Illinois coach Ron Zook made it clear when he began his press conference today that he didn’t want to talk about rumors of him being on the verge of dismissal. The Illini started the season 6-0, but have dropped their last four and still face a challenging game against Wisconsin this Saturday.
“This thing’s about our football team... it’s not about me, it’s not about my future,” Zook explained. “If you feel compelled to talk about that then my part is going to be over.”
So, naturally, a question about Zook’s job security came up.
“From a football perspective, do you talk to them[your players] about [it] so it doesn’t become a distraction... the rumors about you?” asked Shannon Ryan of the Chicago Tribune.
Hey, at least she tried to put a football team spin on it. Can’t fault her for that. Nevertheless, Zook wasn’t pleased. After a stare that only a disappointed father could replicate, Zook said “You just couldn’t let it go could you, Shannon?” and walked out.
It’s understandable that Zook wouldn’t want to talk about rumors of his job security -- he’s been on the proverbial hot seat for what seems like the last decade -- but he has to know it’s going to get asked and it was a legitimate question at that.
(video credit: fightingillinination.com)