Power conference athletics departments have unrealistic expectations. Backed by wealthy boosters, schools spend millions to fire coaches and millions more to replace them.
The league keeps hiring proven winners: Barnes, Frank Martin (South Carolina), Mike White (Florida), Ben Howland (Mississippi State), Cuonzo Martin (Missouri), Tom Crean (Georgia), Kermit Davis (Ole Miss), Nate Oats (Alabama) . . . there are no more easy marks in the league, no more Kim Andersons in over their heads.
Alabama offers a vivid illustration. Back in 2009, Mark Gottfried collected about $2.2 million from the school after resigning, according to Al.