thought it would be either Harbaugh or RichRod you were begging for RR (WHY???) and now you don’t want Les Miles?!?! The best candidate all along! For what reason at all would Brady Hoke be a better candidate than Les Miles? Hoke has a 47-50 career record at San Diego St. and Miles has something like 62-17 with a National Championship at LSU. The ONLY reason Hoke is even in the discussion is because he was a d-line coach here a while back. Does that even make you a Michigan Man because RR coached here for three years and he certainly isn’t. At least you don’t make the decisions.</p>
<p>LSU is now LOWERING the buyout and did not make a new contract offer in their 24 hour grace period. He was moving towards the hot seat with some boosters this year and this is probably it. Les Miles come on down.</p>
<p>@eziamm… I wanted RRod to stay to give his Offense another year and to allow either the Defense to heal/grow up or for a new DC to be hired. RRod is a good coach and will probably do well wherever he lands (Pitt). The problem was no one here ever gave him a chance. Just because you disagree with my opinion doesn’t mean its wrong.</p>
<p>Also I nvr was a big candidate for Hoke. Les Miles has been riding a streak of luck lately though. He could have easily had a lot worse record this season and then would we have still wanted him? There are flaws in Les Miles’ coaching that I am sure Brandon and everyone else looking into him saw. As for Hoke, I really can’t say. I do not know enough about the guy.</p>
<p>I still believe Gruden is our best choice. A proven, super bowl winning HC. He will bring in all of the recruits with NFL aspirations. Surround him with a knowledgable staff and you’re golden.</p>
<p>Gruden is a choice. I am pretty sure if he wasn’t a choice you couldn’t bet on him on Vegas. Yeah that’s not the best evidence, but a 10:1 bet means he is at least a choice.</p>