Because of My Love for John Wooden, I Lose Money

The following piece was written by former guest writer Travis Cearley.  Enjoy:

Because of My Love for John Wooden, I Lose Money

By Coach Cearley

Admittedly, I know next to nothing about the PAC-12.  And, admittedly, I probably won’t ever spend hours researching their CFB history because the teams there have never really held my interest in any way.  However, as a high school basketball coach, I have always held an affection for all things involving the UCLA Bruins.  They Call Me Coach, in my opinion, is a premier spiritual and philosophical text and should be counted among pieces like Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters and Chopra’s The Book of Secrets.  Over the last year I have had the pleasure of making multiple visits to the UCLA campus.  My sister currently works at the David Geffen School of Medicine, and she has taken me on tours of Westwood, including a spiritual venture into an empty Nell and John Wooden Court where the presence of something greater than yourself is unavoidable… Now my point:

The former 1984 Rose Bowl MVP is not bringing honor to his Alma-Mater.  With the loss to Arizona (which was rightfully listed as among the worst 10 teams in the nation by this blog), Neuheisel’s UCLA record drops to 18-26.  I understand that the Bruins are not a football powerhouse, but when you coach for the school that is the home of the Prophet John Wooden, you have certain responsibilities…here are three from Wooden himself:

1.      Have Enthusiasm.  I have only seen two UCLA games this year (both losses); however, I cannot recall seeing Neuheisel excited for any reason over the last three years.  And it seems as though he has given up emotionally on his team.  Since he came to UCLA, Neuheisel would make a post-game tradition of speaking to the UCLA fans after a game…win or lose…however, he ceased doing so this season.  Why?  Because he continues to lose?  Big deal.  Losing is no excuse to become emotionally aloof.  As a coach, your job is ALWAYS on the line (please refer to an earlier post regarding Coach Richt).  I have a hard time believing he just came to that realization after the Texas loss this season. 

2.      Prepare.  Nick Foles is going to pass the ball.  He is going to pass it to the wide side of the field.  The deep ball is definitely a threat; but, to allow him (or his receivers) to make a living on crossing routes, screens, and slants is just inexcusable.  Where is the pressure; where are the stunts;  and, why can’t the linebackers tackle slot receivers?  As a head coach, you are responsible for making sure your defensive coordinator is prepared.

3.      Recognize.  Number 21 (I don’t know his name) was targeted and chumped all night.  Twice he was burnt for a touchdown on the same play, and he played the entire game… in a blow-out.  If it is a close game, and he is your number one corner and the opposition scores twice on him, fine.  But in a whoopin’, send a message.  Sit his tired butt down.  Surely there is a walk-on or a freshman or a 12^th man spiritual captain that would love to get his knuckles bloody.  As a coach it is paramount that you send the message “Win or lose, we play hard.”

I want to be clear.  I am not suggesting that Neuheisel loses his job.  I have repeatedly denounced “hot seat” talk.  I just want Coach Neuheisel to carry the torch.  UCLA is the only PAC-12 team I root for or even give a crap about.  **And to my detriment, I continually pick them to be victorious.  The Ducks are too flashy (and it often feels unwarranted); The Trojans remind me too much of Ohio State; The Cardinal gave up their most interesting character to the 49ers; The Cougars are abysmal; The Buffs will always belong in the Big 8; and, The Bears, well, I mean, they’re from Berkeley.  I understand Coach Wooden passed a year-and-a-half ago, but as a fan, I want to believe that everything shrouded in the blue and gold is a direct reflection of Wooden’s spirit. Please, Mr. Neuheisel, go to Pauley and meditate; it will do your soul some good.

**Playing in a weekly CFB pool has prompted many discussions about the dangers of picking with your heart…Why can I not separate myself from this?  I will take any advice, sympathy, or criticism.