If we split with Capel now, we PROBABLY lose our recruiting class like we did with Sampson, which is shaping up to be a pretty descent class: CAM and TJ are considered by many to be among the best prospects both in the region and nationally, Neal was the POY in the state, and Washington was a 1st JUCO AA.
We still have a few scholarships to give, and I feel pretty good about our chances in picking up some good prospects. In addition to losing guys that are coming in next year, we also will likely lose Richard Peters for the 2011 class and any momentum we may have on other kids that are high on OU for the 2011 class. This is a bigger deal than you think...go back and look at when Clark and Taylor comitted to OU (April and September of last year).
Now, I think that everybody understands that next year is going to probably below .500 BUT you have to take into account the future in the decisions you make now. Capel is absolutely going to be the Coach next season, it may be tough, but by 2012, he has a pretty solid foundation "as is":
Washington JCAA (Sr.)
Pledger**** (Jr.)
Fitz.**** (Jr.)
Cam**** (So.)
TJ**** (So.)
NEAL OPOY (So.)
Peters**** (Fr.)
If you bring in a new guy, it is likely that not ONE of these players will be playing for OU by 2012 except for maybe Neal and Washington. This is the reason why I think that some of the more thoughtful posters are saying that it needs to be NCAA or bust for Capel in 2012. The program has a better chance of retaining these guys if the move is made in 2012 than it does in 2010. JMHO, and another reason (not set out in the article) that you should keep Jeff.
One other thing, I'm not about to make my decision on firing a guy based on some 18 and 19 year olds flaking out. I'll add that I have been extremely disappointed to hear that Crocker was part of the problem in the off-season, as I thought he was a great young man [still do, but dissappointed if what is being reported is true]. Gallon and TMG were guys that flaked, and I think Jeff has learned a lesson.