Rodriguez: "The Most Difficult Decision in my Professional Career"
Rodriguez: "The Most Difficult Decision in my Professional Career" Save Email Print
Posted: 2:29 PM Dec 16, 2007
 Last Updated: 5:27 AM Dec 18, 2007
 Reporter: WSAZ & The Associated Press
Email Address: news@wsaz.com
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UPDATE 9am Monday
Notes from the 9am introductory press conference:

 
As a WVU fan, do you feel betrayed by Coach Rod?
Yes
No
 

Michigan Athletic Director Bill Martin introduced Rodriguez is a person with "strong character who truly cares about his players."

Coach Rich Rodriguez said this was a difficult decision. He said it would take a special opportunity for him to leave WVU and this was it.

Rodriguez said the first year is always difficult no matter where you go, but he thinks this transition will be smooth. Rodriguez said several members of his WVU staff will join him, including Offensive Coordinator Calvin Magee and Tony Gibson, his secondary coach. Rodriguez says they know "our system." He says they are the kind of people any coach would want on their staff.

Rodriguez doesn't want to be a distraction to Michigan as it prepare for its bowl. He has also not spoken with WVU about whether or not to coach the Mountaineers in the Fiesta Bowl.

Rodriguez said the mayor of Toledo gave him former Michigan coach Bo Schembechler's book last night.

Rodriguez called WVU a "great place." He said many supporters have called and congratulated him and there are some that are upset and will stay so, but he said he hopes that people in West Virginia will look at what he's done in the last seven years and realize he's left it in a good situation. He's excited to be back with his "good friend John Beilein," Michigan's basketball coach who came over from WVU earlier this year.

Rodriguez said some of his workouts will be unpleasant but also fun. He said he knows there are great expectations at UM. He said he'd rather go to a place where they expect success instead of hope to have it.

Rodriguez will go back to Morgantown this afternoon. He plans to talk with Michigan's outgoing coach Lloyd Carr about his plans for returning soon. He will leave it up to Coach Carr as to whether he can attend bowl practice for UM.

Rodriguez said he got three hours of sleep last night, so he feels good. He said his head has been spinning for the last few days.

Rodriguez called it "the most difficult decision I've made in my professional career." He said telling his players at WVU Sunday was the toughest day of his professional career.

Rodriguez said his lawyers are working on his $4 million buyout clause in his contract with WVU. "The money thing was not an issue in this decision," Rodriguez said.

"I'm big on learning the names and them knowing my family's names," Rodriguez said when describing his family atmopshere in coaching.

On the Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry: "It's one of the greatest rivalries in college football," Rodriguez said. He also pointed out other rivalries with Michigan State and Notre Dame. He says that's unique for UM.

Rodriguez described the courting process from UM as very quick. He wouldn't elaborate, because he said it's in the past.

On coaching WVU in the Fiesta Bowl:
I'm a little naive in that situation, but usually the university makes that decision," Rodriguez said. He said it would be uncomfortable and his focus will be on Michigan. UM will allow Rodriguez to coach WVU in the bowl game if possible. He wants his staffers that will be joining him at Michigan to stay and coach the Mountaineers in the bowl.
"I would expect and assume that WVU will have an interim coach for the bowl," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez hopes this is his last job in coaching.
"I will plan to retire here. I'm 44. I don't want to go as long as some of my colleagues," Rodriguez said. He estimated he'd stick at UM for 14 years, including a tongue in cheek reference to coaching his young son at UM beginning in 2017.

On Michigan's tradition:
"Do you have to be a Michigan man to be a Michigan coach? Gosh, I hope not, they hired me. But you have to have great respect and admiration for what they've done in the past and I have that," Rodriguez said.

On Coach Don Nehlen's involvement in the process:
"I talked to Coach (Nehlen) after the initial conversation a little bit," Rodriguez said. He said Nehlen called him twice. He said he's excited for him. He said they'd love it at UM.

On leaving his program at WVU:
"I think the players understand more than some of the general public," Rodriguez said. "It's never easy." Rodriguez says the young men at WVU can handle adversity and will be fine.

Rodriguez said he doesn't have his entire staff in my mind, but he will bring others from WVU. He also wants to interview several of the staff members at UM.

On Recruiting:
Rodriguez said he's already called a handful of recruits that he can't mention by name and he'll call some more. He doesn't believe he'll have to recruit a different type of athlete for UM.

Rodriguez said he had a similiar situation when he was hired at WVU where the Mountaineers were in a bowl game with another coach. He adjusted and plans to do that at UM.

Rodriguez said there were a lot of positive things at WVU that were going on, from the academic center to the locker room. He said the people who supported the program at WVU were unbelievable. He said some of them are his dear friends and are still his dear friends.

On being the third choice for the job (after LSU's Les Miles and Rutgers' Greg Schiano):
"I might have been my wife's third choice too," Rodriguez said. He said he didn't ask and he doesn't care.


UPDATE @ 8:17pm
A top quarterback recruit hinted today he's considering Michigan now that Rich Rodriguez has taken the head coaching job there.

“I just spoke to Coach Rodriguez about 10 minutes ago and he told me he is going to Michigan,” the QB, Terrelle Pryor, told Superprep.com's Bob Lichtenfels. “He said they made him an offer he can't refuse.”

Pryor is from Jeannette, Pa., where he led his high school team to a Class AA state championship. He also told the recruiting site that he wanted to "add Michigan to (his) list." West Virginia had been on the list of schools he is considering.


UPDATE @ 5:50pm
Governor Joe Manchin released a statement Sunday regarding Rich Rodriguez's departure from WVU:

The last seven years that Rich Rodriguez has been football coach at West Virginia University brought great excitement to our fans and tremendous and positive notoriety to our state, and I am truly sad that he has made the decision to move on.

I have known Rich for most of his life, from a boy whose only wish was to play football at WVU to a young man whose only wish was to coach at WVU. His dreams came true, and he brought back with him to West Virginia a love and a loyalty for our state that I thought would never change.

But, unfortunately, 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. Something is wrong with the profession of college coaching today when a leader’s word is no longer his bond, and it does not bode well for the student-athletes who entrust these coaches with their futures.

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.

I can’t say enough about the WVU fans and financial boosters who have made such tremendous commitments to this football team, and I commend President Garrison and Athletic Director Ed Pastilong for having a program that is truly worthy of the national spotlight. I also trust them and the WVU Board of Governors completely with the coaching search that now lies ahead.

In the meantime, I encourage the people and fans of West Virginia to continue to show their support and respect for our tremendous student-athletes as they prepare to compete in front of a national audience in the Fiesta Bowl.

- Gov. Joe Manchin III


UPDATE @ 4:45pm
From the Associated Press

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) - West Virginia University found itself reeling today from the news that football coach Rich Rodriguez is leaving for the University of Michigan.

Cornerback Vaughn Rivers says it's been a rough day.

Rodriguez informed his players before practice this afternoon.

Rivers said Rodriguez was emotional to the point of tears, but did not elaborate on his decision.

Fullback Owen Schmitt says Rodriguez did all he could for his players and for the university.

Associate head coach Bill Stewart and offensive coordinator Calvin Magee ran the brief practice in Rodriguez's place. But there's no immediate word on who will coach West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl.

WVU President Mike Garrison says the coaching change will do nothing to lessen the support for the players in Phoenix.


UPDATE @ 3:05pm
From the Associated Press
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) - After a search that took nearly a month, Michigan has hired West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez as its next football coach.

The school plans to introduce Rodriguez at a news conference tomorrow (Monday) morning.

Rodriguez will take over for Lloyd Carr, who announced his retirement November 19th after 13 seasons. Carr plans to coach the Wolverines in the Capital One Bowl on January 1st against ninth-ranked Florida.

Rodriguez has a 60-and-20 record at West Virginia. The eleventh-ranked Mountaineers have gone 10-and-2 this season and will play Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl.

His contract at West Virginia runs through the 2013 season and includes a four million-dollar buyout clause.

Michigan also interviewed LSU's Les Miles and Rutgers' Greg Schiano for the job but both coaches decided to stay put at their schools.

It's not the first time a West Virginia coach has bolted for Ann Arbor. Basketball coach John Beilein took over at Michigan last April.


ORIGINAL STORY
WVU Football Coach Rich Rodriguez has announced he's leaving to take the head coaching job at the University of Michigan.

Our sister station, WDTV, is reporting that Rodriguez told his team at a 1:30pm meeting that he's resigning and will take the head coaching job at Michigan.

WSAZ first reported Friday that Rodriguez had taken a private flight to and from Toledo to meet with Michigan officials. When he got off the plan in Morgantown, he only told reporters that he "was going to practice."

During his weekly news conference Saturday, Rodriguez refused to talk about his trip to Toledo, and even threatened to end the news conference prematurely if more questions were asked about that topic.

Rodriguez is replacing Lloyd Carr, who retired in November after being with the Wolverines for 13 years.

