One day after a signed deal with Greg Schiano was squashed because of a public backlash, Tennessee athletic director John Currie issued a statement Monday, vouching for Schiano's character and defending the head-coach search process.
"I have followed Coach Schiano's accomplishments throughout his career and have been fortunate to get to know him and his family over the last several years,'' Currie said. "As reported by the media, he was a leading candidate for our position. Among the most respected professional and college football coaches, he is widely regarded as an outstanding leader who develops tough, competitive teams and cares deeply about his student-athletes.