Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2008

Fans on Bowden's resignation

“I am ecstatic. It shows me that the Clemson administration truthfully wants to get back to the upper tier of Division I.

“I was afraid the administration had become satisfied with seven to nine wins, lower-tier bowls, and their comments on achieving greatness were just meant to empty my pockets.”

— Richard Hare

Annapolis, Md.

“Tommy wasn’t the kind of guy who would inspire the others in the foxhole to fight with him — like Danny Ford could.”

— Ray McBride

Columbia

“That’s two down (Tommy Bowden and Rob Spence) and one to go (Brad Scott).”

— T.E. Dukes

Lexington

Some of the comments on Bowden’s resignation posted Monday at thestate.com

“This is bad news for the Gamecocks. With the talent Clemson has, just about anyone (else) can coach this team to a championship.”

“Tommy Bowden has done a great job of recruiting and improving talent at Clemson over his 10 years as the coach. He has owned the Gamecocks. But he has never been a good game day coach and beating South Carolina is just not enough.”

“Midseason firing after a big boost in pay and a major contract extension a year ago? Someone else needs to go as well.”

“I think Clemson should go after Lane Kiffin. Bring that Southern Cal offense to Clemson. I am sure he would know how to use (C.J.) Spiller.”

“I enjoyed watching them bumble and stumble. My worry now is they will actually find a coach that can get the job done.”

“The problem at Clemson is they think they are a major football power that should challenge for national championships every year. They don’t see their limitations.”

“Spurrier should hire Bowden as his recruiting coordinator. He is an average coach but the best recruiter in the nation.”

“Should have let Arkansas have him last year ’cause they were so interested. Here’s major $$$ wasted again. Need to continue firing right on up the line.”

“Dear Tommy,

You will be sorely missed.

Sincerely,

Smugness & Mediocrity “

“I am sick to death of these people throwing mud and snide remarks at the coaches regardless of who it is. College is about education and education only!”

“A coach that throws a senior quarterback under the bus as the reason for the team’s lack of success deserves to be fired.”

“Tommy Bowden with his $4 million buyout will be thumbing his nose at all of us while he lives the good life at the expense of the Clemson alumni. Not a bad deal.”

“Tommy Bowden is and will remain one of the best coaches in Clemson history. Bowl games in eight of the past nine years and a winning record the Gamecocks would die for. He just had a meltdown this season.”