Stay with WSAZ.com for more information.
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Posted by: Davud on Dec 19, 2007 at 05:26 PM
You can't blame Rich for taking a HUGE JOB OFFER AT A BIG SCHOOL. Rich made WVU a lot of money. If WVU really wanted to keep him all they had to do was loosen the purse strings. Who among us would not take a job that offered more money. If ANYONE was offered twice their salary or more to do the same job at a place just as nice or better we would ALL TAKE IT. Cut Rich some slack.
Posted by: Chuck on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:17 PM
TO Richard: If you get that job..I hope it's not Secretary work..Your typing sux bud
Posted by: Roger on Dec 19, 2007 at 02:02 PM
Being a Marshall I really feel bad about what Rick Rod did to the WVU fans, being in the Christmas spitit we Marshall fans would like to offer WVU our head coach Mark Snider. PLEASE TAKE HIM!!!!!
Posted by: Chuck on Dec 19, 2007 at 01:13 PM
Do you all remember what Rod's statement was when West Virginia hired him and when Alabama tried to recruit him? "I will retire a Mountaineer" Guess what that is what he said at MU "I am here to retire" I hope his retirement is close because he is not BIG-10 material......GO BUCKS....And I am not even a BUCK Fan...
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:20 PM
wvu has played no one good at all this year if they are so big and bad play big ten teams you all cry like little girls and are gov is crying gov get real its just a game impeach him now
Posted by: dave on Dec 19, 2007 at 11:37 AM
Why don't you change the name to WVBoo-Hoo.
Posted by: richard on Dec 19, 2007 at 06:32 AM
well see what happens when you all run your mouth rick did not have any reason to leave wva until you all blamed him for loseing the pitt game. the best team in the world can lose a game if they have a bad day.and all of can not stand there and say you whould not do the same thing if you had a good job that payed you 80,000 a year and full benifites and good retrtement and some other co. offered you the same job at a anouther co. for 100,000 and every thing the same that you whould not take it COME ON NOW I KNOW YOU WHOULD BECAUSE i WHOULD
Posted by: ML on Dec 19, 2007 at 01:37 AM
The Opening Statement of this article is funny, “Bill Martin introduced Rodriguez as a person with "strong character who truly cares about his players.” If this strong character person is so compassionate about his players then why leave WV before the most important game? Some of Rodriguez comments refer to making this choice with the help of his family? What about The Mountaineers did they have a say? I think not. However, the voices of mad WV Fans will not change what Rodriguez has done for the football team of WV. Maybe it is better for him to go to UM because he doesn’t seem to have the faith in WV or he would not have said “he’d rather go to a place where they expect success instead of hope to have it.” Maybe this is what the players of WV needs to put a little fire under them to win the fiesta bowl. Yes, they lost a coach; however, they did not lose the talent that is on that team. With great support and love from the fans this team can survive and grow from this experience.
Posted by: Eers Fan on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:55 AM
Poor Uncle Rod...just couldn't pay the bills on 2 million a year. Tell that to the people of WV that have supported you for 7 years!! He once said that coaching WVU was his dream, funny how dreams change when the salaries get bigger. Its all about money folks.
Posted by: BILL on Dec 18, 2007 at 11:51 PM
A very shameful act to say the least. I hope he pays every nickel back to WVU. I will be backing OSU every year and hope they continue to beat MSU every year that they possibily can. I never liked Michigan even before this act of betrayal. Too much of a "we are so great" attitude. Besides, GO HERD!!!!
Posted by: jp on Dec 18, 2007 at 10:43 PM
to Real Herd Fan: Whatever you are on I want some of it. You are totally ignorant if you think that Marshall (with it's C-USA) schedule would ever compare to WV's schedule. GET a life you need it.
Posted by: tommy on Dec 18, 2007 at 08:44 PM
he threw the Pitt game!!! To benefit Mich to get to the Rose bowl? Think about it.
Posted by: NO! NO! NO! on Dec 18, 2007 at 08:16 PM
It seems Rodriguez by accepting a job in Ann Arbor has announced he is in favor of violating the American's with disabilities act. Hey Michigan - you ought to be spending your $4 million on complying with the American's With Disabilities Act. Unless of course, your Office of General Counsel's Gloria Hage is so desperate for litigation that she expects him to sue for breech of employment contract when he Rodriguez realizes his been duped into coming to a school where there is no football team because there is no football stadium. Get a life Mr. Rodriguez --- but not here in Michigan. We U.S. Veterans - -make that "WE THE PEOPLE" don't need your brand of smoke and mirrors. The only bowl Michigan will be playing in - whether or not you come - is the toilet bowl.
Posted by: DB on Dec 18, 2007 at 06:42 PM
He needs to change his name to Rich Rodleaveus.
Posted by: PittHappens on Dec 18, 2007 at 06:22 PM
This just in...After a devastating 52-7 loss to Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl last year...Marshall drives the dagger in the heart of Morgantown in the 2008 Coal Bowl leaving WVU to pick up the pieces wondering where to go from here.
Posted by: Tater Hater on Dec 18, 2007 at 06:21 PM
What's that in the distance? The glow of smoldering couches which have been soaked with Mountaineer "fan" tears. You people are crazy; first you want him fired after you couldn't get to the title game with the easiest schedule known to man, then you whine and holler when he rolls out. Hurry and jump on the next bandwagon that comes around you fair-weather fans.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 18, 2007 at 04:38 PM
GET OVER IT!!! IT'S ONLY FOOTBALL!!!! LIFE STILL GOES ON!!
Posted by: Derek on Dec 18, 2007 at 04:37 PM
I can understand taking the prestige and bigger money, but it really stinks to leave your team before the bowl game.
Posted by: WVU fan on Dec 18, 2007 at 04:16 PM
It wouldn't be so bad if he had done this differently. I can understand the opportunity of taking a struggling team and turning it around like he did with WVU when he came here. But to think about leaving last year and getting more money and staying; then doing the same thing this year - come on coach! And what a bad time to leave. We may not be playing for the national title game, but it is a BCS game. How disheartening to the players!! I agree with the govenor when he said coaches need to be treated like players when they transfer schools - maybe they should sit out a season.
Posted by: M.C on Dec 18, 2007 at 03:35 PM
Rich, we have friends for 7 years and as You know I have beeen an ardent supporter both mentally as well as financially during that time. I must say that I have never been fooled this way before, I'm happy the horse is out of the barn and I see him in the daylight. I simply can't beleive your lack of honesty and integrity. I hope nobdy else belives you when you "give your word" on anything. Our families have broken bread together on many ocassions, and you sttop to this, for the almighty dollar and speak of your alma mater as if it is dead! Good luck my past friend. I'll call you should I have a need to be lied to!
Posted by: Real Herd Fan on Dec 18, 2007 at 03:28 PM
What a great day for Marshall! WVU's coach leaving them just before their bowl game! They will never be able to find another coach of such class, character, and integrity. No doubt, we will win against them in Morgantown next year- we'll probably beat then 163 to 0! In fact, I say we will win all our remaining games in the series with them! By then, we will have won a Division I National Championship- maybe even several, back to back! THEN WE WILL BE PROCLAIMED AS THE GREATEST UNIVERSITY OF ALL TIME, AND MILLIONS AROUND THE WORLD WILL WANT TO FILL OUR NEW 125,000 SEAT STADIUM, WHICH WILL SELL OUT EVERY YEAR! THEN WE'LL BE THE GREATEST COLLEGE IN ALL OF (collapses on the floor, eyes rolling back, frothing at the mouth.)
Posted by: mingofan on Dec 18, 2007 at 01:22 PM
don't tear down my house to build someone else a new one ,then say you care about people,go best of luck to ohio state!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 18, 2007 at 12:33 PM
All I have to say is this was a great choice one Rich's part. Seriously....it's Michigan personally I would take the job considering that 4 million buy out that they will have to pay WVU they make in concessions in one game. Sure Alabama is a Top Tier football program with a great history and he didn't leave for them, but it's not Michigan. If I were a WVU fan I wouldn't want someone with the lack of character that Rich has to lead my team. I give him 3 years at Michigan before they ship him off for a "Michigan Man". He might as well get paid while he can.
Posted by: griff on Dec 18, 2007 at 12:33 PM
take mark snyder with ya now maybe Wvu will win more with a real coach
Posted by: mu fan on Dec 18, 2007 at 12:13 PM
It seems that WVU has no leadership for a coach to act as RR has without outrage about breaking rules in talking with other schools without out letting the know. We will send you Mark Synder and the coachs he fired this what you desereve. e.
Posted by: Dan on Dec 18, 2007 at 11:50 AM
All you WVU fans that are criticizing Rich need to wake up!! If you were given the opportunity that he has been given you would take it too. Get over it! He is moving on!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 18, 2007 at 10:45 AM
Come on, 'EERs....show him that you can do it better WITHOUT him! Win that Bowl Game and rub it in his face!!! We're all counting on you!!!
Posted by: Chuck on Dec 18, 2007 at 10:19 AM
Yes, I feel that Rich betrayed not only us as fans but West Virginia as a whole..Does he really care about the players? NOT, if he did he would not be worried about making MONEY and stayed with his Alma Mater as he stated when Alabama tried to get him. So, Did he reall care about his Alma Mater? NO, Ask yourself, How could he? Now it makes one wonder if the team got wind of this decision prior to the Pitt game, not saying that is the reason they got embarrased, Maybe the so called Coach Rod really didn't care because he knew he was leaving. I also wonder if the University knew about this? They said that Michigan didn't have permission to talk to him but they did it. Are they going to do anything about that? Like make him pay the 4.5 million back. I am sure the University can use the money. Two things to say to you Rod..#1 Go BUCKS, #2 When you leave don't let the door hit you where the good Lord split you. You are a traitor.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 18, 2007 at 09:49 AM
I have about had it with all the so-called Michigan Fans saying that WVU is a 2nd tier team and that if they played a Big10 Schedule WVU would lose Big Time. Well I have seen Michigan win Big Time. Rod is an excellent coach an will probaly win at UM. So for all you so called wolverine fans out there bashing WVU just remember if it wasn't for us you wouldn't have a Basketball or Football coach.
Posted by: Susan on Dec 18, 2007 at 09:45 AM
People in WV are so mad over the Coach, but the coach isn't the one who puts the pads on & takes the hits. The coach isn't the one who is there for and education. The players are the ones on the field, they are the ones who play the game not "Richy Rich". The quarterback is the leader on & off the field, let him lead the guys in the Fiesta Bowl, who better knows the offense. We shouldn't put our "faith" in the coach, but lavish it on the players, they are the ones out there. So what if "Richy Rich" left WVU, he isn't WVU, the students are WVU. Forget how insulted you feel, forget the betrayal, and show the players, the students that one make can't make or break a school. The students are the backbone, the heart and brain of the university. That goes for both Marshall & WVU. Instead of being at each others throat, Marshall needs to be reaching out to WVU and saying, "We Are ....here for you"...
Posted by: mel on Dec 18, 2007 at 09:37 AM
look at it this way...we all now have 2 favorite teams. WVU and who ever is playing Michigan
Posted by: Jordan on Dec 18, 2007 at 08:27 AM
I feel like Rich Rodriguez lied to us the whole time. He SHOULD have just left last year and we would be better off now. How do you leave your team, you built for 7 years before the biggest game they have ever faced. That right there shows me that Rich Rodriguez is has no respect for anyone else but himself. Im glad he's gone.
Posted by: dave on Dec 18, 2007 at 08:22 AM
Most of you are missing the point why he left. He is going to Michigan because it's Michigan. Sorry to tell you, but WVU is not a top tier program. He obviously didn't think as highly of WVU as he does of Michigan or he wouldn't have called Michigan a special place. Just accept the fact that while you have a good program in place, the history and national championships are not there as they are with Michigan. Plus, you want to talk about loyalty? I'd like to know how many of you were fans of his after you lost the Pitt game and wanted him to get fired or quit. Now that he's gone don't cry about it.
Posted by: DANNY on Dec 18, 2007 at 07:23 AM
HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE ON THE OTHER END WVU FANS? THIS IS THE SAME THING WVU DID TO KANSAS ST. WITH BOB HUGGINS AND I DIDN'T HEAR YOU CRYING ABOUT THAT!!!
Posted by: annonymous on Dec 18, 2007 at 07:08 AM
GOOD BYE ... DON'T LET THE DOOR HIT YOU ON YOUR WAY OUT
Posted by: wvufan4ever on Dec 18, 2007 at 07:03 AM
it was not about more money. he decided over a year ago he was not happy here. what he should be ashamed of is trying to get slayton to go with him and taking magee and gibson as well. i dont care what his lawyers say but because of that and trying to shaft us when he goes he should be forced to pay us the $4 million dollars!
Posted by: Bubba on Dec 18, 2007 at 06:49 AM
Hit the Road Rich, and don't ya come back, no more, no more, no more, no more. Hit the Road Rich, and don't ya come back no more...........
Posted by: Josh on Dec 18, 2007 at 06:01 AM
Well as for the ppl talking about they would leave their jobs for more money,,welll that aint the case to us he lied saying he was here to stay,,he lied when he said he would retire at wvu last year,,I think the pitt game was tainted so he wouldnt have to compete for the national championship,and if he made it to thier then he would have to stay at wvu,,Everyone inside this state asks their self everygame why dont they go to schmit,,why aint devine playing week in a and week out,,
Posted by: Always a WVU Fan on Dec 18, 2007 at 04:05 AM
I will always bleed blue and gold. And I am sure, that given the opportunity for more money and the betterment of myself, I would have left too. But, come one...if he really was the man that he PROFESSES to be, he would have told Michigan to hold off til after the Fiesta Bowl. That was the RIGHT thing to do. I can't blame him for leaving, but, his timing and the way that he handled it leaves a sour taste in all TRUE Mountaineer fans. Through good games and bad, the TRUE fans will still be there. Let's GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Mountaineers!!! We will prevail again
Posted by: Jason on Dec 18, 2007 at 02:01 AM
I'm Ann Arbor raised... and I have agreed for some time that Michigan needed a new direction. So many people who wanted that new direction are going to be thrilled... but I am somehow left with a bad taste in my mouth. It sure doesn't seem right that Michigan should be stealing this coach from his Alma Mater to come to Michigan. And it doesn't seem right that someone would leave their Alma Mater for a bit more money and a higher profile position. The WV Rodriguez family home is probably quite nice... and I can't imagine that he was having trouble paying the electric bill on the salary he was making... I think Joe Paterno is still quite comfortable with his "pitiful" sub $600k salary. If Rodriguez is still the Michigan coach in 15 years, I'll take it all back, but from what I hear and read, the "loyalty" that he speaks of pales in comparison to the Loyalty that we have received from Lloyd Carr over the past 28 years. Good luck, WVU fans... and wish us luck, too.
Posted by: Kathy on Dec 18, 2007 at 12:45 AM
Michigan Athletic Director Bill Martin said Rodriguez is a person with "strong character who truly cares about his players." Wonder what he smoked for breakfast. The press conference from this morning also states that Rodriguez doesn't want to be a distraction to Michigan as it prepares for its bowl. That’s really kind of funny, did he care what he did to the guys at WVU that poured their hearts into believing in him. Way to go Rod, you really let an entire state down. Hope you have a very unmerry Christmas.
Posted by: jeremy on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:16 PM
as far as im concern good rithens i hope you enjoy losing to APP. State every year and as for you you can move and never come back to wv .... by the way i hope michigan enjoys you losing every big game just like you choked against pitt ... and for steve slaton takin up for him ... yeah he gave you a chance but all in all he turned his back on you only reason he didnt leave you last year is because he figured you could get him a national championship so when he left he could get a bigger job rich rod says he loves wv well wv does not love him and he can go get beat by 1-AA schools and ohio state for the rest of his career and when he gets fired from michigan in about 3 years i am going to be there laughing every moment and when he trys to come back to wvu i hope the AD doesnt even allow him withing a 1,000 feet withing the campus ... good luck eers take down those sooners
Posted by: Brian on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:11 PM
Coach Rod should be hauled out of West Virginia and never allowed to return,after all it was only a year ago that his contract was extended and he said he would not leave 'his' school,as WVU fans we really like his LOYALITY,I hope he falls on his worthless face at UM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: April on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:58 PM
Someone should have taught him to finish what he started. He should have at least coached the team in their bowl game, instead of bolting to Michigan. His heart was already in Ann Arbor. Its amazing how his loyalty shifted so quickly. The team and the fans deserved better! Nothing like jumping ship before a bowl game. Coaches leave, but the fans are with you all the way..GO MOUNTAINEERS!
Posted by: Greg on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:47 PM
i was born and raised in wv. im a die-hard michigan fan. this is a great thing! i can't wait till next year! coaching is a job and in a career you don't stop till you get to the top. WVU is a second tear school. He is moving up by going to UM. that job like ohio state texas and usc are some schools that you either finish there or go pro. its a job and he is a good coach. god bless you rod it will be great to know that a WV boy is at the helm of the maze and blue!
Posted by: Kris on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:42 PM
How does a coach tell everyone a year ago that WVU is his home and where he will retire and then a year later.....SOLD OUT! I hate PITT now worse than ever. I know RICH got us on the national scene (and I am thankful) but this shady deal leaves me with the same feeling I have about the PITT game. I feel like I have been punked! I never thought I would ever say this but I might purchase a ND shirt to wear once a year. HAIL WEST VIRGINIA U!!!!!!! and GOOD RIDENS SELL OUT. In closing I phrase the words of my good friend Ben "As always Go Mountianeers!!!"
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:29 PM
I can't blame the man for leaving. Why would you want to stay somewhere were the fans are so inconsiderate. He didn't lose the Pitt game the fans and players did. Good Luck Rich Rod Best of Luck to you and Your Family. GO WOLVERINES
Posted by: bill on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:28 PM
You would leave WVU also to coach UM. Name one good team WVU plays every year? Name a good team in the Big East? The Big East in football, is just plain bad. The Big Ten has better teams, and schools that can pay the BIG MONEY!! Neat year he will play teams like Ohio State, Penn St, Notre Dame and so on.... Who does WVU play????? Nobody!!
Posted by: Boomer on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:17 PM
It doesn't matter who the WVU coach is, they don't stand a chance against Oklahoma. Go Sooners!!!
Posted by: Rose on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:50 PM
Who really cares?
Posted by: Fred on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:22 PM
Why doesn't WVU Offer the head coach position to Coach McGee and then Coach Gibson would not feel he has to go with rod to MI to avoid possibly being let go by the new WVU coach. rod was not the Back Labor behind the team...it was the other coaches. We have to keep our strenthing coach. He has also done great things for the team. May the powers that be see this and do everything possible to keep him.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:58 PM
Who cares. Go Navy!
Posted by: Becky on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:53 PM
