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Can't Defend Charlie Weis Anymore
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
It was a little more than two weeks ago that I spent some time defending Charlie Weis. At the time, I suggested that the feelings of the players on his team ought to be taken into consideration.
And of course, he certainly was not causing the Irish the kind of embarrassment a previous hire had brought upon the school.
But then came the last ten days and well, even a New England Patriots fan would have to have some concerns. Yes even those crooning on the Boston blog sites that it was time for Weis and Romeo Crennel reunite with Master Belichick.
First, there was the incredible comments attributed to Weis that were apparently uttered regarding USC's Pete Carroll. An interview transcript from the site IrishIllustrated.com quoted Weis as taking this shot at Carroll.
"Let me ask you this question: You guys know about things that go on in different places. Was I living with a grad student in Malibu, or was I living with my wife in my house? You could bet that if I were living with a grad student here in South Bend, it would be national news.
"He's doing it in Malibu and it's not national news. What's the difference? I don't understand. Why is it OK for one guy to do things like that, but for me, I'm scrutinized when I swear. I'm sorry for swearing; absolve my sins."
Weis insisted that the comments were taken out of context and according to news sources, he called Carroll to apologize for the misunderstanding.
Taken out of context or not, the statements were scathing and hurtful. And there could be no doubt as to who Charlie was talking about.
Then came the latest, the press conference with Golden Tate and Jimmy Clausen, the one where he went on record as endorsing the two were ready for the NFL. Maybe he was trying to support two guys that had his back earlier, but the press was quick to note that the loss of the Irish two best players certainly would make it harder for Weis' replacement to experience any initial first year success. So was Charlie supporting his guys or helping throw the program under the bus for having dismissed him. Clearly, his presence was a severe conflict of interest and he should not have put himself in such a position.
I still don't know who the Irish will wind up with as a coach - I can't see the likes of Stoops or Meyer heading to a school where entrance requirements are significant and graduating players is as important as winning.
But I can no longer defend Weis, even if the players did have his back, even if he did what colleges are supposed to do, graduate young adults. I understand now why those who would want to stick a fork into the guy had no problems doing so.
Tom Hanson is the editor for OpenEducation.net and a frequent contributor to CollegeScholarships.org and GoCollege.com.
5:03 PM
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