Hot Tub HOT SEAT!!!

Hello Followers.  Hope you had a great weekend.

As today’s header indicates, today we mark the start of a new bi-weekly feature regarding Pac-12 coaches who are headed toward the hot seat–a location that we affectionately call “The Tub.”

So, if you all want to check out who we think is headed for the hot, hot, hot, hot, HOT tub, then read on.

Mike Riley.  Mind you, Riles should have earned lots, lots, lots, and LOTS of currency with the Beaver Backers over the previous years.  After all, Oregon State finsihed the first decade of the 21st Century ranked third in the Pac in total wins.  However, recent woes threaten Riley’s status among the faithful, even if he has a contract that runs until 2019 (or some such).  One thing is for sure, lose this weekend’s game, and a donut for the season becomes a distinct possibility.  And that doesn’t help, no matter who you are or what you’ve done.  Status:  A bit too cool for the pool.

Dennis Erickson:  After looking like a Giant Killer three quarters into the Mizzou game,  the Sun Devils have since started to look like most Erickson teams three-to-four years after he takes over: They’re talented, they’re undisciplined, and they’re pretty darn mediocre.  Mind you, losing on the road in Champagne hardly constitutes a catastrophe, but the Devils face several HUGE tests over the coming weeks. And here’s to thinking that he needs to be 3-0 over the next three to stay away from THE TUB.  Status:  On man boob alert.

Rick Neuheisel.  With many national pundits picking Rick to rally the troops against a Texas team without a quarterback, his Bruins laid a big egg on Saturday, falling behind 21-0 early and really not looking back.  You know, when you’re nearing the tub, the last thing you need is to show signs of indecisiveness. And unfortunately for Rick, his current quarterback controversy threatens to have him quacking as a lame duck in the next week or two.  In fact, lose to Oregon State this weekend, and we might see an interim coach against WSU.  Status:  Already in the Water.

Mike Stoops.  Not a lot of talk about Mr. Stoops since he took his team to Bowls the past couple of seasons. But, when you look at his overall record, his lack of quality wins, and his current 7 GAME LOSING STREAK AGAINST BCS level competition, you have to wonder if they can’t do better than Ole Yeller.  Unfortunately for Stoops, the schedule doesn’t get any lighter, and his sideline tirades can’t be winning him many friends when his brother is much calmer and infinitely more successful.  Status:  Taking the obligatory pre-Tub Shower.

Paul Wullff.  Just when you thought that he was nearing the free and clear, he comes right back to the edge of those bubbly waters.  Hard to know what was worse–the decision to try to block a punt when ahead (and when his team was moving the ball!!!!!)–or the chastising of his players for not adequately responding to the adversity he and his staff created.  While the loss of Tuel may give Wulff a bit of a pass, yesterday’s loss was akin to strolling along the pool deck.  Status:  Looking for towels.

So, there you have it, the Week 3 Edition of HOT TUB, HOT SEAT.  We’ll be back following week 5 to preview the Wulff v. Neuheisel race for the Tub.

Until then, Go Cougs!

(You can now follow the Coug-A-Sutra on twitter @ www.twitter.com/cougsutra)