I decided to look up the definition of a Wolverine and had a really good laugh when it said the Wolverine is from the Weasel family...I think Coach Rod just might fit in perfectly there!! WVU fan4life
Posted by: Fred on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:35 PM
If the AD doesn't clear the coach out of the team area asap, maybe Ed should go along with him.
Posted by: Smitty on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:51 PM
Life will go on and WVU will prevail...we have a great team coming back.Some of the same guys who won the Sugar Bowl and the Gator Bowl last year. As for OSU being a winner, how about those Gators. And as for Marshall beating us next year. One word, SNYDER!
Posted by: Robert on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:46 PM
I just looked at the wsaz.com poll,60% for Terry Bowden. Terry Bowden, I guess, is the choice of heart. While, Coach Rich Rod had a very sucessful tenure here and I am very thankful about that, he left his state for the "better job". Whether you like the way he left or not, I believe he took the program as far as he could. It is time now, not to vote (or hire) a new coach on heart. It is time to pick the best candidate to take us to the next level, a NATION CHAMPIONSHIP! That is the reason I believe the next coach should be Doc Holiday. He has the resume at Florida to do just that and also he is from WV. P.S. While we're at it, lets get rid of that awful 3-3-5 defense.
Posted by: Trina on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:26 PM
Im so glad that Rod put the welfare of the kids ahead of his own needs for this special bowl game.....yeah right! glad he showed his true colors
Posted by: Tim on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:16 PM
I ripped up an autograph picture of coach Rodirguez. Threw it away in the trash I seen on tv a mountaineer fan burn an autograph football.
Posted by: jamie on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:07 PM
a modern day judas has betrayed our state for a few pieces of silver. after the university gave a 70% increase in sallary and made the demanded upgrades he still left the Mountaineers .this person (not a man) is not worthy of the title west virginian. he turned his back on us and the values that seperate us from the rest of this money hungry , greedy country.
Posted by: HD on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:03 PM
Lloyd is right on the mark, can't blame RR. I might just move to Michigan myself.
Posted by: HOPEFUL on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:02 PM
It's time we stop worshiping the man and realize he is just that, a man. No one is worth that much money. When the leaders look at money only the end result will be the same disappointment. Now is the time to look ahead and start supporting those young men who make up the TEAM. Not one man, but the TEAM. These kids deserve better and we can help make this easier by showing our support. Now lets forget that man and move on. He's not worth it.
Posted by: Frank on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:54 PM
Well, I might as well throw my 4 cents in on this one! If I was the coach of WVU and this opportunity came available to me, I would definitely leave WVU and head to Michigan cause more money is there and resources. I think Rod done a good thing. Now onto the search for our new coach??? Terry Bowden? We dont want him, He isnt proven much over the years, or he wouldnt be a tv analyst now!
Posted by: Clarence on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:53 PM
Rich hasn't been able to pull out the big wins anyway, he has been out coached more than once look at the Pitt game, then accept a job before a big bowl game. I hate that him leaving will hurt recruitment for WVU, but we are a lot better without him. WVU doesn't need a coach that is looking for the next best thing.
Posted by: Matt on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:44 PM
So if you have a job working for your longtime friend making $10./hr., and another job offered you $20/hr. doing the same thing, you would turn it down??? Either your lying or stupid if you said you would turn it down.
Posted by: Toby on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:40 PM
First, let me state that I am a fan of both schools, but my heart is wrapped in Maize and Blue. When I first started hearing the news on Friday that he was talking to Michigan, I was shocked. I truly didn't believe he would do it again...not two years in a row, but he did. As for Michigan, I'm not sure we're ready for the changes Rich Rod will bring to Ann Arbor, but he must realize the pressure that will be put on him to win. Michigan's history proves they expect to win and he stated in his press conference this morning. He is taking over a program with the best winning percentage in college football history and has a lot to prove in his first year...to include a challenging run through the Big Ten with the biggest rivaly in all of sports on the line at the end of the season.
Posted by: paula on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:37 PM
With every thing that is going on in the world today who cares if coach for some football team changes jobs. I think that there are much more important things to worry and report about the economy and the war in iraq just to name two. Every one that is no "upset" about this needs to realize that this is just a game. So grow up and get a life.
Posted by: david on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:33 PM
i think he is a trader and has hert the state and the kids that looked up to him and the onley thing i can say is go o.s.u
Posted by: Mike on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:30 PM
99% of the people on here would leave their current job for more money elsewhere if given the opportunity, and the other 1% are would be lying if they said they wouldn't. As for leaving now, what was he supposed to do??? Wait till after the Bowl game and announce it???? If he does that he loses out on potential recruits for Michigan and WVU loses out on some potential coaching candidates.
Posted by: the world is not over on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:24 PM
remember he is leaving, the world didn't stop spinning. WVU, with team and fans is still vibrant, a coach is only as good as his best players!
Posted by: KEN on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:20 PM
WHY DOES MARSHALL KEEP COMING UP IN THIS? THIS IS ALL ABOUT WVU NOT MARSHALL, AS ALWAYS THE WVU FANS DOES NOT PASS UP A CHANCE TO PUT DOWN THE MARSHALL FANS. I LIKE WVU AND MARSHALL AND OTHER THEN PICKING YOUR FAVORITE TEAM FOR THAT GAME YOU SHOULD HOPE THAT THEY WIN ALL THERE GAMES. YOU CAN'T BLAME A COACH FOR LEAVING FOR MORE MONEY AS MOST PEOPLE (AT LEAST 95%)WOULD DO. YOU WORK TO MAKE A LIVING NOT JUST TO KILL TIME, SO WHY NOT MAKE THE MOST YOU CAN, BESIDES HOW EMBARRESSING IS IT THAT YOUR(QUOTE/UNQUOTE)FANS WANT TO BURN THW TOWN DOWN AFTER EVERY (BIG) GAME?
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:58 PM
you know rod says that he is going to leave all the time maybe we will win if another coach is here
Posted by: Mark on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:51 PM
Hey, I hear Wv needs a head coach and we got one here at Marshall so I think tradeing them Mark Snyder for a couple of good janitors. If that doesn't work out then a decent lawns keeper for our football field would be my second choice think it over...... Mark Snyder is just what Wv needs!!!
Posted by: Eveett on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:48 PM
Julie, if Terry Bowden loves West Virginia, then why has he chosen to live in Orlando,Florida?
Posted by: Melinda on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:37 PM
I was angry at first. Now I am just sad. We don't know the whole story and will never know. I can't hate him. I have watched him and loved watching him coach since he came to WVU. I think he knew something at the Pitt game cuz he didnt coach like he always does. Something wasn't right. I am also going to say this to Dale....no I wouldn't have left because I don't think money is everything. I have morals and values and I will not compromise them for any reason. However, I can only speak for me. I am ashamed that so called WVU fans ridiculed Rich and his family. He has little kids! Imagine how that must be scaring them!!! Don't stoop to that level. I am angry too, but I wouldn't want anything to happen to him or his family. I hope he is happy with his decision. Maybe he isn't a true mountaineer. Governor Manchin is right, the money has become too important. I am so disheartened with college ball. I dont know if I can stand to watch anymore.
Posted by: Kt on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:35 PM
Also, was it really necessary for Gov. Manchin to distribute a press release? Seriously, this is college football. Last time I checked he has no say so in collegiate coaching, and I personally don't care about his opinion on the subject. Surely there are more important issues that he should be worrying about rather than Rodriguez.
Posted by: Christopher on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:13 PM
I was not surprised about the decision he made about going to Michigan. Now these days, it's not about committment, it's about the money. I have been a mountaineer fan for years, and I really hate to see The Rodriguez family leave, but you got to do what you got to do. Just because of the upsetting about coach leaving, I'm still a Mountaineer, and I am proud of it! I wish the Rodriguez family well, and good luck in Michigan! GO MOUNTAINEERS!!! I have two words for Coach Rodriguez "Gold Digger"!
Posted by: WOODY on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:08 PM
OHIO STATE HAS PICKED UP MANY NEW FANS...
Posted by: Patty on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:00 PM
Last year I bought a "got rich" 't-shirt. Since I needed a new doormat, it is now placed outside my front door and everyone must pay special attention to wipe thier feet befor entering! That's how I feel about it!
Posted by: karen on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:52 PM
As a WVU fan I am total disappointed in Coach Rodriguez he calls WVU home. I have been gone from the state over 20 years now in the state of NC but, if you drive up to my driveway you will see the BIG WV flag flying high and proud on the days we do well on the days we do not do well. I drive a car that has WVU #1 from when we went to the national championship...we did not win but, I am still proud. I wonder how he will sleep knowing you did not only let down young men at a University but a whole state and people outside that state that are still WVU fans because when you are born a WVU Mountaineer more than most of us died a Mountaineer...to the young men at that UNIVERSITY please know that you are the heart and soul of WEST VIRGINIA right now please give us hope that you are more honorable than your coach and that true blue and gold runs deep in your souls. We need to know there is just and upright men still holding the torch to make WVU university a beacon on a hill....Thanks
Posted by: WVU Fan on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:45 PM
Okay, people enough garbage talk. How about this scenario. WVU going for a national championship wasn't going to bring in the money for the big boys in Vegas (or wherever) so some higher ups send a message - Rodriguiz, lose the game to Pitt. Did you notice how many times Pat White kept trying to get back into the game in the 2nd half? There was also pressure not to play Steve Slaton as well. (Of course, that was probably his agent telling him you had better not play, you might get hurt!) Slaton already declared his eligibility in the NFL draft for next year. In most games, WVU would start off slow but always rallied at the end. Maybe, Rodriguiz lost all respect for the administration and the program (not the players) after being put in that situation. Then, again...maybe not! The opportunity to go to another level opened and he took it. Good luck at Michigan...
Posted by: anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:41 PM
Bring Don Nehlen back to coach the Fiesta Bowl. and hmmmm I wondered the same thing if he lost that pitt game on purpose also.
Posted by: Hurshel on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:20 PM
I at one time thought that Rich R's word was his character and bond to the state and WVU, boy was I wrong, anyway I guess in the final analysis it's not about coaching, it's about money. Being an alumni of WVU I will support them no matter what something their coach would not do.
Posted by: Julie on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:10 PM
TERRY BOWDEN is our man! He loves West Virginia and the Mountaineers. He is a seasoned head coach, national TV and radio analyst and WVU graduate. Terry was the first head coach in Division 1A to lead his squad to an undefeated season in his first year at Auburn -- using the same team that had a losing season just the year before! He can do that for us, too. In 1993, he was named National Coach of the Year and took the Tigers to three post-season bowl games. As a football analyst, Terry probably watches more play films on college football in one day than most coaches do in a week. Terry knows what it takes -- he's played the game, studied the game, and coached the game -- HE IS OUR MAN! As a WVU graduate, (magna cum laude, no less) and player, Terry loves the Mountain State and could lead our Mountaineers into the best team the Big East has ever seen. Terry will be able to create his own dynasty here in almost heaven West Virginia. Get that boy here!!! Yell it from the hilltops -- Terry has a dream and we need to help him fulfill it. Then we can ALL get what we want. Isn't it about time West Virginia gets the best and brightest star? WE WANT TERRY!
Posted by: R.Stanley on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:07 PM
This is a complete outrage!! I cannot believe Rich left @ this stage. I blame Julio Vasquez or he at least had some part in this decision.
Posted by: Jerry on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:01 PM
Bob Huggins will help us forget Beilien, As our next football coach will help us forget Rodriguez. Rodriguez's comment that WVu doesn't expect a great football prgram copared to Michigan. Remember, Michigan..he told WVU the same thing about coaching at WVU until he retires. Must not have been that tough a decision to 'leave' as you left the team and fans hanging right in the middle of a bowl game.For a coach to call WVU recruits and ask them to come to Michigan is as low class as you can get.Not onlt does he lie to WVU and the players after being recruited by Alabama, his intent is to destroy the football program. No one, would leave a football program as successful as WVU in the middle of preparing for a bowl game unless you have no Integrity. Apparently, Rodriguez has none and cared more about the MONEY then what WVU has done for him. Don Nehlen couldn't get a job in the Big, so I guess Rodriguez will fulfill his dream. Wonder what Nehlen was offered for Rodriguez to leave?
Posted by: Jasmine on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:59 PM
Well Rich doesn't deserve to be the coach of WVA so they are better off without him. When someone takes a contract and breaches it then they don't need to have any respect he's a jerk and will remain a jerk he's going to do the same to Michigan when something better comes along for him. He does not deserve to be a coach anywhere. And to the 2 poster's who called wva hillbillies and hill jacks there is no reason for that comment when posting on a public site try and be respectful.
Posted by: chuck on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:52 PM
You know what I call Rich Rod leaving WVU? A good start. Now if we could just get the rest of those classless hacks out of our state along with the University of Southern Pennslyvania whose population is already 51% PA, NJ, etc... out of our state this might become a pretty good place to live without having to look at that nasty blue and yeller crap everywhere. Face it USPAM your 15 minutes are over.
Posted by: William Giacomo on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:48 PM
In West Virginia, his name will forever be Benedict Arnold. May he get his brains beat out at Michigan. I never thought I would be for Ohio State. May all teams beat Michigan.
Posted by: Mike on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:38 PM
"Difficult Decision"? Don't make me laugh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Lloyd on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:37 PM
Lets see here. Student Body Prez busted for DUI. Fans throw items on the field during a national tv game. Band members get barred from Fiesta Bowl. Number 1 party school ranking. Fans heckle coach at half time of the WVU-Marshall game. Fans threatend to kill the kicker after Pitt game. Morgantown looks like a third world country after a home game. Fans heckle coach as he gets on a plane to Michigan. In the words of Tom Burgundy "Stay Classy Morgantown!"
Posted by: ME on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:35 PM
IT WAS THE HARDEST DECISION I HAVE EVER MADE. PLEASE....HOW HARD IS IT TO SELL OUT YOUR COLLEGE? FRIENDS? FELLOW COACHES? HOW HARD WAS IT TO SIGN THAT CONTRACT? HOW HARD WILL IT BE TO CASH THAT FINAL CHECK FROM WVU? GIVE ME A FREAKIN BREAK. OK---STOP REPORTING ABOUT MICHIGANS NEW COACH. RICH IS THE PAST....MOVE ON!
Posted by: biggen on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:26 PM
i think the pitt game was through. but i think pat white probably through it
Posted by: Biggen on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:07 PM
EVERYBODY NEED TO QUIT HATIN ON RODRIGUEZ. HE DID WHAT HE HAD TO DO. WHICH WAS LEAVE HILLBILLYS AND YOUR MOONSHINE IN MORGANTOWN AND MOVE ON TO BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS. He was proabably embarrased b.c. of what happened up in Logan COunty a couple of months ago
Posted by: Moosette on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:58 PM
This is in response to Moose: You are so right! I can't agree with you more! If I would have been offered a significant amount of more money, I would have went to!
Posted by: Kt on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:56 PM
I am very happy for Coach Rodriguez. The Big East is nothing compared to the other football conferences, so it is understandable that he would want to move to Michigan, a school with more history, tradition and competitiveness than WVU. I wish him and WVU good luck in all of their future endeavors.
Posted by: Shawn on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:55 PM
GOOD BYE Richy "BOY" ... Just a thought from a guy who played a little ball... DIVE RIGHT, DIVE LEFT, DIVE UP THE MIDDLE.... only works in biddy league football.... and your other two favorite plays: The pass to the RIGHT FLAT, pass to the LEFT FLAT typically don't work well after Junior High level football... GOOD LUCK IN THE BIG 10 !!!! Go BUCKEYES !!!! WVU NATION Lets bring Bowden to Mo-town !!!!
Posted by: rod sucks on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:54 PM
We didn't need to keep him before and we don't need him now!!! He only kept this job till something better came along then screwed the team on the most important game, could not wait to get on that plane.
Posted by: dave on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:49 PM
Marshall an embarassment? looks to me like WVU is making this state a laughing stock... losing to a crappy Pitt team, blowing a chance for a championship, then the coach blowing town after everybody in the state trashes him..... Marshall just fired a couple of coaches... why don't you hire one of them? They may suck, but they have heart...
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:46 PM
He would be a real man if he coached in the SEC....by far the toughest conference....ask the Buckeyes...lol
Posted by: hmmmm on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:45 PM
I am thinking he lost that Pitt game on purpose because he knew he had the other other job.
Posted by: KELLI on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:36 PM
I AM A DIE HARD OHIO STATE FAN, BUT I BLEED GREEN JUST CAUSE I LIVE IN HUNTINGTON. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW A GOOD COACH LIKE ROD CAN JUST UP AN LEAVE A GREAT TEAM LIKE WVU. I WAS JUST CURIOUS HAS TO HOW MANY OF THE FOOTBALL PLAYERS WILL ACTUALLY TRY FOR THE NFL NOW? LIKE SLATE AND WHITE!! 2 OUTSTANDING PLAYERS. I AM SURE THAT THE WHOLE TEAM IS OUTRAGED ABOUT THIS. BUT AS FAR AS PEOPLE SAYING THAT MARSHALL FANS NEED TO KEEP OUR MOUTH SHUT!!! ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT MARSHALL DIDN'T DO AS GOOD THIS YEAR AS WVU BUT OH WELL THEY WILL DO BETTER NOW THAT COACH K IS GONE. I HOPE THAT COACH ROD CHOKES IN MICHIGAN, AND HE WILL!!! WVU WILL BOUNCE BACK FROM THIS AND U ALL KNOW THEY WILL. OH YEAH I ALMOST FORGOT..... DON'T HATE ON MARSHALL CAUSE WE WAS MORE POLITE TO YA'LL THEN U GUYS WAS TO US!!! MAYBE YOU GUYS SHOULD THINK ABOUT CHEERING FOR MARSHALL NEXT YEAR!!! WE ARE.....MARSHALL!!!
Posted by: Deb on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:18 PM
Oh well, enough of Richy Rich, what's Bob Pruett's number?
Posted by: Chad on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:11 PM
I'm not a WVU fan (Go Cats!!!), but I feel for the way Rodriguez left you. Pitino did us the same way, but at least he coached his last game. It is a shame that Rodriguez won't at least live up to his responsibily and commitment to his current players.
