Oregon reportedly requests interview with Cal coach Justin Wilcox
The coaching dance begins yet again.
The Oregon Ducks had their eyes set high on their coaching search. Names like Dave Aranda, Lane Kiffin, Chris Petersen, Chip Kelly all appeared to be entertained after the sudden departure of Mario Cristobal.
But it seems as if the son of Oregon is going to be also thrown into the ring. John Canzano of the Oregonian reports that the Ducks wish to interview Cal head coach Justin Wilcox.
Everyone knows the story by now. Wilcox played college ball at Oregon, his dad played college ball at Oregon (and is in the Pro Football and Oregon Hall of Fame), his brother played college ball at Oregon . He was approached about the opening for the Oregon job in 2017 when Willie Taggart left town, but opted to stay at Cal.
Obviously, four years have passed, Wilcox’s situation at Cal isn’t quite as secure, his tenure has been marred by frustration, and Oregon has been burned twice by coaches who left for their alma maters in Florida. The mutual appeal is apparent. The Ducks want someone who won’t leave. Wilcox could want to coach in a place with unlimited support.
It does appear that Oregon is looking at a few other candidates, including one NFL candidate.
Canzano also reports Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin is out of contention.
Things are heating up. Should be a fun next few weeks.
Wilcox and Musgrave (Wisconsin style offense) pro style offense would be a square peg in a round hole at Oregon both in terms of player personnel and offensive identity.
Winning 8-9 games at Oregon won't cut it. 8-9 wins at Cal gets you an extension, 8-9 wins at Oregon will get you fired.
At any rate, hopefully Knowlton has Troy Taylor’s cell number, we may need to call him.
If Wilcox does go, it will probably weaken Oregon so at least a division rival will come back down closer to Cal.