Bobby Bowden Says He Wants To Return in 2010
ESPN’s Mark Schlabach is reporting that Bobby Bowden has shared his desire to return as head coach in 2010. After declining comment about his future after the 37-10 rout to rival Florida on Saturday, Bowden expressed his desire to meet with FSU officials to extend his contract for another year.
After completing his third six loss season in four years, the pressure has been on Bowden to step down and retire with dignity from alumni. According to ESPN’s report, Bowden said he would only return to the sideline next season if he was FSU’s head coach, eliminating the possibility of him returning in an advisory role next season. With Bowden’s statement, the gauntlet has be laid down for a difficult December in Tallahassee as Bowden attempts to wield his legacy for one more year to continue to build on his 388 career wins.
Sitting in the middle of the impending fiasco is Head Coach in Waiting, Jimbo Fisher. Hired in 2007, Fisher signed a contract with Florida State University that provided for a balloon payment of $5 million if not placed into the head coach position by 2011.
Perhaps there is any easy resolution to this quandry around Bowden’s coaching future. Based on USA Today’s database of college football coaching salaries, Bowden earned slightly over $2.3 million for his 2009 campaign. This rates him as the 16th highest paid college football coach and the highest paid Florida state employee. If Bowden’s desire is to leave on his terms and complete unfinished business, then accepting a $1 salary for 2010 seems to make sense. Not only will this cement his legacy as one of the most dedicated coach, he can provide significant help towards Florida’s state budget deficit crisis.
What do you say Bobby? Is it about winning or is it money? We’ll soon find out.
Tags: bobby bowden, college football, florida state, jimbo fisher
