In 2008, when the Auburn Tigers hired Gene Chizik, Charles Barkley was outraged. Now he pulled out the race card, blah blah I won't get into that. However, following Auburn somewhat and just watching ESPN on a regular basis there is no doubt Gene Chizik knows what he is doing. The Tigers dealt with much scrutiny under a microscope thanks to Cam Newton and that whole situation. He did a hell of a job managing and keeping the guys focused on the present task and not placing emphasis on off the field allegations.
Chizik was 5-19 during his two year stint as head coach of Iowa State, which is a downright awful record, I'll side with Barkley on that. But to say his resume was the worst of the applicants when applying to fill in Tubervilles job is insane. First off this isn't his first rodeo at Auburn, in 2004 he was the defensive coordinator and that team went on to be 13-0 and finished number 2 in the country in the final rankings. Secondly, he was the defensive coordinator at Texas when they won the Nat'l Championship against USC. Gene has been seasoned being successful in the past. Just because he didn't have success at Iowa State doesn't make him a poor choice. Look at Bill Belichick, he coached with the Browns for 5 years starting in 1991 and only had one above .500 season. Then he goes on to the Patriots and everyone knows how that story is unfolding.
I don't dislike Charles, in fact I think he's hilarious and I understand he's known for being outspoken. But with that said before we bash a hire, lets give the guy a year or two. Who knows maybe that guy you didn't want will bring your alma mater an undefeated season, Heisman Trophy winning QB and a National Championship.
With all that said, congrats to Auburn and Gene Chizik with a great season and deserving of the Nat'l Championship. Kudos.
Big Cat