Posted by: scott on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:11 PM
Well maybe you wvu fans can get him back after Tressel and the OSU program shows Rich how the big ten plays football. Go cry on someone else's shoulders, you hill jacks should have seen this coming.
Posted by: melisa on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:02 PM
"Obviously I'm very excited to stay here and I plan on being here a long time," Rodriguez said later at a news conference. "We've done some pretty good things over the last five years or so. We're not done yet. We're going to continue to grow." That is what he said last year when alabama offered him a coaching job there.. well I didn't know that a year was a long time but okay.. anyways were better off.. we still have our great football players!! and we still will continue to grow without him.. the way I look at it is its his lose not to be a part of this football team anymore.. Let's Go Mountaineers !!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Dale on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:59 PM
There is not a person here or anywhere that would not leave for more money no matter what the reason is. Its not about Hillbillies, Michigan, or Ohio State, its about Coach Rod doing what he wants with his life. Give him a break! You would do the same. This is a great state and we should be proud to live here. We should also be thankful to coaches like Pruett and Rod who have put our universities in the national spotlight. Let others say what they want. WHO CARES! Money and opportunity talks everything else is just there for a while. I say good luck to anyone who thinks and can better themselves. Lets support our area teams and enjoy the sport the way we used to and get away from this stupidity that we have today. Coach - Good luck to you I hope its everything you hope for. And WVU good luck and I hope you find a great coach. Lets give good coaches a reason to stay here.
Posted by: Tim on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:52 PM
What does it say about someone's character when his word is no longer his bond? What does it also say about someone's character when he is not man enough to tell the AD he is leaving, but has a student to hand deliver a letter he wrote to the AD? As much as I hate to admit this will continue to happen to our great state and colleges. For whatever the reason may be, we cannot keep a good coach long. Once he is able to reach a level of success, he is lured away to a much more prestigious program. What does it say about our state universities? More important what does it say about the other universities that continue to do this? I would like to see this come to an end in my lifetime. I would love to see the right man come in and show everyone outside of our wonderful state what a marvelous institution West Virginia University is, and why the negative crticism should end. One final thought, what would the outcome have been if WVU had beat Pitt? Something everyone of us should think about.
Posted by: JJ on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:44 PM
Never a Coach Rod fan anyway. Bring on Terry Bowden.
Posted by: wife of a football wife on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:32 PM
As a wife of a true football fan, I watch all of the football games and ESPN 24/7. There comes a time in everyones life that we have to move in different directions then we thought would ever occur. This was maybe that time for Rich. People do things and make tough decisions that not everyone is going to approve of. However, we make these decision for the reason of what is in the best interest for our families and ourselves. For whatever reason he has for his decision, if you are a true WVU fan you should respect that decision and continue to support your team and appreciate the 7 long, hard, dedicated years that he gave to WVU and keep it at that. A true fan would be able to do this.
Posted by: Dick on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:19 PM
So now he is going to retire in Michigan. Didn't he say the same thing about WVU last year? No class what so ever. Don't mind him moving up but the way he did it was awful. I have no respedt for the man at all anymore.
Posted by: Rich on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:12 PM
I hope that WVU gets someone with some sense of loyalty next time. Michigan, good luck till someone has a nickle more than you.
Posted by: Ladeebanker on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:00 PM
This stuff sounds like when Bowden left for Florida. Rich is a good coach and we should be proud of the fact that he is from West Virgina and wants a better job just like you and me. We all want more. It to bad that he left before we play OK, but come where is the WV spirit that lives in us all, Look back to where we have come from and to where we are. Every year the team is different, so next year we will have a new coach. We are the Mountaineers! have some pride and stop whinning and crying like we are Marshall
Posted by: sherry on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:59 PM
Rodiguez said he was studing the Michigan traditions, I guess he hasn't read the part of losing 3 times to Ohio State he will be out of a job and begging WV to take him back.To WV players forget him and get that WIN and RUB it IN his face!!!
Posted by: ME on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:56 PM
It's not about them money, it's about the competition. There is little competition in the Big Ten with a bunch of big, slow teams. Speed kills the Big Ten teams. He couldn't win it all in the Big East despite having the best talent in the country. He didn't want the competition in the SEC that's why he didn't go to Alabama. He has seen what speed does to the Big Ten when Florida crushed Ohio State & Appy State beating Michigan. Illinois is winning in the Big Ten w/ a little bit of speed and not nearly the talent WVU has. Not to mention the fact you get the benefit of the polls because your name is Michigan. Please come back Slaton so coach knows what he is missing. Good luck 'EERS!
Posted by: sad on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:54 PM
reading these negative statements makes me sad. it's football, people. it was his decision. let him live with that and let it be. there will always be other coaches. remember the importance of the holiday season and don't dwell on this.
Posted by: WVU Go EERS on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:53 PM
Hey I got an idea . Next year if Michigan plays Ohio State in Ohio I say all us WV Fans get tickets to go and wear our Blue and Gold and paint our faces red/ grey make a statement. He will be so tore up he wont be able to execute his plays correctly. We are comming for ya . I have always hated Ohio State but thanks to old rod. I love them. And to the people who keep saying Go Herd. Yes please do GO out of state :)The Herd is an embarassment to West Virginia.
Posted by: Ge on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:41 PM
The first loss and he's gone! Bring in Steve Dunlap, which theyshould have done before Rod
Posted by: upset on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:34 PM
michigan sucks. rod is a fool for leaving wvu. go have fun rod, we dont need you ! :)
Posted by: dave on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:24 PM
lets get malik shabazz and meg williams, then we can have a march in mo-town....
Posted by: Ed on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:12 PM
Until the pitt. game,coach Rod was the greatest thing since sliced bread,but as soon as he lost,half of west virginians wanted to hang him.He has the right to change jobs the same as anyone else.Best Of Luck to him.
Posted by: Biggen on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:10 PM
bean.... u say the BIG 10 is AWFUL. Ohio State is in the BIG TEN, correct? And Ohio State Is playing for the NATIONAL CHAPMIONSHIP, CORRECT? So explain to me how the BIG TEN IS AWFUL. BEAN .. I think your just another hillbilly who has been sipping on to much of grand daddy's ole cough syrup!!!! GO RICH and GO BUCKS BOO to the HILLBILLYS
Posted by: nikki on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:03 PM
It seems like coach Rich, doesn't care about the fans or how he could be proud of the state which he from. I feel like he was very rude on he did. He d must making fans very upset since he up and left WVU, I hope that someone makes him upset and angry.
Posted by: Joe on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:58 AM
He is just a coach... there will be another... and WVU seems to choke under pressure no matter who the coach is anyway! So just get another coach, lets go lose another bowl game, and move on to next year. Just thinkin' outside the box here, but maybe we should thank coach Rod for all he brought to WVU in the past seven years, bunch of ungrateful whining little babies! If you all were smart you would just switch to being OSU fans... come on over to the winning side... try it on for a while... it feels pretty good. Later...
Posted by: Donna on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:55 AM
What comes around gos around If you dont LOVE WV get out NOW!!!!! True Mountaineersd dont want anybody here that dont LOVE WV
Posted by: April on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:53 AM
We don't know exactly why Rich left, was it money or did WVU not follow through with their end of the contract...whatever the reason, it was unprofessional and inconsiderate of Coach Rod to make what appeared to be a hasty decision before a Bowl game. His comment about "simply switching jobs" was a cop out. His departure left hearts of fans broken, and a distraction to the players. However, the bottom line is this, life will go on...the Mounties will win the Fiesta Bowl and rise to another chance at the National Championship next year - without the help of a man that does not honor his word. I hope that he sleeps well tonight. He will need all the sleep he can get because the people from Detroit will walk all over him. Furthermore, money may talk...but it can't buy Coach Rod a WELCOME Home ticket back to West Virginia.
Posted by: Wolverine on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:46 AM
Pretty sure he will not have to get beat by Ohio State in order to look like a fool as suggested by a previous poster. In fact, I am pretty sure he achieved looking like a fool the past seven years coaching at a ho hum university. WVU only wish that schools like Ohio State and Michigan would even consider them a school able to compete with them, when in fact no one above the WV, PA line cares about WVU.
Posted by: John on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:40 AM
Forget gold and blue, and blue and maize, the only color Rich Rod loves is GREEN! He betrayed his school, the state and most of all his players. Good riddance!
Posted by: Lynne on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:39 AM
I have season tickets and will continue to do so. I feel he betrayed all of WV. WVU has been in the top 5 for the past 5 years, Michigan has not. Here he was a god, up there he will just another hillbilly. I never thought I would see this day.
Posted by: Woody on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:37 AM
Coach Rich leaving is a direct result of what our society and college atheletics have become, driven by financial motivations and egos. Quit your whining people, adapt and overcome. When large amounts of money are involved, loyalty is not a consideration. There are many good football coaches out there, when one door closes, another one always seems to open. Maybe the next coach might be able to motivate the football team to win a national championship. No past coaches have ever been able to do it. Dry those tears, think the glass is half full, not half empty!
Posted by: jtb on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:34 AM
good to se ya go if your that money hungry n that disloyal glad to hear about you leaving the young men ya recruited while still on wvu payroll better think twice about beliving a word you tell them i hope pryor dont fall for your line of BS your here today n gone tommorrow if you can be baught west virginia dont need a guy like that neither does mich good luck ya money hungry leach jb
Posted by: JB on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:34 AM
I say Good Luck but not for coaching Michigan, but for getting out of Morgantown without being mobbed by upset WV fans.
Posted by: Jennifer on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:32 AM
It will take some getting use to when Rich Rod faces an actual schedule instead of some junior high schedule he was facing with the mountaineers. Unlike the mountaineers though, the wolverines will be able to win the big ones. You could have freaking Jim Tressel come in and lead the mountaineers (although I could not imagine anyone would want to take such a step down) and it would not matter, fact of the matter is WVU plays a subpar schedule and when it comes to actual competition they can not compete. Welcome to Wolverine Country Rich.
Posted by: WVU Nut on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:31 AM
I hope Rodriguez does a better job for Michigan than Beilan has(who is now 4-7 as Michigan's basketball coach). Hey Rich, you'd better get ready for Appalachian State next year. If Michigan loses that one (again) you'll be out of a job.
Posted by: Mandy on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:30 AM
Anonymous are you an idiot? Coach Road lost the game with his coaching. Those boys did not deserve hwat he did to them. You must be a Marshall fan so keep your nose out of it. This state is hurting enough without you stupid comments. Coach Rod is a liar and Michigan cannot stand to lose, so come here and steal our coach. SEE YA ROD...NEVER RETURN!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:27 AM
Marshall fans are gonna be crying again.They thought they had the worst coach in the country.Now WVU has beaten them in that,as well!!But they could still beat the Blundering Herd without any coaches!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:01 AM
I CANNOT BELIEVE OUR GOVENOR OF WV. HE SAYS THAT RICH IS A VICTIM, NO GOVENOR, WVU MOUNTAINEER PLAYERS AND FANS ARE THE VICTIM. GET YOUR WORDS TURNED AROUND!!!!!
Posted by: Chris on Dec 17, 2007 at 11:00 AM
Its all about the money with Coach Rod, Nothing else matters to him, I feel he let our state down, as well as the WVU players and fans, I say let him go, and don't let the door hit him in the rear, Let's Go Mountaineers !!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:59 AM
I AM WRITING IN REGARDS TO THE COMMENT I SAW ABOUT THEY DON'T BLAME RICH FOR LEAVING AFTER HOW THE TEAM PLAYED AGAINST PITT. HEY YOU GOT TO REMEMBER "WHO IS COACHING THE TEAM," THEY ONLY DID WHAT COACH ROD WANTED THEM TO DO. IF YOU WANT MY OPINION, I DO NOT THINK RICH'S HEART WAS INTO THAT BALLGAME AT ALL. HE DIDN'T CARE HOW THEY PLAYED. IF YOU ASK ME, I WISH ALL THE FANS COULD DUMP A LARGE BUCKET OF WATER EACH ON HIS HEAD. EVERYONE SAYS WHY BE UPSET, HOW COULD YOU NOT. WVU TRIED EVERYTHING IN THE WORLD TO KEEP HIM. REMEMBER THE UPDATED FACILITIES, WELL LET ROD PAY FOR THEM OUT OF HIS OWN POCKET. WVU SHOULD NOT EVEN WORK WITH HIS LAWYERS ABOUT THE 4 MILLION BUYOUT, MAKE HIM PAY IT!!!!!!! THAT IS WHAT'S WRONG NOW, LETTING THEM BRAKE THE CONTRACT AND GET OFF LIGHT, DON'T DO IT, MAKE HIM PAY IT.
Posted by: Christina on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:56 AM
Living in Michigan will be punishment enough for Rodriguez. U-M, you coming after our lacrosse coach next?
Posted by: Greg on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:49 AM
The state of West Virginia has a long tradition of courage, loyality, honesty and integrity. Qualities you expect from leaders in our state. Those who represent our state are ambassadors to the rest of the country on the states behalf and they must carry these qualitites also. Clearly these are qualities that Mr. Rodriguez lacks. A man is as only as good as his word. Something he will live the rest of his life with. He maybe a mountaineer by birth but not at heart. By the way (if he loses the big game three years in a row in Michigan like the big games in the conference the last two years (Lousiville, South Flordia, Pittsburg)he will be lucky to be an offensive towel boy for TCU) He has succeded in making the entire state of WV an Ohio State fan for at least one game a year.
Posted by: Donnie on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:49 AM
If Rich doesn't want to be at WVU, then we don't want him. We'd much rather have Terry Bowden anyway! Go Ohio State!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:41 AM
I feel he needs to do what he thinks is best for himself and family,but he should have confronted his team before anyone knew. I am sure they would have understood that he is only trying to better himself. I feel its easy for everyone to set and judge him, but if the shoes were on there feet, what would they do?
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:35 AM
why would you expect loyalty from coaches? Fans aren't always loyal, they even threaten the lives of college players if they screw up. In this day of money being everything, loyalty is almost an erstwhile concept. Businesses get rid of long term loyal employees to make an extra buck, the examples are endless. Why would anyone think coaches would be different? When Petrino left Louisville, I said Rod will be gone when the right offer comes, and there it is!
Posted by: Stephanie on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:35 AM
Good Luck Coach...hate to see you go...GO MOUNTAINEERS!!!!!
Posted by: Richard on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:33 AM
I think that coach Rod is a trader he got everything he wanted from WVU and now he is leaving. I think he should never be allowed to even enter this state again, as a matter of fact his whole family should be kicked out of the state he is a disgrace to the great fans of WVU. i watched his news conference this morning and it made me sick to see him grinning about leaving WVU and he started off by saying that is son has already committed to play football at Michigan, that sounds like a broken record didnt he say the same thing about his son wanting to play for WVU in the year 2017. I hope he doesnt win a single gane at Michigan his first year and they fire him so he will then learn how he has let the state of WV down...Good bye "Rod" and you dont deserve a job in WV.
Posted by: Rach on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Don’t expect WVU to play a good game this coming Fiesta Bowl. Their selfish coach can’t even stay for HIS team's game. WVU is still his team until he leaves. Good for him for getting a job in UN but don’t abandon the mountaineers before their game.
Posted by: buckeyenut on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:29 AM
MICHIGAN WHO?? RICH WHO?? IM A HUGE BUCKEYE FAN AND WE JUST GAINED A LARGE GROUP OF FANS W/ HIS LITTLE CHOICE.HAVE NO FEAR WVU FANS!!! COACH TRESSEL AND THE BUCKEYE BOYS WON'T LET YOU DOWN THE WAY "RICH WHO" DID !! MAYBE FORMER COACH "CARR" WILL HAVE A TIP OR TWO ON HOW TO GET OUT OF THAT STATE "UP NORTH" FAST !! GO BUCKS!!!
Posted by: Moose on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:28 AM
I have never seen such insecure, thin-skinned people as there are in this state. If the coach leaves for more money, then he wasn't a "true Mountaineer," whatever that is. This is the way coaching is today. WVU is no different from any other university. Maybe next time you'll be lucky enough to get a mediocre coach who will attract no attention so you can keep him for 30 years. I like my job, but if I was offered a significant pay increase by a more prestigious institution, I'd take it... and so would 99 percent of you "true Mountaineers."
Posted by: Bob on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:26 AM
Well, Rich Rod has valiantly displayed his "true" color...yellow. If you watched the press conference, it was like he was ashamed to say the words, "West Virginia". I never knew that cheering for the Buckeyes would now be so much more meaningful. Oh, by the way, my heart beats with the real colors of WV...green and white. While Coach Snyder may not have done the greatest job this year, at least he has the greatest quality that a three win coach has over a ten win coach...integrity. GO HERD!!!
Posted by: H on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:25 AM
Being born and raised in Michigan, I have always been a hard core Michigan fan. This next season it will be REALLY hard not to cheer for Ohio State.
Posted by: catfish caldwell on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:25 AM
I'VE PLAYED AND COACHED THE GAME. WHAT I SEE TODAY, IS WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR ME. IT IS NO LONGER ABOUT THE GAME IT'S MONEY HONEY.WHAT A SHAME. GO EERS BEAT OKIE !!!!
Posted by: John on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:14 AM
For it to be the MOST Difficult Decision in his career it sure did not take long to make it (not even a full weekend)! What a SELLOUT, go on Rich we don't need you here anyway, WVU will be fine without you!!
Posted by: KEN on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:05 AM
HOW CAN YOU BLAME A MAN FOR LEAVING FOR SUCH A NICE PAY RAISE? 99.9% OF THE SO CALLED WVU FANS WOULD LAEVE THE JOB THEY HAVE TODAY FOR SUCH A PAY RAISE. BESIDES THE PAY HE IS NOW AT A REAL FOOTBALL SCHOOL. A TEIR ONE FOOTBALL SCHOOL, LET THE MIGHTY MOUNTIES (HA-HA) PLAY THE SAME SCHEDULE AS MICHIGAN AND SEE WHAT THEIR RECORD IS AT THE END OF THE SEASON
