The biggest news to come out of Urban Meyer‘s press conference this afternoon was the fact that the coach’s gut was telling him that he would be the Gators’ head coach when 2010 rolls around.
Arguably the second biggest news to come out was that his leave of absence wouldn’t start until after the Gators’ Sugar Bowl match-up with Cincinnati on New Year’s Day.
According to Meyer in his press conference, it’s balls to the walls for the UF coach as his team prepares for the BcS bowl against the Bearcats. Only then will offensive coordinator Steve Addazio grab the reins on an interim basis.
“It’s full speed ahead. We’re going to do everything possible to win this game,” Meyer said when talking about the bowl game.
Needless to say, Meyer is free to do whatever he wants, especially when his health and the best interests of his family are concerned.
The thing is, though, when will this sabbatical come to an end? Are we talking two months? Three or four? A calendar year?
Coach Meyer has every right to look out for his health and his family. In fact, that’s his obligation as a husband and a father. There’s no question about that.
But, on the flip side, Gator Nation, and Meyer’s employers, have every right to ask when -- or if -- he will return as their head coach. A head coach who will still be paid very handsomely, even as the economic climate at the very institution that is employing him is not exactly conducive to a flattering perception of an extended paid leave of absence.
I wish nothing but the best for Coach Meyer.
I also wish nothing but a speedy resolution to this coaching situation for the University of Florida and their fans.
Both deserve it. Equally.
