RECORD FAILS TO TELL THE STORY by ST

I just read that Rich Brooks is likely retiring from the coaching profession after his Kentucky team fell short in last night's Music City Bowl against Clemson. On SportsTalk I often hear people who question the field at Autzen Stadium being named after a coach with a "losing" record. These folks can't see the forest through the trees and completely miss the big picture & significant contribution this man made. When he took over as Duck boss in 1977, the sport was still 8 seasons away from a move that would allow programs like Oregon, Virginia Tech and Florida State to compete with the big boys at the top. In 1985 the NCAA instituted the 85 scholarship limit meaning Nebraska could no longer have 12 great backs waiting in line. Some of those guys would depart places like Alabama, Southern Cal and other monsters and head for Eugene, Blacksburg & Miami. Brooks took over a program that had not won more than 4 games 5 consecutive years and he won just 2 games his 1st two seasons before carving out a 6 & 5 mark his 3rd year running the show. I think many of you know the way things progressed from there. Oregon would look like a contender in 1988 with a 6 & 1 record before Bill Musgrave got busted up against Arizona State, lost out and didn't make the post season. In 89 they would land in the Independence Bowl. They've missed the post season just 4 times since. With then A.D Bill Byrne and some staunch financial support they decided to make their move, upgraded facilities and look where Oregon football is now! I personally don't feel it's in such great shape without the significant contribution of Rich Brooks. Let's not forget who hired Mike Bellotti as offensive coordinator when Mike's experience was limited to Chico State, Cal State-Hayward, Weber State and other such legendary launching pads. A decade and a half later, Mr. Bellotti would bring in an offensive coordinator from a little known New Hampshire program. All turned out to be pretty sound decisions as the Ducks prepare for the Rose Bowl against Ohio State.