December 29, 2007
DeWayne Walker Looking To Stay
Just as we said, DeWayne Walker is apparently looking to stay on as defensive coordinator, according to Brian Dohn, rather than take that no-win situation in Washington:
I spoke with UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker a few minutes ago, and he was disappointed about not getting the job but thrilled about the chance UCLA gave him. He also said he is very fond of what he has helped build at UCLA, and is eager to speak with Rick Neuheisel about how he may fit into the equation. From talking to him, I got the feel there is a good chance he will remain at UCLA. I will have more later.
We have been strongly against hiring Walker as head coach, for obvious reasons. If our new head football coach Rick Neuheisel makes the decision on his own to retain Walker and/or any of his staff we hope Walker decides to stay. The power play Walker made to get the job was disturbing to us, but as we pointed out his bluff did not work. His power has diminished and Rick's has obviously strengthened. It's up to Rick to determine what works for his program. We support Rick and would support Walker as DC if he is retained. On this great day that is all we will say about that.
4 Comments on DeWayne Walker Looking To Stay
December 29, 2007
Greg from FV @ 6:21 pm:
Based upon what I’ve read, Neuheisel wants Walker to stay, and has said as such to Guerrero.
Louis @ 9:56 pm:
The first thing I hope coach Neuheisel does is get rid of Norvell as the OC. What a joke. Half the time he looked confused like he didn’t belong out there. Guerrero, let Rick hire his own people. The west coast offense is dead! Hooray!
buycker @ 10:06 pm:
Greg - it’s the PC thing for Rick to say at this point.
Let Walker go to Washington. He’d be a better fit with another stoic coach, TW.
December 30, 2007
Arnold Lester @ 10:54 pm:
Many people, especially the local press, made a bit too much about the length of time it took Guerreludro to reach a conclusion that seemed right to many. The fact is, of course, that Walker couldn’t be interviewed until after the LV Bowl game, namely on Wednesday. Two days later Dan and Rick concluded the hiring formalities and it was announced on Saturday. Neuheisel seemed like the right choice, and might have been the choice when he had just completed his first year at Colorado and really couldn’t leave. It’s good to have a situation where most Bruin supporters, including this one (Class of ‘63) are pleased with the ultimate result. There ought to be quite a quarterback evaluation when spring practice comes—a lot of reason for visiting Spaulding Field. I’m looking forward to the Rose Bowl openers against Fresno State and Tennesee.