Iam not a huge Chris Speilman fan or supporter of the whole ESPN plus coverage in general. Just because a former Ohio State and NFL linebacker can put together a few complete sentences every now and then does not mean he should cover a football game.
During the Badger game against Illinois this past Saturday, I became even more skeptical, as he mentioned head coach Barry Alvarez. Though he is set to retire at the conclusion of this season, says people who are close to Alvarez believe 'Barry still has the coaching drive left in him.'
That may be true. However, let's examine Alvarez on the sideline for any other team. It is unrealistic if you examine his possible destinations other than Madison.
Notre Dame: Out of the question. First year head coach Charlie Weis has instilled new life in South Bend and was recently rewarded with a new 10-year contact extension. Alvarez served as defensive coordinator for the Irish under Lou Holtz and his name was linked to the recent job openings.
However, Weis figures to be at Notre Dame for the conceivable future and Alvarez does not have time to wait for him to potentially crumble. The Irish head coaching position may be the greatest job in America, but Alvarez not longer figures into their equation.
Iowa: Alvarez got his first taste of college coaching in 1987, spending eight years learning under the tutelage of former Hawkeye head coach Hayden Frye. He commonly speaks of Frye as someone from whom he learned a enormous deal. Alvarez may be tempted to make a return to his roots.
The problem is that this job is also secured by current head coach Kirk Ferentz. His name was linked to NFL jobs a year ago after he lead the Hawkeyes to a 10-2 record and a BCS bowl victory over LSU. He provided his loyalty a year ago and expects to man the Iowa sidelines for the time being. Additionally, don't expect Alvarez to bolt to another Big Ten team, he has more pride than that. It's not like he has a tattoo of a Hawkeye on his calf...
Finally, the University of Miami: Alvarez was almost lured south when former UW chancellor Donna Shalala took over as the President of the University of Miami in 2001. Alvarez has a home in Florida and current Hurricanes head coach Larry Coker, at age 57, may be nearing the end of his career.
This indeed is the most realistic scenario. Alvarez could sit out a few years and take over the Hurricanes in 2007 or 2008, but it's unlikely. He too would be nearing the age of 60 at this time and would be more content on the golf course than dealing with college criminals from Florida.
Oh yeah, there is also his alma mater, Nebraska. The Cornhuskers are a mess and Alvarez lacks the time to elevate another program from the cellar. No go.
After covering Alvarez for the past three years, I see a person who is truly ready to step down. Not only do I applaud his choice (defensive coordinator Bret Bielema) but also the timing of the decision. He is now ensured to go out on top, as the Badgers have a realistic chance of participating in a BCS bowl.
So what lies in Alvarez's future? My guess is politics. Alvarez loves the celebrity/limelight of Madison (if one does even exist) and he would be a perfect fit as mayor of the city. Alvarez elevated himself from a coach to a symbol years ago and he would be a perfect representation of this city.
But then again, what do I know? I predicted Devin would stay for his senior year.
Jon is a senior majoring in English and Journalism. He does the damn thing every Wednesday and can be reached for comment at jrmcnamara@wisc.edu.
