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Mark Richt to Miami: Does press conference comment make this a real possibility?

By Michael Collins

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Mark Richt is usually mentioned when coaching vacancies come up at major programs, but the possibility of the Georgia Bulldogs head coach taking the Miami job is beginning to get some legs.

In the past, when Mark Richt was questioned about whether or not he had an interest in a coaching vacancy or what he thought about his name being mentioned, his standard response has been in the vein of “I’m happy here at Georgia and this is where I want to be”

So why is this rumored possibility of Richt taking over the Miami Hurricanes any different? Several reasons, none more compelling than the coach’s comments in his press conference on Tuesday.

In standard fashion at the press conference, Richt (who graduated from Miami) was asked what he thought about his name being brought up as a candidate for the job in Miami, recently vacated by the firing of Al Golden after the historic beating the Hurricanes took at the hands of Clemson.

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His response left more than a few people scratching their heads:

"“I love my alma mater, the U, no doubt about it. But there’s been nobody calling or texting or writing or anything like that. So, I’m sure they’ll find a great coach.”"

OK, wait a second coach Richt…is that subtle hint to Miami athletic director Blake James that they should be calling or texting you?

It’s no secret that there is a segment of the Bulldog Nation who feels that Richt has run out of chances at Georgia and that new leadership is needed for the football program. Despite the fact that Richt hasn’t won an SEC title in 10 years and has yet to get a true shot at the national title, he has the full support of athletic director Greg McGarity and all the trustees of the university.

But even with the smattering of discontent, there has never been a tiny bit of doubt inserted into the conversation about whether or not Richt wanted to stay.

Until now.

As someone who has followed Richt his entire career at Georgia, and met and spoken with him and his wife on several occaisions, I can tell you that his answer to the press conference question should be troubling at least, and alarming at worst, to the Georgia fan who wants to see their longtime coach stay on board.

When a coach who has been as steadfast in his answers as Richt has in recent years comes back with something other than en emphatic “No, I’m happy”, then there is something to his answer.

From all indications, there has been no pressure from his superiors to leave his post. The guy was just given a raise and en extension (as were some of his staff members), and also convinced the university to spend $30 million to upgrade the practice facilities. Those aren’t the types of things that point to a coach on his way out.

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Georgia Bulldogs /

Georgia Bulldogs

No, if there’s anything eating at Mark Richt, it’s the constant criticism and undue pressure he’s faced with by the vocal and sometimes unreasonable group of fans who make him out to be the worst coach the Bulldogs have ever had.

Even the happiest and most stable of men have their breaking point…is it possible Richt has reached his?

Despite the odd answer and the growing speculation, I’d say possible…but not plausible.

Other than being a Miami alumni, there really isn’t much there for Richt.

He’s getting a sparkling-new indoor practice facility at Georgia, while Miami has a decrepit gym and practice field which are surpassed by many high schools. He has a passionate (although manic at times) fan base who fills beautiful Sanford Stadium every week during football season. Miami can’t give away tickets to make their antiquated stadium look even halfway filled. He’s coaching in what is arguably the greatest college town in the nation. Miami is barely recognized as more than a nightlife city…not exactly the place for a godly man and his family.

As reported by FanSided.com, Richt himself has spoken since that press conference, and amplified his answer to try and halt the rumor mill.

Perhaps it was a heat of the moment, stir the pot a bit answer from coach Richt, and in earnest he meant nothing other than his typical, “No, I’m happy here.” Georgia is in Jacksonville, Fl. for the annual Cocktail Party with the Gators this weekend, and the outcome of that game will determine a lot about the SEC East and possibly Richt’s future. The postgame presser — win or lose — is sure to be entertaining.

The big question is, has Mark Richt’s phone buzzed with calls or texts since the press conference? Charter flight to Miami watch out of Athens Ben Epps Airport.

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