Body blows that Oklahoma, Texas delivered the Big 12 will have profound impact on coaching carousel
With Big 12 revenues destined to shrink and recruiting made more daunting by the lack of being able to sell a top conference, Iowa State's Matt Campbell may turn to more of a traditional football factory.sports.yahoo.com
What happens to Iowa State's Matt Campbell?
The Cyclones head coach would already have been atop the wish list at places like Michigan and USC, which are both expected to have openings if the schools don't have outstanding seasons.
Campbell has been inordinately loyal to Ames, as he has resisted overtures the past few seasons from the highest levels of college and the NFL. Ames has been a perfect bubble for Campbell, who loves digging in with his team and is ambivalent toward the front facing parts of the job like media and engaging with boosters.
Iowa State has been able to thrive building what he likes to call a "life factory," not a "football factory."
But with Big 12 revenues destined to shrink and recruiting made more daunting by the lack of being able to sell a top conference, Campbell may turn to more of a traditional football factory.
He has pushed Iowa State through some glass ceilings, including four consecutive bowls for the first time in school history and a breakthrough Fiesta Bowl victory on the national state last season. He has built a staff fiercely loyal to him.
Can that last forever?
With 19 starters returning, this feels like a last call for Campbell in Ames. He should be able to have his pick of jobs in college and interest in the NFL.
The dilemma of Campbell doubles as the issue for the Big 12.
"Can you afford the coach?" asked a Big 12 source. "You could based on current revenues. But for the future, that's the uncertain part of it. The second piece is perception. Are you at the same level? Does the coach see it through that lens? Do they think their job just got harder? Is recruiting harder?"
Well Nebraska will be looking for a coach. Maybe there’s hope for you there