The Washington Post is reporting that the Vanderbilt Commodores will be naming Maryland offensive coordinator, James Franklin, as their head coach—as early as today. Of course, the natural question has to be this: are they sure this time?
Remember it was this same publication that told us Gus Malzahm was on his way to Vanderbilt a mere days ago. Eventually it was discovered that Malzahn was only considering the offer. He later opted to remain in his current post at Auburn for more than double the money he received this past season.
If this story turns out to be accurate, Vanderbilt will finally be able to end their coaching search and get down to the business of rebuilding their football program.
James Franklin was due to receive a $1 million bonus at the end of the 2011 season if he was not offered the head coaching position currently held by Ralph Friedgen. Quite frankly, after the departure of Will Muschamp from Texas and, possibly, now James Franklin at Maryland, we could be seeing the end of that whole 'coach-in-waiting' title.
So, what will the Commodores get in Franklin?
For one, he is a phenomenal recruiter. He has long been thought of as one of the best recruiters in the ACC, and one of the top recruiters on Friedgen's staff. Furthermore, he's proven to be adept at grooming phenomenal NFL prospects—among his handiwork—both Josh Freeman (currently in his 2nd season with the Bucs) and Darrius Heyward-Bey (a Top 10 NFL Draftee) excelled under his tutelage.
Vanderbilt is hungry for a young coach with innovative ideas and the energy level necessary to rebuild their shattered program and if Franklin does, in fact, turn out to be the chosen one, they could do a lot worse.