Posted by: george on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:04 AM
let him go and dont let him in the big game, glad he is taking offence co with him,hope he goes o - 73
Posted by: Daryl on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:04 AM
I am a true blue and gold Mountaineer fan but if he wants to go to another school to coach and maybe a chance to coach in the NFL one of these days, then I have no bad feelings. During my working years (retired now) I always tried to better myself with advances or changing jobs for better pay and this is The American Dream!
Posted by: Bruce on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:02 AM
Anybody looked at U of M is doing in basketball, 4-7, maybe the 2 of them should move in with both of their traitor families. I am a Mich fan, but I gotta for any opponent against EX-coach ROD, is his son A-ROD??? Get your stuff out of Morgantown because it might end up getting burnt in Sunnyside. BC, Miami, and VT left, Syracuse wanted to, and now all of our fans throw Oranges at them. Cant imagine what WVU fans would throw at him in Phoenix. He turned his back on WV, hope that Mich fans have to endure the same thing in a few years and then proven to them that he is a punk, and all he wants is money. GO WVU, GO FLORIDA
Posted by: Lindsey on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:02 AM
Rod, You did beautiful things for West Virginia University. You gave us chances we would have never thought of, and opened millions of doors. Ignore the public and God bless you and your family. I hope for nothing but the best for you. All my heart.
Posted by: Amanda on Dec 17, 2007 at 10:02 AM
I think Michigan needs to start finding there own coaches and stop stealing ours. But thats ok maybe we will be better off. Huggins has came in and doing a good job I say bring on the Bouden's... its in their blood. As for Coach Rod Gov. Machin said it all! Lets go Mountaineers!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Kathy on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:58 AM
Leave, Rodriguez you arent welcome here anymore. How could you do this before a bowl game? Goes to show us what kind of a person you are, not much.
Posted by: william on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:57 AM
I am a diehard fan.. but the he coached the pitt game im glad he is gone.. he is a bumm.lets go eers lets win the fiesta then take the national championship next year and show him what he could of had.
Posted by: Chris on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:54 AM
Is this really important? They had a coach before this guy and will have one after him. FOLKS, THIS IS JUST FOOTBALL!!! There are plenty of things of much much greater importance than WVU football. Try thinking about your family, especially this time of year. Think about the child who was born 2000 years ago that gave His life for mankind. Think about your life, what will others say of you when your gone? Think of eternity, are you ready for it? There's nothing wrong with football, it's exciting and everyone enjoys it. But don't forget the really important things.
Posted by: former professor on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:53 AM
I wish Coach Rod every success possible. He has a chance of a lifetime!! The rest of the WVU fans, get a life.
Posted by: Frustrated on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:52 AM
I feel sorry for the boys that he has coached for 5 years and then he doesn't show them the respect and loyalty to be there when they go to the bowl game. Then their are the new recruits that will probably go to Michigan. I would not hold him up as a role model and what is he teaching his boys but to quit when things get rough. It's all about the money and no one cares about anyonelse. I have been to Michigan and who would want to live there. Good Riddens to Bad Rubbish! The whole state will be better off!
Posted by: Mary Jane on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:46 AM
I'm starting to wonder if Rodriguez knew something about White and Slayton that we don't know yet, like they are playing to leave for the draft. If that were the case, that would explain him leaving. Not that it doesn't tick me off that he is leaving before the Fiesta Bowl. What would a matter of a few days matter. It's not like he will be coaching their bowl game. They may have throw more money at him but I don't think he will have anywhere near the success as he did hear. I just hope that this doesn't rattle our players so much that they don't show of for our bowl game. I would hate for OK to stomp on us just because of this. I do know who I will be rooting for now, anyone who plays against Michagian.
Posted by: Marshall Fan on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:41 AM
Good Luck Coach, GO HERD!
Posted by: Patty on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:33 AM
Governor Manchin said Coach Rodriguez was the victim of some sort of college coaching system -- bull crap. He wasn't a victim of ANYTHING, because he always had the option of saying no and staying where he is. Let' go Buckeyes!!!!!
Posted by: Charles on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:31 AM
Rich Rod backed out of his obligation. Shows his character. WVU, don't pull another Belein and back down on the buyout. One penny less than the $4 million would be unacceptable. And I vote he doesn't coach in our BCS game.
Posted by: Gary on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:30 AM
Once he leaves our state. I wouldn't let him back in. I can understand a coach leaving to return to college ranks as Petrino did. But to leave your alma mater and home state. I'll be rooting for Ohio State from now on!
Posted by: Maxine on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:30 AM
There he goes! I guess we are all upset because we thought he would stay at home. But just like us he found a better job, more money, bigger fish to fry, and off he went. The sorry sad part is the players he left behind and he didn't finish the season. There is still one more game. Oh well, the deed is done. Let's move on. We need a football coach as we have a game to win. WVU has a winning season and a good group of players, so let rally around the team and go out to Az and beat the Sooners.
Posted by: Paul on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:21 AM
What happened to the live feed at 9:am ?????
Posted by: Anon on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:15 AM
He was already out the door at the Pitt game, that was obvious. This is a BUNCH of crap. I thought he had CLASS but he doesn't. Couldn't he have least waited until after the Bowl Game? He whammed those kids right in the heart before they have to play OK. Not to mention the State and fans, he owed those PLAYERS and that TEAM better than that! He couldn't WAIT to announce his move and that sucks. As an Ohio State fan, here's even MORE reason to HATE Michigan. I say good riddance to him. He's a liar, a turncoat and a jerk. He just said, he hopes to go to "someone who WILL have success rather than just expect it"! Well, you sure took WV's MONEY didn't you Rod? So we "hoped" for success! We'll STILL have it without you! We were WVU BEFORE you came and will be after you are long gone!
Posted by: grant on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:15 AM
Let's go Appalachian State
Posted by: Mike on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:13 AM
Well Rich you really goofed up leaving WVU. First, you have this team right on the brink of something special then you leave. Second, you are leaving the Big East for the Big Ten give me a break what you think that is a better conference yeah right. If you put the top teams from the Big East and the Big Ten together the Big East would roll. It always comes down to Michigan and Ohio State dont know hwich is worse. But here is the funny thing the way your running away form WVU my friend you had better hope you beat the Bucks or you will be running out of Michigan like you did WV. Go Bucks I hope Rich loses every game he plays against the Bucks or maybe another Appy State will help out the matters by beating them again I figure next time they play a division 3 school but hopefully they would put it on you to. To all loyal WVU fans lets forget about Richy Rich Rod cause he is about money but my opinion he had to beat Pitt and he choked cant blame the players cause it starts with the coach.
Posted by: Margaret on Dec 17, 2007 at 09:09 AM
Don't let the door hit ya on the way out!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:59 AM
It's simple. It's all about the money. Everyone has their price.
Posted by: ella on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:50 AM
Makes me wonder about his coaching at the Pitt game. You don'thve to be Lombardi to know to run the ball to a better position so your kicker can make a field goal. And what's with the 8 miutes more that it took White's hand to heal. He could have come back right after half-time. $$$ - remember Coach Rod - the love of money is the root of all evil - you will get your butt kicked in Ann Arbor. To all those "kids" out there, I'm a 40 year alumni of WVU and we've weathered worse than this so MU fans don't get your hopes up about us falling a part - we've been in the big time since before most of you were born.
Posted by: MU FAN on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:48 AM
It is a shame the way that WVU "fans" are talking about about this man. It just shows how truly ungreatful they are. This man has brought so much to their school and their football program how could they not be thankful. I will forever be grateful for the many coaches that Marshall has had because they have brought our program a long way. You should not be mad at him this man has a family to take care of and coaching is a job. Many people transfer jobs due to better offers. I am not a WVU fan in the least but I do apprecitate what he has done just for our state alone. So quit all your pouting and move on. It will be o.k.
Posted by: pete on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:43 AM
hey jeff, loyality? good typing buddy, just stick to stupid coments.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:41 AM
OK. Well, the way I see it is, this is the second time he has talked about leaving WVU. I would rather him go now, then talk about leaving every single year. Im not mad at him, I do think he is doing what "he thinks" is right for himself and his family. But I do think (in my opinion) that he is "money hungry"! I mean, its not like they weren't paying him tons of money at WVU! But I guess, someone wanted to give him more! I just think its sad to see him leave this team that seemed to respect him sooo much. He should have respected them a little bit more! The best thing about him, he seemed to be a true West Virginian. But, thats all gone now, he will never be able to come back without the whole state looking down on him. Good luck to him and his family, even though I am very dissapointed with his decesion!
Posted by: Amy on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:39 AM
I have to be honest I am an Ohio State fan through and through. However, I couldn't help but to be apalled at how WVU's coach did to WVU. I can't believe he did that before the Fiesta Bowl! I really do believe the coach did WVU dirty! He has totally lost class with me, and I hope that the WVU fans will unite with Ohio State next year when we play Michigan! I hope Ohio State brings him down!
Posted by: Linda on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:35 AM
Why are you covering the news conference from the University of Michigan? Rodrigueq has left West Virginia who cares what he has to say in Michigan.
Posted by: fedup on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:33 AM
hey, at the end of the day "WE still AREn't MARSHALL" go eers!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:33 AM
I have yet to understand why anyone is shocked or upset at his leaving! Are you kidding me? Money talks every single time! What happened to being true to your word? A MOUNTAINEER FOREVER???? Please! Oh and I don't even like football! RICH=LOSER!!! GOOD LUCK WVU--YOU WILL FIND A MUCH BETTER COACH---A MUCH BETTER MAN!
Posted by: rich on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:25 AM
hey guys its you know who. i just wanted to explain myself. after loosing to pitt, they asked me to leave.
Posted by: Steve Morris on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:23 AM
I feel that Manchin should worry about the state and not the state of WVU football. He would not be concerned if it were another head coach from a College or University throughout the State of West Virginia. GO SOONERS! GO HERD!!!!
Posted by: ROB on Dec 17, 2007 at 08:04 AM
PEOPLE ROD WASN'T THE ONLY COACH @ WVU IT TAKES MORE COACHES THAN 1 TO COACH A TEAM AND I SAY THANKS TO ALL THE OTHER LOYAL COACHES THAT WVU HAVE FOR STAYING WE WILL MAKE IT ALL THE WAY WITH ALL THE COACHES THAT STILL BELIEVE IN WVU HATS OFF TO U GO AND SHOW WHO THE REAL COACHES ERE IN THE BOWL GAME
Posted by: Heather on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:26 AM
I feel that Rich done the team wrong, but am I surprised? No. I feel he has always been about money and that's fine if he can sleep at night with his decision. For the Mountaineer team, my heart goes out to you and even though you don't have support from Richy Rich, you have 110% support from me and other TRUE Mountaineers. Mountaineers all the way!
Posted by: RG on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:22 AM
Everyone in the state feels betrayed. We all took for granted that he was a WV boy like the rest of us and they he would stay. Once agine, blinded by the all mighty dollar. The part that really stinks is that hes leaving his players out to dry for the bowl game. Like all of this couldnt have waited until after the first of the year. Everyone in the state was let down.
Posted by: GoodbyeRichieGoodbye on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:21 AM
This is for the best. Rich obviously doesn't want to be here. Maybe our next coach will be able to pull the team together enough to beat unranked Pitt. After Rich loses to OSU the second time, he'll be back at Salem.
Posted by: lisa on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:16 AM
i am sad. i think he is awesome. but as fans what choice did he have? we didnt act very mature at the pitt loss. yea it was a big game, but they are kids and i am sure they didnt go to the game hoping to lose....we will make do with what ever coach they bring in and we will rise to the challenges that come, we mountaineers will always be winners. and who knows, maybe with this coach we will win a national title !!!!
Posted by: D. on Dec 17, 2007 at 07:05 AM
In my opinion, Michigan had this man BEFORE the Pitt Game!! The boys very well could have won that game and I feel that Rich didn't want to miss out on coaching at the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP so he purposely blew the Pitt game!! Apparently, WV doesn't mean CRAP to him or his family! It was wrong of him to say he loved it here and wasn't going to leave this state and it was best for his family to stay here! He is a liar and he has betrayed this state and I hope to God that none of his staff or players go with him!
Posted by: Charlie on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:49 AM
Rich must be related to petrino (Both liars and careless thoughts for young men,their famlies and fans) Maybe they both can take their money and buy their own football team!
Posted by: Eric on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:24 AM
RR sold us all out. He wasn't happy at WVU and needed to go. His mistakes cost us 2 games this season. Manchin called him a victim! Time dor us all to stop being blackmailed. RR made $1.8 mill a year PLUS ALL PERKS in the poorest state in the country. GOOD LUCK AT MICHIGAN...DON'T LET THE DOOR HIT YOU IN THE BACK...Maybe your buddy Joe Manchin can go too!
Posted by: Darin on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:14 AM
Rich Rodriguez has given Wikipedia a new definition for the phrase "Long Haul" Definition- 1 year. Guess we all know now how dedicated he is to WVU.
Posted by: david on Dec 17, 2007 at 06:04 AM
sounds like rich might be a true coach, maybe against his will wvu sold out to the bcs and lost to pitt, bcs can't make they money with wv in the national title game that they can with lsu vs pitt, did you see those field goals? and where was owen? did he even play, nope he's a senior and has no reason to sell out. maybe dirty politics is why rich rod got outta town and went to a team where the bcs will let him coach to his top potential?
Posted by: MYBIKEFLIES on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:45 AM
At least with Nealan we did play for the national championship, That is something that rod will never be able to say,
Posted by: BUCK FAN on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:43 AM
isn't it always about the money, Just not the best timing he should have waited and not left his team on the field like he did, But not to worry about Rich he will get whats coming every year when he plays the bucks and then he won"t last long at michigan
Posted by: Mark on Dec 17, 2007 at 05:40 AM
I think coach Rod committed treason. His own state made him a millionaire yet this is not enough. His actions were very UN-West Virginia like.
Posted by: Rich on Dec 17, 2007 at 04:08 AM
All I can say is Terry Bowden COME ON DOWN!!!!!!
Posted by: Brett on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:41 AM
I think this may be a positive change for our beloved eers,I think that Pitt proved our offensive well had been ran dry,seven years and the same plays over and over again we need a passing game to go along with the run.And with that said we also need a better defense,the 335 stack dosent add up against the pass any team with a fair QB has picked us apart.So maybe hell take the defensive coordinator with him when goes.So in closing i want to tell all the players to keep their up and their chin straps snapped because we have a bowl game to win.You all know the plays well and what works and what dosent so go have fun and dont worry about Rich we'll be just fine without him. Bleedin Blue and Gold!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: susan on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:19 AM
I belive he has a right to leave, are all you guys thats bickering going to pay his bills, I didn't think so.....
Posted by: Bob on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:15 AM
Looks like our coach was as trustworthy and loyal as Bobby Petrino. I don't know how any true Mountaineer could be dishonest about saying I'm a Mountaineer and always will be unless you never was a true mountaineer, enough said about that. Its a sad day when NCAA allows this kind of stuff goes on and its all about the money and not about the best interest of the college kids. My little 4 year old said " daddy I thought you said he was a true mountaineer and he wouldn't leave". Guess he fooled me and I say Hit the road Rich and never come back No More. I was tired of hearing my players didn't execute instead of accepting the fact he was to stubborn and was out coached, that excuse won't be accepted at Michigan if you can't make adjustments. The loyal Michigan fans will get dumped on down the road, what goes around comes around , the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Good Luck in Tempe and "LETS GO MOUNTAINEERS"
Posted by: Jeff T. on Dec 17, 2007 at 03:08 AM
Well after reading all of these all I can say is the players are the one left on the field with a trader for a coach here at bowl time (again) I only hope they as a team approach him and tell him to move on today and don't further taint our team by going to the bowl game. Go Mountaineers, and so long Rod burning bridges as you go don't these teams look at how there coach got to them by bailing out before a bowl game come on would you hire someone with so little thought on how this effects the team, well real creater is just what it is it isn't the team it's all about the money and how many toe you have to step on the get it.
Posted by: WVU FAN on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:57 AM
We must be thinking of the team tonight. They are the one's who must bear the brunt of being abandones by their coach. These kids need all of our support. They will need to hold their heads high and play their game in the Fiesta Bowl. We must stand firmly behind them all the way. I can not begin to imagine the devastation they are going through. They need us more than we need them tonight. I am very proud of the manner in which they accepted the biggest shock of their football career today. They are the true WVU Mountaineers and we are very proud of them. I wish the new "America's college football team" the best of luck against Oklahoma. They will have the majority of the country on their side in the Fiesta Bowl. We are behind the Mountaineers all the way to victory. All that there is left to say is; Hold your heads high and keep your spirits up. Together, we can bring home another bowl victory. LET'S GOOOOOOOO MOUNTAINEERS!!!!!! BEAT THE SOONERS!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 02:46 AM
After the way the team played in the Pitt game... like they just didnt care. I dont blame coach Rod.
