November 21, 1996

I'm saddened to hear of Coach Holtz's decision to leave the University of Notre Dame. However, I do feel it is the right time for him to go. The University has spent much money trying to develop a top-notched program and they have given Lou every opportunity to fill the seats, but he just can't seem to get it done this year.

Unfortunately, the "House that Rockne Built" will probably still have about 20 rows of empty seats this week. Maybe his resignation will give people enough of a reason to turn out and fill the thing.

I think that these fellows would be bad choices to fill Lou's shoes:

1. Gary Barnett - Can't sell out little NU's stadium even after they go to the Rose Bowl.
2. Terry Donahue - Couldn't fill the Rose Bowl for UCLA Home Games
3. Jimmy Johnson - Couldn't fill the Orange Bowl for home games and the thought of Catholic vs. Convicts being a inter-squad scrimmage is not appealing.

Now the talk turns to who will replace Lou Holtz as Head Football Coach at ND. I think the following people need to be considered:

1. Johnny Majors - He could fill Neyland stadium so he should be able to fill ND's
2. Bo Schembechler - He put over 100,000 in Ann Arbor every weekend.
3. Any Bowden - People would come just to hear them talk.
4. Bill McCartney - He can get over 100,000 together to drink wine, get drunk and sing songs at those rallies - think of what he could at ND.
5. The Pope - In Brazil, he's put 200,000 in a soccer stadium.

Good Luck to Lou. I hope you enjoy your retirement. I know I have.

See next Beeno post