This is, uhhh, interesting to say the least.
A short time ago, and amidst reports of an Art Briles interview for the offensive coordinator job, Southern Miss confirmed the meeting but that they informed the disgraced former Baylor head coach that he is no longer a candidate. Not long after, USM head coach Jay Hopson sent out a very strong statement that in one breath said he respected the decision of the university’s administration and in another very publicly disagreed with it.
Below is Hopson’s texted statement, in its entirety and unedited:
Although I respect the decision of Dr. Rodney Bennett, I disagree with it.I am so grateful for the Grace & forgiveness God gives me which allows me to inherit his kingdom, which I do not deserve. I have interviewed Art Briles for an assistant position @ Southern Miss & I believe he is a man who deserves a second chance. He is a man that seemed sincere & humble in his interview & personally he committed no crime. He may not have acted in the proper protocol, but that would be my JOB at Southern Miss! He was interviewing for an assistant position, even though I believe he will be a Head Coach at a Major Program in the near future . However, I believe he is a man who does love the Lord and deserves a second chance. He has been banned from employment in college football for 3yrs and has been punished. I understand both sides have opinions, this is just mine! God bless – Jay Hopson
Just how Hopson’s employer reacts to being very publicly taken to task by one of its high-profile employees over someone like Briles will be very interesting to watch moving forward.