And why wouldn't he be? After all, West Virginia University has lost two excellent coaches in 2007 to Michigan. Gov. Manchin examined the situation and came to the conclusion that "high-priced agents" are to blame. In a press release, he writes, "[U]nfortunately, over the last two years, I have seen Rich become a victim of a college coaching system driven by high-priced agents that has turned those dreams into just another back-room business deal...I wish Rich and his family nothing but the best, but I challenge everyone in our state and across this country to start looking more closely at the system that we’ve allowed these agents to create, because in the end, it serves no one well but them."
Is this Governor serious? The notion that agents are the creators and only exploiters of the marketplace for college coaches is beyond absurd. Rich Rodriguez's agent gets paid roughly 5% of the total value of the coaching deal. The other 95% goes to his client, Coach Rodriguez. Using Gov. Manchin's illogical thinking, it is Rodriguez who deserves the majority of blame, not agents. Back to reality: The marketplace for college coaches is created wholly by what one institution believes a particular coach is worth. Let's hope Gov. Manchin understands basic economic theory a bit better when it comes to more important affairs of his state.
--Marc Isenberg
Related post: The interesting market for college football coaches
Marc's book, Money Players now available here. And on amazon.com.
Ridiculous argument by the governor. I can't believe he's serious. The coach himself, the one who decided to leave his alma mater for a better deal, is exonerated...but Mr. 5% is the very convenient scapegoat. And this guy is running an entire state?
Posted by: Jeff Fellenzer | December 17, 2007 at 09:19 AM
A typical politician...assign blame outside your voting constituency. Interesting that this statement was posted on Scout.com courtesy of "WVU SID release".
Posted by: Randy | December 17, 2007 at 09:34 AM
Who put the idea in Michigan's head that Rodriguez might be interested in their job? Did they just run down a list of Division I coaches and start making phone calls - or did someone on the inside alert Michigan that Rodriguez was available? While I think the Governor's emphasis is wrong, he may be right about how this all went down.
Posted by: John Fairplay | December 17, 2007 at 10:32 AM
BETRAYED!! As a West Virginian and Fan, I am furious that we were tossed away like an old penny for the shiny nickel (Michigan) I wish that school the worst and to not coach the bowl game so he can get his new school together!!!!! Thanks for thinking of the team that got you there COACH. I am sure their minds will be ready for game. $#&@*(
Posted by: J Evans | December 17, 2007 at 10:51 AM
Fairplay--Process of elimination is how...Miles and Shiano said no. So UM went for the next "hottest" coach available. The agent was like a wingman helping a guy accomplish what he clearly wanted.
Posted by: WiIly | December 17, 2007 at 11:04 AM
WV has every right to feel jilted, but that's how the business of college sports gets done. Big Blue did to WV (twice) exactly what WV did to K-State when it went after a basketball coach who had only been there one season. You think K-State fans felt betrayed?
Posted by: Frogger | December 17, 2007 at 11:10 AM
Would someone please tell Joe Manchin to shut up? After all, it was also Joe Manchin's idea that WVU play a game with Marshall!
Posted by: Chris Baker | December 17, 2007 at 03:47 PM
A coaching choice is just that...a "coaching" choice. Yes, agents help finish the deal, but the coach has to agree to the terms. If Rich was so happy at WV, why would he have wanted to move? Because he's going to one of the top colleges in the country with a long tradition of winning. Coaches should never say anything close to the fact that they're "happy and wouldn't consider moving"...you dangle a carrot, the mule will chase. You don't see coaches stay at one school for a long tenure anymore. Well, except for Joe Pa. You talk about tough shoes to fill? Wait until he retires. Then you'll see how many "faithful" coaches that are chomping at the bit to get that job!
I'm an Ohio State fan, but I've always respected coach Lloyd Carr. Those are some hard shoes to fill! I wish Rich the best of luck, until the end of November!!!
Posted by: Doug Maxwell | December 18, 2007 at 04:30 AM
Uhm, aren't there more pressing issues in West Virginia for politicians to deal with besides who coaches a football team?
Posted by: Tim Edward | December 21, 2007 at 01:19 PM