Posted by: CHARLIE on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:54 AM
RICH WHO? HOW MUCH MONEY CAN ONE SPEND? CALVIN MCGHEE WOULD BE A MOST LOGICAL CHOICE. MR.PASTILONG WOULD DO WELL FOR WVU AND THE TEAM TO MAKE THIS HIRE. ROD WAS NOT THE ENTIRE TEAM...JUST A CRUMB OF THE PIE. GO MOUNTAINEERS!!!!!
Posted by: WVChick on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:47 AM
Well I thought something wasnt right about the pitt game seemed as if Ol Rich was trying to lose the game which he successfully done. I think he had all this planed out from the get go. Its amazing what money does to a person. Greed will get your nowhere. What do you expect from someone with the last name Rodriguez look at where it decends from. Nothing but traitors. For a coach to leave a team on the field with no head coach in one of the biggest games of the year is terrible. However lord knows he would probably screw it up for those hard working boys. WV would have had a horrible season next year if he would stay anyways. He has become so predictable. Everyone knows his rituals. Every 8th play Schmitt Runs, etc etc. You cant win games when the other team knows your next move . I bet you any amount of money the EERs come out on Jan 2 guns blazing and take the win without a traitor on board. Our boys win because they are talented. Signed a , TRUE WEST VIRGINIAN GO MOUNTAINEERS
Posted by: Lizza on Dec 17, 2007 at 01:27 AM
Talk about selfish leaving the mountaineers before the bowl game. I see money was more important. I don't see how the coach is the victum. He's letting the team down by leaving before the Fiesta bowl has been played. Mountaineers can,and will win without him.
Posted by: Jeff on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:58 AM
Trader??? At least he spelled THIER right even if he didnt use it correctly.
Posted by: Kyle on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:47 AM
Like everyone says, it's about the money. But how much does Rich need? He was making well enough in Morgantown. If he was a true Mountaineer, he'd deal with the athletic department issues and he'd see what a great progam he had built. Best of luck to the "real" Mountaineers.
Posted by: anonymos on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:09 AM
The Gov needs to stop playing the victum card with coach Rodriguez. Michigan need to get off thier high horse,and come back down to earth. Thier not all that shame on Rodriguez for leaving the team right before the bowl game. Coach Rodriguez you could have waited unitl after the bowl game then go up. Take your sorry self on up thier. Trader!
Posted by: Jeff on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:08 AM
Rich is showing as much loyality as would be shown him if he were to have a bad season. I read the comments by fans after the Pitt game. Those were enough to make anybody want to look elsewhere.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 17, 2007 at 12:07 AM
I hope OU beats the living crap outta Michigan just so he will look like a fool . Get out now rodriguez you arent welcome here anymore. You backstabbing ,lieing ,traitor.
Posted by: Bean on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:50 PM
WAIT TILL OHIO STATE BEATS MICH. ROD MAY END UP AT PITT.BY THE WAY, THE BIG TEN IS AWFUL, I THOUGHT WE HAD A LOYAL COACH. HOW MANY MILLIONS DO YA NEED?
Posted by: Richard on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:46 PM
How can he say that he is a true West Virginian? We West Virginians keep our word no matter what it cost us. He has dishonored all us by doing this. I hope he can look in mirror with a clear conscious! I do wish the best for his family. I know our mountaineers will over come this and play a great game Jan. 2. LETS GO MOUNTAINEERS!!!!!
Posted by: Bob on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:45 PM
Nothing bad to say, I am not a big football fan but would like to state the obvious. A persons best predictor of the future is their past. Rich will win football games for Michigan. He will be pursued by other schools in the future. He will promise to stay at Michigan for more $$. He will then leave Michagan later for more $$. He will leave his Michigan team on the field without a head coach, maybe even at a bowl game. But he will win Michigan some games. Best of luck to Michigan Fans.
Posted by: jeremy on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:42 PM
rich rodriguez betrayed his players and the state and all the fans hes a two faced backstabber....he could have waited till the last game was over he sucked coaching the pitt game and i'm glad to see him go....lets go mountaineers!!!
Posted by: Jason on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:37 PM
Go Appy ,GO Gators & Go Rich, If I was in Morgantown I would go too. He Just shows the character of those northerners.
Posted by: allen on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:35 PM
It is truely a shame that a man can leave a state and university that has been so good to him and his family. we have stood behind him and believed in him and now well the only thing i can say is he should hang his head as he leaves god knows he don't deserve the the respect and admiration i have given him over the years. I am truely embarrassed to have been a supporter and fan of Rich Rodriquez. I used to reffer to him as coach but not any more now it is traitor and cowered.
Posted by: Mich Fan on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:32 PM
All I can say is "GO BIG BLUE".
Posted by: JM on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:31 PM
I say if he wants to go, let him go! Of course he is betraying his state and his team, but who wants someone coaching OUR team that obviously doesn't want to. It's all about money. He should have just gone last year and been done with it. The Mountaineers are a TEAM not a coach! I say let's move on and get someone in the coaching position that actually wants to coach a team! Go 'EERS!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: michelle on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:14 PM
i think that it is just really rude of him to do that to the players right before the last game... he could of at least waited until after the game...oh well hopefully they will get a better coach. go mountaineers!!!
Posted by: Pam on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:09 PM
I think Coach Rodriquez is making a big mistake. He has been good for West Virginia and I think he should stay at this school for a while longer. It seems like everytime something good happens to WVU the rug is pulled out from under it and they have to start from scratch all over again. I think he needs to stay at WVU and fight for what is right and get things changed that benefits the schools, students, faculty and others. I think he is taking the easy way out. HE should not be allowed to coach the team at the Fiesta Bowl. He has betrayed the team and he has let the team down and he doesn't deserve to coach the team any more. He needs to pack his belongings and his family and moved to Michigan. HE should not receive any more money from WVU and the money he was offered in his contract last year he should have to repay and MIchigan should buyout his contract. I wish WVU the best at the Fiesta Bowl and I hope the pull together as a team and win one WITHOUT Rodriquez.
Posted by: Laura Jean on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:06 PM
Give the man a break, I'm sure he hadn't planned on this announcement before the bowl game but press left him no option, dog'n him. He's intitled to have the life he desires and if he felt it was time for him to move on for whatever reasons then wish him well on his new endeavor. Good Luck Coach, and Merry Christmas and Happy New Years.
Posted by: Johnny on Dec 16, 2007 at 11:05 PM
Great,leave and never come back you no good, dirty, rotten, cut throat, piece of %#@#%&%@#!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: dumb hillbilly on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:55 PM
There is no loyalty in collage sports just as in the pros. You go where the money is, and its obviously Michigan (shocker) It amazes me that Rich thought all you WVU fans were that stupid to believe he flew to Toledo to meet with his financial adviser! Come on Rod think of something better. And Gov. Manchin calling poor millionaire Rich a "victim" Victim of what? His check book!? Rod if your reading this, I'll give you 2 seasons and you'll be job hunting just like Jim Donnan did after Georgia fired him! So don't spend all you new found riches (riches get it! hehe) too fast!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:55 PM
TO THE GOV KIDS ARE GOING TO BED WITHOUT FOOD AND THIS IS WHAT HE IS CRYING GIVE ME A BREAK HE SHOULD BE IMPEACHED I HOPE HE GOES TO MICH WITH HIM I HOPE YOU SLEEP WELL AT NIGHT CRY BABY
Posted by: JIM on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:47 PM
HEY COACH--ITS ALL ABOUT THE MONEY RIGHT? GO TO MICHIGAN AND TRY TO GET MORE MONEY. DONT LET RESPECT GET IN YOUR WAY BIG BOY. EARN THAT EXTRA DOLLAR BUDDY. KEEP MOVING! SOMEDAY YOU'LL LOOK BACK AND SEE WHAT YOU HAD.DON'T WORRY ABOUT YOUR STATE. WE'LL BE FINE--AT LEAST WE CAN NOW BEAT PITT---- WITHOUT YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Brian on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:43 PM
Being a loyal Mountaineer from Boone County this has to be one of my saddest times as a WVU fan. But we must move forward and get behind the WVU football program. I remember an opening day game in Norman, Oklahoma when an unranked WVU team went in there and tore them up. WVU 41 OU 27. My how quick we are to forget the good times.I still love WVU football and the good times are coming back. Just be proud that you are a Mountaineer.
Posted by: anon on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:39 PM
Welcome to the world of Business. Universities and colleges are corporations. College Athletics is a business within those corporations. Rich made a business decision. In business these days, loyalty is not really an option and this is in all facets of industry, not just college athletics. Unlike 40 years ago, most individuals don't stay with one business for their entire adult lives. Now, who made it a business????? The fans did. They demand the best players, the best staduim, the nicest uniforms, etc. The pull monetary support if the team is not winning. So the teams has to make money...they do this with the business end of athletics. Rich was offered more money to coach a superior team. Just like a marketing exec who took a job with a better firm for more money, he would have been stupid not to take it.
Posted by: Maxine on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:37 PM
I feel very betrayed by him but on the other hand can you blame him? His one chance to going to a national championship was shot after they lost to Pitt. Even if White and Slayton both would have came back next year, think of how many of our defensive starters we are losing. I think that White and Slayton both will go for the draft because it's hard to get use to a new system after your used to one way. I do think it was poor taste that the announcement was made now and not after the Fiesta Bowl. You know something like this will lay heavy on his players and effect their playing.
Posted by: Ashley on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:30 PM
Marshall people need to Shut their mouths they have nothing in this. Marshall sucks and they are just jealous.
Posted by: mike on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:24 PM
I am so excited to see him and his team roll around in the sorrow that they deserve. Their team acts like they are National Champions and for some reason, I have never seen them win the national title. See ya later Rod, bye to "My hand hurts" White, and also bye to "No Show" Slaton.
Posted by: Tom on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:08 PM
Coach Rod couldn't beat So. Fla.or Pitt with a better team than what Michigan has now. Why do the people at Michigan think he can beat Ohio State, Penn State, Wisconsin, etc.?? He's a solid mid-level coach but he lacks the skills of a BIG time college coaches. Just watch.... he'll be the Mark Snyder of Ann Arbor after 2 seasons.
Posted by: David Young on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:08 PM
breaking..........Mark Snyder leading candidate for WVU's head coaching position...more to come as it unfolds
Posted by: Jax on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:06 PM
It's certainly a shame that Rich is leaving before the Fiesta Bowl, but perhaps he thinks WVU will lose the bowl game and doesn't want it on his record. Who knows? Soooo who will be the next coach? Bowden???? just hoping.....
Posted by: Scott on Dec 16, 2007 at 10:04 PM
He shows no class. He should at least stay and finish his season like a real coach. I liked rod until i heard he was leaving before the season was over. good luck to wvu fans and lets hope you find a coach that cares.
Posted by: Donna on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:54 PM
Come on people, anyone able to better thier financial situation for them and thier family..more power to them...and of course it is about money...it is what we have to have in order to survive...it is called business....you cant pay bills by the goodness of your heart...quit taking thins so personal...wish him the best...and move on
Posted by: john on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:47 PM
Seems like "sour grapes" to me. Your Gov. Manchin mentioned the vicitmizing "college coaching system" and "back room business deals". I'm quite certain that the university and the state of WV will throw it all out to entice your next coach to WVU. Welcome to the University of Michigan Coach Rod. Go Wolverines!!!
Posted by: mike on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:45 PM
ok, michigan or west virginia, come on what would you do?
Posted by: Preacher on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:40 PM
It would be nice to know if any of you people are concerned about where your soul is going to spend eternity instead of worrying about some stupid ball games!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:37 PM
As a coach, do you not tell your players that they stick together through thick and thin? Now he leaves before a bowl game! I guess these kids are feeling pretty crappy that he did this!!!! I think he is a traitor!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:27 PM
Do you people really think Rodriguez is sitting at home giving a crap about what you think????????? Gotta go where the money takes you.......
Posted by: candy lynn on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:18 PM
i hope Rodriguez you are happy and proud to sale out your wvu guys and fans what goes around comes around we stood by you know matter what and you sole out your wvu boys and there fans you need to leave with your head between your legs where you belong in shame.
Posted by: kenny on Dec 16, 2007 at 09:02 PM
as a sooner fan i would like to thank coach rod for his timing. bacause he just made the win for ou(at the fiesta bowl) that much easier. sooners rule. w/rod ou 45 wvu 3 wo/rod ou 78 wvu 0
Posted by: glyn on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:55 PM
after giving rodrigues every thing he asked for last year, he at least should have had the class to coach the last game of the year before making his annoucement. not only is he not completing his contract in good faith,he has completely ruined the excitement over the bowl game. what more does his ego need? he had a great year a great program and the loyalty of all the wv fans. did he even think of these things? I suggest we give him as much consideration as he has given us. i hope he gets fired by mich in 1-2 years. i don't think he'll ever have loyalty or the love of the people in michigan that he has here. but in the end it's all about his ego, not loyalty or or even keeping the promise he made to the state last year to stay. that and the money. i hope it keeps him warm in the frozen lands up there
Posted by: jackson on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:52 PM
Terry Bowden the door is open come on we know how to treat our coaches here but they do not stay loyal to the state Terry if it was ever open to you this is the time GET YOUR PAPERS IN TOMORROW AND WE JUST MIGHT HAVE YOU ON THE SIDELINES AGAINST THE SOONERS.
Posted by: Frank on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:50 PM
Goodbye Rod! Maybe we will get someone who will do more than 3 quarterback draws every possession. To the Herd fans, WVU could beat you without a coach every year. Maybe it is time the Herd steps back to the little leagues. WVU is a winning program and always will be.
Posted by: Ohio State's Newest Fan on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:45 PM
Gary Pinkel proudly defended his team after losing to Oklahoma. What did Rich Rodriguez do when he lost to Pitt? CRY.
Posted by: Chip on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:40 PM
I, for one, am not sorry to see 2- Play Rod go. I had a bad feeling about him from the start. I find him objectional. After reading his lips on national TV and knowing he is belittling his team and using filthy language, it sickens me to hear him thank God for the win. If he truly had a relationship with God those words wouldn't pass his lips and his attitude would a little more humble. Coaches don't have to behave in an ugly way. Follow the example of Tony Dungee. There is a true Christian coach. So, Mr. Rodriguez, best of luck at Michigan and please search your heart to see if you have a real relationship with God. If not, don't thank him with the same dirty mouth you use on the field. Don't be a hypocrite in more than one way. I am not being judgemental. The Bible tells us how to behave. I don't see you exhibiting such behavior. And thank all of you, in advance, who will call me an extreme Christian and judge me. Coach I will continue to pray for you and your family. God be with you.
Posted by: John on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:39 PM
Only loyalty Coach Rod showed to WVU is the fact that he keep the same team colors. I have lost all respect for him, I just feel sorry for the players who leader has abondened them! Why couldn't he have waited till after the Fiesta Bowl to do this. Go Mountainers!!
Posted by: HUNTER on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:27 PM
I THINK IT WAS STUPID FOR RICH TO GO TO MICHIGAN BECAUSE HE HAD A GREAT TEAM HERE AND WVU DID EVERYTHING HE WANTED TO KEEP HIM HERE A YEAR AGO. I THOUGHT HE COACHED FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME NOT THE MONEY.WHERE IS HIS LOYALTY TO HIS TEAM AND THE STATE
Posted by: Chris on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:27 PM
So, he couldn't strike a private deal with Michigan that wouldn't be announced until after WVU's season was completed? And so it wouldn't overshadow his WVU players' chance to shine in the Fiesta Bowl?
Posted by: beth on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:25 PM
I have lost my respect for Rodriguez for leaving the team before the fiesta bowl NO! Michigan SINKS. GO! Mountaineers!!!!!!
Posted by: steven on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:20 PM
as a coach you got to better yourself i think it was the right thing to do easyer to recuit and more media time plus it is being part of the biggest game in college football i don't blame him but he needs to take snyder with him now who will wvu go out to get big shoes to feel don't get in a hurry pick the right guy for the job cause you don't want to go back down like marshall coach rod built a powerhouse
Posted by: Taylor on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:20 PM
I say....that the alma mater ment nothing to him. Its all about the money and the publicity. He didnt care about this state or the school or the players. Let Him go...he's already did this once with Alabama. I say to just let him go.my comment to Former WVURich Rodrieguez "Dont Let the Door Hit Ya Where the Good Lord Split Ya!!!" "I hope UM loses every game while your up there" Im Out.
Posted by: Cisco on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:16 PM
It is the WVU fans that made Rodriguez to leave, he is afraid that someone will send him threats like they did with the place kicker. WVU fans need to real fans whoever the coach maybe. don't cry.... move on and support the next coach
Posted by: Jeff on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:14 PM
HA HA HA..First they choked against Pitt and now their coach abandons the team!! Loyalty? Go Herd!
Posted by: Jason on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:13 PM
I have been a Mountaineer fan all my life and I do not feel that Coach Rodriguez has betrayed us. I feel that there are certain WV players are to blame if he leaves. In the past several years the Mountaineers have been in several championship contentions, but and our key players have had mysterious injuries or shanking field goals. I do not blame a coach that has given us 100%, when the players aren't. If you were a coach and have them odds stacked up against you, you would pack your bags to. I want to thank Coach Rodriguez for the great games and the disappointing ones to. Congratulations and Good Luck in the future; and Best wishes for your family. Thank You, Jason
Posted by: Get Over It on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:11 PM
