Let me start by saying I don't think it would be prudent to throw Ed under the bus because I do think he is good for USD. I will get into that later. I also do understand everyones frustrations regarding the 2 losses this season in games we held big leads, and I am one of them.
There are alot of things to consider before you even put up a poll that is valid. In order to vote I think everyone needs to know all the facts. The 2 losses to Poly and ND is just part of the equation. And when I rebut this argument with CoyoteFan, understand I am not taking the personal differences we may have into consideration. My point in this post before it gets out of hand is to make sure everyone understands ALL the rules before you cast a vote to keep or discard.
If I were the AD, I would first get the pulse of those close to the program. Literally go behind closed doors and ask them to spill it. It is critically important that you don't lose the base of funding that is in place right now.
Next I would ask other football minds that are familiar with FCS football to rate the talent that USD has in uniform. It is critical to know if we indeed are recruiting the quality of athletes we need to compete at this level. I don't think AD Sayler is necessarilly a football guy, but rather pretty well diversified. Then knowing that about myself, I would ask for candid evaluations regarding our talent level.
Once I knew the above 2 items, I would have a heart to heart with Coach Meierkort and ask him to give a candid self analysis. At this point you will know if he is BSing you or not, because you will know whether his supporters are at risk if he is shown the door or not, and you will have a good feeling as to whether or not you have the talent in place year after year to compete. If Coach Meierkort confidentially awknowledges that his staff is young and not prepared, I would then ask if he is willing to make the necessary change. If he admits that he is responsible for the late season losses, then I would ask for a written self analysis of what he would be willing to do to remedy the situation.
Then there is something in place that is out of control to all of those involved. And that is the BOR policy of everyone getting one year contracts. Many of you have "poo pooed" this notion, but I am telling you it makes people nervous. Because of this policy, I have to disagree vehemently with CoyoteFan that this is a desireable job. This has to be changed, not only for USD but the beloved Jacks as well. Without this one change, it will be nearly impossible to recruit an up and coming coach...head or assistant.
Now all of that being said, after reading my own post, where do I fall in this?
1.) I believe that Coach Meierkort has a solid base of donors that like him alot. He is not only good with them, but I think he is great. He'll sit and drink a beer, make jokes, and talk about Coyote football. Do NOT underestimate the value of this.
2.) Although I don't know for sure, I think the talent level is there. We have had a number of top drawer athletes play here the past 7-8 years.
3.) The self analysis is tough. And also needs to be private.
The bottom line is I trust David Sayler to do what is right. He is sports wise, and most importantly, he cares.
I will say this out front and not hide behind the poll where no one knows who voted for what. I would vote that Coach Meierkort stays as USD's head coach. He may have to concede some assistant coaches despite his personal take on it, but that would be his call. Ed Meierkort is good for USD and good for USD football. That is my non-expert opinion. Do i wish he would consider some changes? Of course I do. But I vote that Ed stays.