This week the Hot Seat Meter visits the Big Ten. USC, UCLA, Washington, and Oregon all enter the B1G. Although none of their coaches are on the hot seat, the tradition programs seats, might be heating up.
Ryan Day Room Temperature: Let’s get this one out of the way. Ryan Day is 56-8 as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. His biggest blunder is that he is 2-3 against Michigan. Over the last 3 years there were only three programs better than the Buckeyes, unfortunately, one of them was the Wolverines, which makes fans say dumb things. There is no denying that Ohio State under Ryan Day is one of the best in the country every year. They’ve come close. In 2024, Ohio State will defeat Michigan, and make a run at a National Championship. Cooling off some pressure from rabid idiotic fans.
Bret Bielema Warmish: Bielema probably shouldn’t have a hot seat. However, with the Ilini possibly being the worst team in the conference this year, will be sure to warm the seat. Last year Illinois had a good nucleus returning from an 8-4 squad the year prior. They also had one of the best interior defensive line tandems in the country, but couldn’t become bowl-eligible. I like Bret, I think this is a good fit, but another bad year and Illinois might be looking to start over……..again.
PJ Fleck Warm: I’m not sure if I agree, but there are rumblings around Minneapolis about the future of Fleck with the Gophers. Fleck is 50-34 and before finishing 6-7 last season had back-to-back 9-win years. Minnesota is also 5-0 in bowl games during Fleck’s tenure. However, Fleck is getting pressure from a portion of the fanbase that is looking for more. Pair this with some being tired of his “rah-rah” schtick, and the Twin City media being ruthless in a professional sports town, there is enough pressure for the heat to turn up if the Gophers have another disappointing year.
