As a life long Gamecock fan and a graduate of the university, I am glad he went ahead and announced. No reason to stay and go through the motions. Some of these players have already mailed it in, and more and more would eventually be doing the same especially knowing coach wouldn't be back. It gives us plenty of time to find another coach and make the best hire. I wish he would have retired after Shaw graduated though. Hate to see him go out like this. I am extremely grateful for what Spurrier has done for the state and the university. I am 30 years old and grew up watching terrible football teams. 2010 - 2013 was extremely exciting. He's 70 years old. I think he has earned the right to go out like he wants to. I hope his health is fine, and I hope he enjoys retirement. Thanks coach.
I'm in the same boat as you, although about 7 years older. I've been through it all. I cried as a kid when my favorite SC Coach died suddenly, Joe Morrison. This time around with Spurrier, it was warranted. I was one to call for it even sooner. We missed out on McElwain (reminds me of wanting Gregg Marshall to only keep Horn an extra year, although Martin isn't bad), but now everyone knows an SEC school has an opening with a lot of potential midyear, so let's see who comes a calling...
Kirby Smart- I dropped his name as the next Coach at SC a couple of years ago. I know they are willing to pay to get him, but he's still a gamble, and Idk if he's the answer, but his phone will get a buzz or two in the process...
Mark Dantonio- he automatically gets a ring for being a SC Alumni. He's not interested, and approaching 60, isn't the best hire anyways.
Chip Kelly- wouldn't that be cool, but I don't see it happening, unless he chooses to do so himself. Philly keeps him around a little while longer, but boy couldn't he stir the pot by going to USCWest.
I like an up and coming young buck to take the helm, especially Matt Campbell. I am excited that I think Elliott gets the interim job, as he is one of the select few I would keep around at year's end.
We need a new DC as well. I have a dream list of those too, but I'll save em for another day to keep some newborn excitement for the Gamecocks, finally...