Jon Gruden to the SEC?

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Jon Gruden still aiming for return to coaching, this time in college football: 'I'd die to coach in the SEC'

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Jon Gruden, the former NFL coach who resigned in 2021 amid controversy over offensive emails, has made it clear he wants back on the sidelines. But coaching college football in the vaunted SEC? Gruden says he would jump at the chance.

"The only reason I really came here is I want to coach again," Gruden said during a speaking engagement with the Georgia Bulldogs. "I'm being honest with you, I do not bullshite, either. I want to coach again. I'd die to coach in the SEC. I would love it. I would f---ing love it."

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Several college athletic directors acknowledged to CBS Sports last fall that while Gruden's past remains a significant hurdle, there could be opportunities for him at some schools, particularly those outside the Power Four willing to take calculated risks. 

Yet, the idea of him coaching in the SEC -- arguably the most competitive and scrutinized college football conference -- adds layers of complexity. SEC administrators have described Gruden as "untouchable" at that level due to potential backlash over his unceremonious exit for the unveiling of racist, anti-gay and misogynistic emails.

Still, Gruden's passion for the game remains evident, and he clearly sees college football as the best avenue for a coaching comeback.

"I'm going to tell you guys this: What I know about the SEC is it's getting harder," Gruden said. "The SEC's getting harder. They tell me Texas is in the SEC -- oh! They tell me Oklahoma's in the SEC ... You know who your biggest opponent is -- you. You're your biggest opponent. Ego. That's your biggest opponent. Greed, jealousy, your cell phone. You guys dig it. You got to make sure you're in charge of you. You bring your best self in here every night, and you'll see how great you can become."

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