Despite all rumors to the contrary, Zook to be back in 2010

Well that was one exciting 24 hours wasn't it. From meetings taking place, to meetings not taking place, to several key coaches being fired, and several not, it seems now safe to assume that Zook will be back next year.

With the release of just about the entire offensive coaching staff, and the demotion of the two most influential coaches on the defensive staff, Guenther and Zook are clearly looking for a major shakeup. And they should, aside from all of the disappointment from this season, we have already determined that this year's recruiting class is in terrible shape, and several players that would be very important to next season are looking to transfer.

There are of course other factors that tell us the state of things will not get much better. The fact that Guenther has only promised a year to Zook effectively makes him a lame duck. What assistant would want to come in to a program where he could end up looking for a job just eleven months later? What top flight recruit would want to come to a place where the coaching staff is only certain for one season?  If its bowl or bust for Zook next year, the exodus of talent, by graduation, NFL draft and transfer, and the brutal schedule may make this whole decision moot.

If, as we can now very clearly state, Zook is going to be here next year, and needs to justify his keeping his job with a winning season, it is going to be as difficult a task as he has had since he came to this University.