03 Nov Taggart Era Ends
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The Taggart Era at Florida State has ended in disappointing fashion as Florida State has fired Willie Taggart before the end of his second season. While this happened far earlier than anyone expected, it was hardly surprising after Taggart’s tenure opened 0-5 against FSU’s primary rivals, with the Seminoles not looking competitive in those games. Taggart was handed a very difficult situation, represented FSU with class, and definitely improved the team’s off-field behavior and academic performance. He should be given credit for these improvements, though ultimately was not able to show sufficient on-field improvement near the end of his second year, and the firing was probably the right decision for Florida State.
This episode is a brief postmortem of what happened after the high hopes and excitement of Taggart’s first offseason, a look at some of the mistakes Taggart ultimately made that led to his termination, and a look at who FSU may target to replace him.
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Rod James
Posted at 21:18h, 04 NovemberYou sir have provided great insight into how this unfolded. I wondered over the year what was the disconnect with discipline since Taggart was supposed to be a nonsense guy or was said to be so before being hired. Also I agree with your ideology of coaching pedigree that would be successful. I think also that James Franklin is a good choice but seriously doubt he would leave Penn st at this point. But yeah great information.
K K
Posted at 14:56h, 05 NovemberJason Staples I really hope you have reached out to the AD and the powers that be at FSU and offered your assistance!!!
MRK
Posted at 10:26h, 06 NovemberGood insight, and spot on with your comparison of the traits of an effective football HC to the abilities an effective CEO must possess. As someone who has survived in corporate America and has interacted with CEOs for many years, I reached the same conclusion. But you articulated the test much better than I have We all wish Willie the best, but it was apparent that like many football coaches, he does not have the insight, organizational skills, and charisma to lead a multi-million dollar program. I have to say it would have been valuable to know your conclusions in that regard, and the predictions of your stats-driven consultant, much earlier than 11/3/19! Hindsight usually raises questions of credibility. I would say the same about the TN podcast that just revealed a lot of the behind-the-scenes dysfunction they knew about all along. That can be done without exposing sources. It would have allowed many of us to manage our expectations earlier rather than face month after month of disappointments and crushed hopes. It’s just my opinion, but I think those of you with inside information do owe that much to the audience you seek. In that same vein, would you be willing to share what your consultant believes about our next hire, and what you conclude about that coach, based on your “Butch Davis Test” at the time of this hire? If you want to put it on Patreon, I’m all in.
Jason Staples
Posted at 13:23h, 06 NovemberGreat stuff here. I should point out that I podcasted about my concerns about Taggart (including the analytics consultant’s opinion) back before Taggart was hired. My twitter account from 11/17 has a bunch more as well.
As for the behind-the-scenes stuff, it’s not just about sources getting revealed it’s about the fact that I’m a former player and don’t have interest in letting stuff outside the family if it’s going to hurt the family. I’ll have more thoughts moving forward as the search progresses for sure.
Chris Martinez
Posted at 14:23h, 06 NovemberWhen is your next podcast going to drop?