I still think the S&C problems these last few years have been a Head Coach and recruiting problem. You have to recruit kids who want it, and you have to have a HC that raises the stakes for kids who don't push, and disciplines guys who go through the motions. Shannon had favorites who got away with whatever.
Golden replacing Shannon empowered Swasey. You could see how excited he was this Spring about UTough. The between the lines stuff to me was that he was held back. I rethink now he has the ability to raise the stakes for kids who don't push.
Again, its also a recruiting issue. Look at the type of kid Golden describes that he wants. It's not a coincidence. The fact that Golden retained Swasey was somewhat of a final commentary on this great debate. Now, we get to see where S&C goes from here. I'll say this, we're in much better shape than we were last year and I am amazed at how well we held up where you consider we were playing 37 or 38 guys all year.
Agree and disagree.
Agree that problem started up top with both Shannon and Coker. Neither was adept to run a program and as a result, everyone below (coaches and players) suffered.
But disagree to the extent that Swasey had to be awakened into busting *** again. He should have been doing that the entire time. If he got lazy or complacent under Shannon or Coker, then it's on him too.
Lets not forget that Swasey isn't academically qualified for the position as well.
I've mentioned this in other thread. USC's S&C coach has a bachelor's and master's in education. So while it's not optimal, it's not uncommon either.
I've had opportunity to train with some phenomenal trainers, some of whom were credentialed (Ph.D.) and others who weren't, and while techniques and vantage point are different, both effective and phenomenal in their own regard.
In short, it's not necessary, IMO.
I trained for about a year with a former college football player who does not have credentials but is the top trainer in South Florida, and has trained or trains Joe Johnson, Mario Chalmers, Durant, Ibaka, Shockey, Sydney Rice, Orien Harris, Charles Johnson, Marion Barber, Steven Tulloch, and a slew of other top notch athletes and his knowledge or effectiveness isn't limited in any way by the fact that he doesn't have a kinesiology degree.
eh, I hear you and I can use my own experience in this. I was a trainer at Gold's for over 5 years when I was putting myself through school, I still wouldn't say I'd be the first choice of a top CFB program and I got great results as well.
The thing is we have seen Swasey's results, or lack of. He isn't a power guy, and as I've said in other threads he isn't the only issue here. Technique being taught from the position coach is lacking as well. IMO it is a combination of things and they are just not working for this oline. We regressed this year.