All of you stamping your little feetsies like pouting pre-schoolers over Rodriguez' departure need to grow up. The man is doing what most college coaches do in the course of their careers. Nothing wrong with anyone wanting an advancement in my view so everybody quit your whining and get a life!
Posted by: frank on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:09 PM
i would like to know how long has he known he was going to leave.did this play a role in his game against pitt.he did not coach or react like coach rod and if he did win how was he going to leave. it is all a little fishy how it all played out. i just feel cheated as a wvu fan and wv resident who is proud to be from and live in west virginia. thank you.
Posted by: Wes Holden on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:02 PM
I am so sick in the pit of my stomach. I thought that nothing worse could happen after West Virginia lost to Pitt. Now this. I thought that the only thing that Rich Rod cared about was West Virginia and the Mountaineer football team. Hopefully during his press conference tomorrow, some reporter should ask him how much he sold out his team for. I thought that true West Virginian as coach we would not have to worry about " Our Coach being bought by the highest bidder". Are there any real decent coaches left any more, especially ones from West Virginia?
Posted by: KRISTI on Dec 16, 2007 at 08:01 PM
DOES IT NOT BOTHER ANYONE THAT HE WAS OUT RECRUITING FOR MICHIGAN ON WVU MONEY AND TIME AND DONT YOU FIND IT SAID THAT NEW MICHICAN RECUIT PRYOR NEW ABOUT "RICH" ROD BEFORE HIS OWN BOYS DID...WHY TO DO YOUR STATE AND BOYS PROUD...GOOD RIDDENS
Posted by: Bob on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:57 PM
I think the University should demand the full $4 million and this time accept no less. The lies leading up to the announcement is uncalled for. If you're man enough to interview for a jop opening then be upfront about it. Quit thee lying.
Posted by: Karen on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:45 PM
I am so disappointed that he would leave us before the bowl game, I hope the team can pull together and have a big win in our bowl. Go Mountaineers, we love you.
Posted by: momma on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:33 PM
so much for "in rod we trust"
Posted by: s on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:27 PM
I'd like to thank Rich for all the good things he did for the football program over the past seven years. I wish him all the best at Michigan. I sure hate to see him go, but that is life sometimes. I just wish that teams would have more respect and wait until AFTER the bowl season before they go out and find themselves a new head coach.
Posted by: Fan on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:26 PM
Just what I figured. Why do you people think WVU lost to Pitt????????????Rod was afraid to play Ohio State!!!!! Out with the old, in with the new. New is always better. GO WVU!
Posted by: Scotty on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:24 PM
He probably threw the pitt game so it would be easier to make the move to michigan. No was did he coach to his potential in that game. His agent already had the deal done!
Posted by: Lyle on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:24 PM
Odd, isn't it? WVU has a coach they want to keep and Marshall has a coach we can't get rid of!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:19 PM
now i know why we lost the game
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:12 PM
MAYBE THE GOV NEEDS TO GO WITH RICH TO MICH. IF HE FILL HE'S A VICTIM MABYBE MICH. WILL PAY HIM 2.5 MILLION TO WASTE THEIR TAXPAYERS DOLLARS
Posted by: Tom on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:06 PM
Rich, just leave now traitor. out team and state will be better off when you leave and go get your check. we will do fine without you. Mountaineers will dig in deep and find a true winner. consisdering you are the real reason we lost against Pitt you should be ashamed that you thinkk you deserve a team like Michigan after that poor display of coaching. All your fault for that loss. dont let the door hit you pal.
Posted by: pj on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:00 PM
i hope michigan is your last stop rod cause you won't be welcome at home again,, no loyality no creditability, no fans, and players that have been sold out for the all mighty dollar. coach rod, your moving your family to a state with the highest crime rate in this part of the country, you will no longer enjoy the quaility of life you know only west virginia can provide you, what a stupid move, hope your money keeps you safe and warm,, shame on you trador
Posted by: TK on Dec 16, 2007 at 07:00 PM
I agree with a previous posting. He needs to turn in his keys and not coach the Fiesta Bowl. His team will not be in it and I am afraid they will take a beating. a noble man would leave now with some dignity and not put more salt in the wound. As they say in the business world Rich, "Don't let the door hit you in the fanny on your way out". I say leave now and save some face.!!!! Go Mounties!!!!
Posted by: RoaneCo. on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:59 PM
Can we also send Tony Caridi and the rest of Rod's little puppets too? Yea, I know I'm just another "Joe Blow Fan" that doesn't know anything about football. But I sure had Rod figured out!! I wonder if they will still raise the price of my season tickets next year. I just wonder how the powers that be at WVU feel now. I bet Rod didn't even kiss them when he was done!! Maybe someday this whole country will figure out that money isn't everything. I love our team and our kids and I hope only the best for them. Let's Gooooooo!! Mountaineeeeeeeers!!
Posted by: Kyle on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:59 PM
I must say, welcome Rich to the Big Ten. Buckeye nation looks forward to keeping our tradition in the Tressel era of beating Michigan alive. You will find out how tough the Big Ten is. Oh and no Hart or Henne, shoulda stayed in WV
Posted by: Pete on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:58 PM
hey rich, please add marshall to your new schedule @ Michigan.... that will be your first win!!!
Posted by: Barbara on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:55 PM
Gov. Manchin is correct about the situation in college sports. Today it is all about me and money. Gone are the days of loalty to first your players, then to the college and the fans. Coach Rod got his feelings hurt over the Pitt debacle and decided to abandoned ship. For me personally, I feel as if I must get off this merry-go-round. It is very difficult to continue the enthusiasm for the game. Hats off to the players for the wonderful year, and I wish them all the best.
Posted by: wvu fan on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:54 PM
KARMAS GONNA GET YOU ROD!!!!!!
Posted by: Pete on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:52 PM
the only thing worse than rich rod leaving for Michigan would be him taking a job at the god for saken pitiful blundering herd campus. but why would he step down in talent and a division? he is a sell out and will never be welcome back in this state. even so... WVU will win the rest of the scheduled games and finish at 7-0 against the div. III ...sorry perinial, dynasty, powerhouse,... no wait i was right at first, div. III or sub-div. marshall.
Posted by: John on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:51 PM
Rich has been good for WV and we've enjoyed the new energy his teams have displayed. Face it, How many of us would keep our old jobs if somebody else offered us twice as much money to do the same thing we love doing. I doubt any of you doubters would say "NO" to that situation. It has nothing to do with pride. He's young and wants to be all he can be, and the MONEY does matter. I'm a west virginia fan, but Michigan is twice the opportunity that WV is if you are a young coach wanting to be all u can be. This too will pass and we will realize that RICH knows that he blew his only opportunity to be a national champ. His Legacy will be: 2006-USF-Loss 2007-USF-Loss 2007-PITT -Loss Not the spread offense... The NCAA should change rules regarding leaving these young men who devoted their hearts and bodies to making a coach look good. It's not fair to them or the school. They have to feel the let-down, and could hamper their performance. Winner gets more MONEY!!!!
Posted by: Suzanne on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:49 PM
My children are all graduates of WVU. I've had kids there since 1999. I can't tell you of the moments we've spent singing "Almost Heaven, West Virginia". I thought Rich was the real deal. A graduate of WVU, a West Virginia native, a former player, and now THE COACH. You have let our state down. The pride I felt in doing the Gold Rush has been diminished because of the way you have behaved. You just don't understand how you have let us down as West Virginians. If you turn your back on us, who can we count on? I hope the monetary gain and prestige make you sleep better at night. Michigan will never love you like you have been here.
Posted by: ron on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:49 PM
he will do good at michigan but if loses to ohio 2yrs hell be looking for a job
Posted by: Kevin on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:46 PM
Sad day for the kids of WVU fooball. a native who could have done great things turns his back on the state for $. he had a diamond in the rough w/ WVU football but the almighty dollar clouded his judgement. God bless the team and beat Oklahoma on 1/2/08 and send Rich off regreting his decision. Bring on Nick Saban governor he may want to be a true West Virginian and not turn his back on us like Rich did. who knows.
Posted by: larry on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:42 PM
well at least he stayed blue and gold geez i say so long beep beep beep beep
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:42 PM
I don't care who our new coach is we will still blow out Marshall High School
Posted by: Bill on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:37 PM
See how long he last when he loses to Ohio State two straight. I hope WVu never rehires him. Traitor.
Posted by: todd on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:34 PM
now we don't have to worry about him throwing the bowl game, like the pitt game,
Posted by: Bill on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:34 PM
let him go and lose to Ohio two straight then see where he ends up. H
Posted by: Chris on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:30 PM
As a WVU fan, i feel he had let his team and his state down. I hope michigan gets beat by ohio state every year that he is the head coach there. Rodriguez is a SELLOUT!!! Go Mountaineers!!!!!!
Posted by: Dewey on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:27 PM
Coach Rodriguez! I will match whatever Michigan gives you if you take Coach Snyder with you. Ohio State would love to have him as Michigan's defensive coach!
Posted by: GO ON RICH on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:27 PM
We have a saying here in WV Rich, "the road that brought you in will take you right back out" NOW make it happen. C-ya..
Posted by: jb on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:26 PM
Rich Rod was not a "TRUE MOUNTAINEER" sayin he loved this state yeah right, I hope Ohio State beats you like a drum yr in yr out , GO OHIO STATE , Time to get Coach Terry Bowden a man that wants to be at WVU
Posted by: Lee on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:24 PM
I say good-bye and good riddance. No one can blame a person for trying to better themselves but where does the greed stop and the loyalties begin? This coach has showed his true colors for the past two years and they were not blue and gold! The teary eyes he had after the loss to Pitt was nothing more than a mask. And the loss was his fault not the fault of the players. Michigan will find out what kind of man he is...it's just a matter of time. I think the State police should escort him to the state line and dare him to ever come back! He is not a true West Virginian! The only wishes I send with him is many happy losses!
Posted by: Julius on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:22 PM
When I heard that Rich Rodriquez was talking to Michigan the first thing that came to mind was surely he would not do this before the Bowl Game. Was it another effort to extract more money from WVU? It seems that when it comes to coaching in the big time, there is no such thing as loyality. I really thought that he had more character than this. I could understand if he was from somewhere else and his wife hated Morgantown. To play here and to come back to coach and almost get to play for the National Championship must have been an amazing thing. Unfortunately he got outcoached in the Pitt game. So what does he do...he quits and expects to get to coach in the bowl game. I guess it is possible that he received too much flack for losing the game. I say let him go and let one of the other coaches run the game. Do big time coaches have no loyalty to anything other than money?
Posted by: Mitz on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:21 PM
Lets all wish Rod the best and hope another team like App State beats them next year. haha
Posted by: John on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:18 PM
OSU's Tressel and The Buckeyes will beat him too. So much for saying he would retire at WVU! Totally unfair to this team leaving before the Fiesta Bowl!
Posted by: Anonymous WVU fan on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:16 PM
I agree with you Bernard. I don't think he really cared if win won the Pitt game or not. His was never in that game. So go Rich go WVU will live and win without you.
Posted by: pat on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:16 PM
well if you thought coach rod had any loyality you were proved wrong today. he don't care about the school the people or the community..... i hope his team in michigan tanks and he is only person responsable. michigan will get stuck with the looser,,,,he won't have the hometown behind him it won't be the same., take your family and move to a state where crime is the highest and give up the quaility of life you will never find in michigan,,, what a dumm move, showing your lack of class here, and it shows,,,,,,,,,,,
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:14 PM
WHY DOES THE GOV NEED TO SAY ANTHYING KIDS GO WITHOUT FOOD TO EAT IN WV AND HE IS WORRY ABOUT FOOTBALL GIVE ME A BREAK
Posted by: Lisa on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:12 PM
GO ON, Git 'er Done Rich. WVU will be fine. Its clear he NEVER cared about his team at all, or he would have waited until the bowl game was over.. GET ON OUT OF HERE RICH, WE DONT WANT YOU ANYWAYS!!!!!
Posted by: Vinnie on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:07 PM
It doesnt matter about the bowl game. WVU will not beat Oklahoma not a chance.
Posted by: chris on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:04 PM
Rich, you played a big part in turning this team around and making them into a national contender. And now you let all of the Mountaineer fans down. I hope WVU whips the snot out of Okla. in the Fiesta Bowl so you can see the mistake you made by leaving such a talented team.
Posted by: Dave on Dec 16, 2007 at 06:00 PM
You can't blame him. He is finally going to coach in the "BIG" time!
Posted by: TIM A on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:50 PM
As an Alumni, I do not want him to coach or be present at the Fiesta Bowl!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:48 PM
Who is going to Coach the Team in the Bowl Game. I think he is doing what he needs to do but he also did it the wrong way. I would you leave your team before a Bowl Game. He will do the same thing at Michigan. This should tell Michigan the same thing. It is like when you hire someone that is working at another job. Do you plan to give a two week notice? No,Well I would not hire someone like this because they will do the same. HE can not be trusted. One last thing. GO BUCKEYES. Sorry I was a WVU fan along time ago and I changed to OSU a better school .......
Posted by: Bobby on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:45 PM
Money, money, money thats all people care about. In exactly five years and five days your money wont be worth anything. 12-21-2012 the end
Posted by: Jill on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:43 PM
I remember when Coach Rod was at Glenville State College as my brother's gym teacher. Everyone should have the opportunity to better themselves, but handle it with dignity and character. When you make a committment something, I was always taught you follow through. And isn't that what he expected of his players. Instead he is leaving them before one of WVU's biggest bowl games. That is sickening and definitely without character. Enjoy Michigan - Coach - as West Virginians stick behind each other at least long enough to finish the job!!!!!!!! (or end of the season in this case)!!!!!!
Posted by: jimmie on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:38 PM
i am glad he is gone you people see how loyal he is to the university i just hope that the big wigs at wvu have got the guts to hold him or michigan to the 4 million buyout.
Posted by: Andy on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:37 PM
I don't know which is worse. Petrino leaving the falcons, or Rich Rod doing this to his team 2 years in a row. Cowards
Posted by: bernard on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:36 PM
Thank THANK GOD AND GREYHOUND HE IS GONE HIS MIND WAS ON THE JOB WHEN HE COACHED THE WVU/PITT GAME
Posted by: darryl on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:36 PM
i thinkit is great that he is going to michigan because its like who cares about wvu ,people here only like him cause hes good , wvu doesnt deserve a good coach , he should go to a good school like michigan , im a michigan fan so yeah all you wvu fans can go home , WVU SUCKS !!! GO BLUE !!!!!!
Posted by: Drew on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:28 PM
He did what was best for "HIM".. exactly. These coaches don't care for anything but the Green laid infront of them. Hometown KID not even coaching his boys in the game. Get outta here. He won't have the success at Michigan. He be in an out hoping to come back home. Lets Go Herd and OSU.
Posted by: Brooke on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:27 PM
I knew he was gonna leave, but even though I am not a WVU fan, he should have waited until after the bowl game. Poor choice Rodriquez! Go THUNDERING HERD!!
Posted by: Angela on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:26 PM
Everyone whose saying that WV didnt deserve Rod, and saying nothing good comes from WVU...needs to get off their high horse and realize you are no better of a human than we are. The right thing to do, would to have waited till after the bowl game and go out with some dignity and respect for his home team, and to not leave them in the last battle on the field.
Posted by: J on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:16 PM
CYA LATER I would have never thought I would now be the biggest buckeye supporter...it's going to be interesting if you bring UM to national title to face terry true wvu bowden to beat your butt!!!
Posted by: Bernice on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:02 PM
I was born and raised in WV, and I've lived here all my life. I can honestly say I've never been a WVU fan for one simple reason: the team chokes in games when everything is on the line. With the exception of last year's Sugar Bowl, what major bowl game has WVU ever won? True, WVU has won the Big East several times, but that's only happened since Miami left the conference. If it weren't for the BCS tie-ins, what major bowl would take WVU? I can't blame Rich Rodriguez for leaving, but at the same time, I think he's worse than Nick Saban, or as I call him, Rich Satan. Not only did Rodriguez pull this leaving stunt twice, he did it in consecutive years, after getting a new contract or extension last year and crowing to everyone who would listen that he'd be at WVU for years to come. I sincerely hope Rodriguez is chased off the campus and barred from coaching the bowl game. He is an embarrassment to WVU and to the game in general. I say, bring back Don Nehlen for just the bowl game!
Posted by: Hammer on Dec 16, 2007 at 05:01 PM
Everyone talks about these kids leaving school early for money and the coaches are just as bad.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:59 PM
I can't believe he announced it before the bowl game. He could have waited.
Posted by: John on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:58 PM
So what does United Bank do with all those Rodriguez commercials? I hope they didn't have any new ones ready to go for the bowl season. Bet they think twice before asking another coach. Way to support your community Rodriguez. Home town kid, don't look back in the mirror when you drive across the Ohio River. Let's Go ???? who ever plays Michigan. I might even support Ohio St. now.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:57 PM
Carr is finishing his bowl game why not Rod? I enjoyed him as a coach but he should have finished out. He is bad as Petrino leaving the Falcons.
Posted by: Redskin on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:55 PM
