This may sound a little harsh but I think some of those who are wanting Capel's head were the same ones who were all in a panic that he was going to be hired away from us last year. I'm sorry but those reactions are what one would expect from junior high girls.
This was a tough year. No one could imagine it being this bad. Injuries, bad chemistry, discipline and lack of depth. Who could have thought that Allen wouldn't improve to give good minutes? Longar did. Sometimes players just don't work out. All of the above is Capel's fault. But a year like this can happen to any coach. Look at Barnes, Donovan and Williams, for instance. There needs to be significant improvement next year with the year finishing with a promise for an even better year following. Joe C will give him another year, probably two and there is not much anyone can do about that. So it would be best for us to support our coach in the meantime.
We can take comfort that Joe C will not let the program drift down to perpetual suckage. He has too much pride for that to happen. But he is a smart, good motivator of people. His first reaction to adversity is to support his guy. He will give Jeff plenty of time to right the ship. If he does not, what quality coach would ever want to come to work for him if he will get fired the first time he stumbles?
Let me be clear. Right now Jeff Capel is the coach of my Sooners and he has my support. I liked him last year. I like him this year. Loyalty only has meaning if it carries you through rough times. Loyalty means nothing if it is all about good times and winning.