re: If Harsin Was Nate Oats, Would The Whole CFB World Be Different?

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If Harsin Was Nate Oats, Would The Whole CFB World Be Different?

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Oats was 16-15 overall, below .500 and finished 9th in the SEC his first season. Even with CV19 canceling the post-season, fighting for an NIT bid isn't "coming out blazing."

Saban was 6-6 his first regular season and lost to ULM. He needed to squeak out an Independence Bowl win over Colorado to stay above .500 (still recall how excited I was during that game; my how we've been spoiled).

Not saying Harsin's yr 2 will meet the success of either of the other 2, and I'm sure it is unfair expectation to measure against either, as so much luck, timing, and circumstance go into it all.

I think Harsin had a similarly significant challenge in team culture, toughness, and attitude that he has managed well. Injuries have not helped a roster devoid of depth and overall talent either. That said, I still think he has managed it as well as can reasonably be expected and AU has looked like a tough nosed football team at times. Recruiting may eat his lunch if he doesn't get help in transfer portal and get after it year round, but he should get 3-4 yrs under his belt before saying he's flamed out.