Coaches leaving early should have to repay the remaining salary thru the end of the contract for a buyout and anyone leaving early{coaches or players shouldn't be a part of ANYTHING to do with the bowl games!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Howard on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:53 PM
In a profession that has had many less than honorable individuals, Coach Rod has to be this least honorable of the bunch. All of the work done last year by the University and Alumni to keep him here and he thumbs his nose at us. Although this hurts the fans a great deal, i truly feel sorry for the young men that have palyed for him this year, and gave so much. I know they lost a tough last game, but it surely was not a great coaching job either-has anyone ever been outcoached by Wanstadt?? Our hearts and prayers are with the players, and the only sadness I feel with Rod is that we kept him one more year. GO MOUNTAINEERS
Posted by: Dusty on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:50 PM
Ok you bunch of WVA Coach Rod cry babies , you got what you want after the Pgh game and you & your crying of how bad the coach was. Now he is gone so get ready to start complaining and crying about whoever the next WVA coach will be and how terrible he coaches. You crybabies remind me of the Ky Basketball Tubby Smith and how he coached, he left Ky and look at this yrs schedule yr and how many loses Ky has verus their wins so far this yr.Wonder how many tears the crybabies in Ky will cry this yr, and you bunch of crybabies in WVA will cry next yr because Coach Rod lost a game to Pgh leaving for Mich after you fans cried, sobbed, now wishing Coach Rod was back....(snif snif snif WVA football fans you bunch of cry babies)
Posted by: B on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:50 PM
Thanks Rich Rod for bringing WVU to the next level, but no BCS bowl for you. All those coaching clinics might bite you back at Michigan. Don't fret Mountaineers. Let the proverbial couch burn for the Fiesta Bowl. WVU will roll over the Sooners. Next season will be great when Pat, Steve,Noel and the super defense return to the field. GO MOUNTAINEERS, GO HERD, AND GO WEST VIRGINIA.
Posted by: Susan on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:49 PM
There's more to life COACH ROD than money; try loyalty, family, and friends. This move is about greed and ego. Its sad that your players and WVU fans have to suffer. We WILL get over it move on and be successful; I doubt that we will be able to say the same for you!
Posted by: anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:44 PM
I agree with greg you winny wvu fans do not deserve him. So hahahaha
Posted by: Melissa on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:38 PM
I love all these mad comments, funny thing a few weeks ago before the big loss WVU had the same people were singing his praises! Any one of you would leave and go to another school for better money. Go luck to you rick and WVU fans stop the crying already. PS. This is not froma Marshall fan so don't jump on that bandwagon.
Posted by: Heather on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:35 PM
To Peggy: Why wait until after a bowl game to let the fans/team know? That's like waiting until after Christmas to break up with your Girlfriend/boyfriend just so you can get a Christmas present. It's better to be up front about everything than to hide it until the "right" time
Posted by: Derek on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:34 PM
Rich Rod is a traitor and to lie to his homestate the way he did, he doesnt deserve to wear the gold and blue not even michigans colors ... go eers... i think a dream would come true for me if Bill Cowher would make a shocker and fill in for rich rod and finally get us to the championship just like he done in steeler country! Go Wvu and of course steelers
Posted by: GoHerd on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:30 PM
WVU fans deserve every bit of it. Hurts, don't it? Hahahahahaha
Posted by: Zack on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:26 PM
The most loyal fans in the universe reside in the great state of West Virginia. Rich will soon find out that this loyality on comes at the hand of WIN's in the BIG 10. It will be interesting to see how he can coach against the ILLINOIS spread offense next year. My guess...He will once again be embarrassed by a more knowledgable coach. In the search for the next head coach, I would ask that loyalty be at the top of the selection criteria. Although I never totally agreed with Don Nehlen's style, he remained true to the WV fans!
Posted by: Kurtis on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:23 PM
College coaches these days are like prostitutes, whatever it takes for the most money. Good luck Rich, you're going from one loser school to another.
Posted by: Mickey on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:20 PM
Just another money chasing all about me loser........Go Ohio State !!!
Posted by: jeff on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:17 PM
I hope he does not coach the bowl game....Go HERD!!!!!!!
Posted by: Roger on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:14 PM
SEE Ya!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: peggy on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:11 PM
what class! you should have waited till bowl game was over!!!
Posted by: Mikey on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:07 PM
I can see the couch fires from three states away!
Posted by: Greg on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:07 PM
WVU doesn't deserve a coach as good as Rich was. Afterall, how long did the keep Nehlen for? He had the "best" strategy... Run it up the middle 3 times and then punt. I wish Rodriguez all the success in the world at Michigan. He has big shoes to fill but, he will do a wonderful job!
Posted by: Jay on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:07 PM
Go Rich, you did what was best for you. Michigan will find out just like Clemson that you will (would) be good for the school. Face it, WVU plays a weak schedule, and nothing compared to the ACC, SEC, Big 10. Wish you the best.
Posted by: Brian T. on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:06 PM
Coach Rod is jumping ship @WVU just like White and Slaton. He knows WVU will suck next season without them and a few other seniors! With that said "I Dont blame you coach Rod!" Good Luck!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:02 PM
don't let it hit you on the way out
Posted by: Erik on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:00 PM
Well, I suppose I feel comfortable wishing him the best of luck at losing the big game each season when he gets there. I don't particularly see the current Big(Slow) Ten as a step up from the Big East, but when they run him out for continually losing THE big game (OSU), I don't think he'll be welcomed back.
Posted by: EC on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:00 PM
Go Rich, moving up, you just did what anyone would do. When WV post a job, I hope all the experts below will apply. It is sad, they are not already coaching somewhere. But again, they are and have been just bench warmers. Go Rich, wish you the best. Besides, Clemson will take you any day.
Posted by: T.J on Dec 16, 2007 at 04:00 PM
And you wonder why student atheletes have a hard time committing to a school, and why they only want to stay that 1-2 yrs and get to the pros. Coaches these days are not loyal at all, and at the end of the day they dont care nothing about these kids if you want to be really honest about it. The right price will make anybody make a move, so you gotta always be about you and your business when choosing where to go to school. Think about getting a good education or your best chance of getting to the pros. Be loyal to yourself first student athlete because the coach really dont care about you.....
Posted by: Jennifer on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:51 PM
There's gonna be a lot burning in Morgantown tonight!
Posted by: jp on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:48 PM
Lloyd Carr needs to get with Rich and tell him that if he does not beat Ohio State then he can give him to shortest route out of Ann Arbor to avoid the traffic. See Ya later Traitor!!
Posted by: jp on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:44 PM
Rich and Bobby Petrino needs to get together and talk about committment. Neither one of them knows what it means!!
Posted by: EDDIE on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:43 PM
The best coaches should be able to show more than a big bank account and a winning record. Is "Success" in this day and time all about the money? The outstanding players that have made us so proud to be WV fans deserve much better. "Rich Rod" -HIT THE HIGHWAY- COUNTRY ROADS WON'T MISS YOU VERY MUCH OR FOR VERY LONG.
Posted by: Rodney on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:37 PM
Great, now the Buckeyes have even more fans... at least when they play Michigan. Money does talk but at least he can coach the bowl game. We really had our hopes up high this year Rich Rod and we were looking forward to next year. Hopefully we can follow suit with the basketball team and get a better coach.
Posted by: Heather on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:37 PM
He will be much better off at Michigan. WVU didn't deserve him anyways. Of course, Michigan isn't much better. Still, anywhere is better than WVU!
Posted by: Ryan on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:36 PM
Rumor has it he's taking Devine and Sanders with him. We don't need him. He got everything he asked for last year, private jet, new facilities and continues to get outcoached against a 4 and 6 team, let him go. I wish WVU would have fired him after the disgraceful loss and bring in a winner, not some quitter.
Posted by: amber on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:35 PM
it is about time that rich rod wised up. i am glad he is leaving west virginia. nothing good hardly ever comes from wvu. go rich rod
Posted by: Melinda on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:35 PM
My friends called me Rich Rod cause I was crazy about him. What a fool I was!! He is a traitor. Money talks huh Rich? What a horrible thing to do to a team, school and state who respected and backed you 100%!! You reep what you sew Ol' Buddy. You will fall on your face! That just goes to show you that he is not a true Mountaineer. To us, morals, family and loyalty mean more than any dollar amount. Good Bye Traitor!!! Don't let the door hit you in the rear! Hey Mountaineers......show him you don't need him. Hold your head up high and beat Oklahoma!!! Your fans are still behind you!!! Your true fans that is!!! We love you!!!
Posted by: robert on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:34 PM
WVU is the big winner here, not Rodriquez and certainly not Michigan. Let's bring on board a good coach and, this time, a good man. Too bad Bobby Huggins can't coach this sport too. WVU came out way ahead on the Belein-Huggins deal, so all is not lost. But I do feel bad for this year's players. Let's hope they have more integrity than their former coach when they take the field in a couple of weeks.
Posted by: Linda on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:31 PM
Good Riddance. Rich has really been nasty about this whole thing. He didn't really have WVU at heart. Go Mountaineers at the Fiesta Bowl and show him you can win without him. One man don't stop the show.
Posted by: Karen on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:29 PM
Go on Rod to the Big Blue and we will still kick your well you know what. Go Bucks!!!
Posted by: Jerry M Mounts on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:28 PM
If Ed Pastilong doesn't tell him to clean out his office Monday and appoint a WVU coach to finish the season, we ought to call for him to step down as well. Get him out of Morgantown NOW and let a WVU coach take over. Have the same guts Bo displayed when Bill Freider accepted the Arizona State basketball job just before the NCAA Tournament and Bo booted him out the door and appointed Steve Fisher to take over. "A Michigan man's goina coach this team, not an Arizona State man" said Bo. Don't let Rodrigues coach our team another practice and don't let him conduct another team meeting. Be courteous to him, but show him the door.
Posted by: David on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:26 PM
Money Talks, Bull **** Walks. You loose to Ohio State like you did to Pitt and your history Rod. Were you out recruting for WVU or Michigan?
Posted by: jackson on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:24 PM
Money talks...and it has spoken loud and clear...."Good bye WV"
Posted by: EERS on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:23 PM
he's WORTHLESS
Posted by: Brenda on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:14 PM
I'm just glad he's leaving before sept.at least we can get 4mil. back for his buy out. Goodbye Rich, need help packing? Some people think they are so important let's see how he does at Michigan. I don't think he can beat Ohio State, he's not that good of a coach. Everybody forgets the team is the one who wins the games not one person.
Posted by: Joe on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:13 PM
Doesn't Michigan know that he chokes in the big games? Michigan is twice the school that WVU is and they face twice the competition...talk about a bad decision on their part.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:13 PM
WVU should not let him coach the up comming game
Posted by: Mark S. on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:12 PM
I remember when he pulled this stuff last year by talking to Alabama before the bowl game...so I thought this was just another one of his lame attempts to rally his troops. Well I see I am mistaken, but honestly I'm not disappointed. WVU will be better without him, and the Buckeyes will still own the Wolverines for the next decade. See ya Rich-Rod.
Posted by: Marcus on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:10 PM
Like Brian says he dont deserve to go to the bowl. Hes was doing what his relatives wanted him to do, use the University and then leave. GET IT AND HIT IT!
Posted by: Bobby P. on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:10 PM
It's a shame that he's selling out...I say let him go, he's never been able to 'finish' like a winner. He is a good coach, but when the stakes get high, he falls apart like roast beef. They won't like him in Ann Arbor.
Posted by: Grover on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:08 PM
Congrats Rodriguez..perhaps now the program will be back to winning with your guidance...We have been Michigan fans for years and this year was very disappointing for us..Perhaps we can get back in a winning track...The talent is there..we just need the coaching...GO BLUE!!!
Posted by: rob on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:08 PM
good he has done nonthing but lie to his fellow mountaineer's his heart wasn't in the last game with pitt cause he knew he was leaving then go i hope when u have a loosing season i will be back on here to say i told u so u aint as good as u think maybe for our little state u were but wait till u face a people out of your league they will eat u
Posted by: Mike on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:08 PM
What took you so long Richie... You ain't gone yet !!
Posted by: Don N. on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:08 PM
I have to agree with the rest and say that it's not a big loss. give him a cardboard box, let him pack his things, and move on. We're through with you anyhow, it was his poor coaching decisions that are keeping us out of the BCS Championiship Game. Good Riddance!
Posted by: Amber on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:06 PM
Coach Rod has lost all credibilty. How is he going to stand up and state that you are our coach and then turn around and leave. It says a great deal about his true character.
Posted by: Jeff on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:05 PM
After all WVU has done for him with a big contract and new facilities, what a disappointment. Hope he packed and already to go, I don't have much respect for him now. WVU should consider tkaing that 4 million buy-out and put it toward reducing the the price of a football ticket, no big contract to pay out now. See Rod....Go Ohio St. I can't believe I said that. I hate Ohio St. Maybe throw that support to Joe Paw.
Posted by: Jennifer on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:04 PM
Go eers! i hope you win without him and throw it in his face!
Posted by: A.Jones on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:01 PM
This show that he is commited to the West Virginia program and does not respect them as well, especially his football players. What kind of confidence are they going to have now going in to the last game of this season in Arizona when they know the one person they are supposed to have support them is in fact leaving them. That show insecurity to them. I understand Michigan needed to get someone and couldnt wait around until after WV's bowl game but they could have kept this meeting and most of all the decision involved quiet until after the last game before throwing it on them that they are losing someone they thought was 100% commited to WV and most of all the players. I agree with Brian...if he is making the decision to leave now, then he needs to leave now...not when we is ready. He doesnt deserve to stay with West Virginia the rest of today as far as I am concerned, let alone for another ball game.
Posted by: dave on Dec 16, 2007 at 03:01 PM
I hope he knows he can never come back to his alma mater, or his home state again. I just hope he doesn't take any of his new recruits with him.
Posted by: Cleve on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:57 PM
If he needs help packing his bags, let me know.
Posted by: Ronnie on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:52 PM
maybe now the Eers can win an important game.....send him out now
Posted by: chris on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:52 PM
this is horrible to abandon your homestate and team.. this is gonna truly ruin our chances at a national championship next year... dont let him coach in the bowl game either id rather not win than let that sorry man coach... i am devastated in his choice to leave... i thought he was doing this just to get more money like he did last year with alabama.... i hope michiagan loses every game and they fire him.. and wvu wins the national championship... he was a great coach but he choked in too many big games at his time with wvu but still a good coach... C YA RICH... GIVE HIM A POLICE ESCORT AND GET HIM OUT OF MORGANTOWN!!!!
Posted by: Scott on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:48 PM
Bring home Touchdown Terry!!!! Hey, at least he can now choke against Ohio State and Penn State! Have fun getting out of Cheat Lake!
Posted by: Duane on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:47 PM
No respect! He has hit bottom after Pitt. WVU needs to ensure the $4 million buy-out clause is paid by Rich/MU. Come on home Terry!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:47 PM
No surprise here.
Posted by: Terri on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:46 PM
TRAITOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Shawn Newell on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:45 PM
What do you know. Once agian he shows his true colors. It just shows that it's all about the money. He has a GREAT thing in Morgantown and he just walks away. We should have know after last year it was a matter of time. Thanks Coach Rob for leaving us high and dry. Merry Christmas to WV! Now get out!
Posted by: dave on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:44 PM
Terry call home. Poor Rod, i feel sorry for him..should have talked to Mundy...why didn't he stay there??
Posted by: kevin on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:43 PM
I always knew that this character was a traitor, I had very good friends that played under his reign at Glenville State. They always complained how he was an arrogant individual. This is sad for all of the WVU fans that have supported him in the past. Just goes to show his heart is not in his home state.
Posted by: Steve on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:40 PM
Good Ridance. Come home Jimbo Fisher or Terry Bowden.
Posted by: Heather on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:40 PM
Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Goodbye!
Posted by: Brian on Dec 16, 2007 at 02:38 PM
Put his office inna U Haul and change the locks TONIGHT.......He doesnt deserve to go with the team to the bowl game
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    President Barack Obama, with first lady Michelle Obama, will take a weeklong trip to Russia, Italy and Ghana beginning Sunday night. President Obama is onto his next foreign mission: rebuilding relations with Russia, proving to the G-8 that the U.S. is serious about climate change, and outlining his vision for Africa.
  • Russia to U.S.: Compromise on missile defense

    Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev speaks at the presidential residence Barvikha outside Moscow on Sunday.Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said in an interview published Sunday that the U.S. must compromise on plans for a European missile defense shield to get a deal on cutting nuclear warheads.
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