1.The feel good story about the local guy returning home
2. The not unreasonable expectation that he'd be able to tap into the incredible talent pool here in Florida..especially Hillsborough County.
3. This is the best one. Most felt that he'd have the program turned around, and winning, in 2-3 years, and that because of his local roots, he wouldn't then jump to a better job.
Everyone is very hopeful Willie T works out for you. He’s still loved here. We were all very patient with him (time management, teaching slapping at players not arm wrap-a-round tackling, hard-headed on position assignments, some crazy play calling)—but the speculation is you all won’t be as patient because you’re down in “football is god” territory.
He does come from good stock—from the Harbaugh camp. And Jack Harbaugh brought WKU a Division 1AA national championship in 2002. I also remember when we had a home and home series with the Bulls when you all first started football (not to mention you all used to be in the Sun Belt for basketball years ago). So we all wish him and USF well.
Willie is a very good recruiter...still needs coaching/ management maturity. That’s pretty much the consensus around these parts.