In today’s Fact or Fiction, I look at three big recent topics in college football and decide whether the statement is indeed FACT or if it’s FICTION.
1. Chris Klieman is still underpaid.
Farrell’s take: FACT
I’d take $5.5 million, of course, most would. But Klieman is 5-3 against top 10 teams at Kansas State, which is a better record than many higher paid coaches. Being at K State limits his earning potential as this isn’t Penn State, Texas, or another blue blood but he’s arguably a better coach than a handful of coaches higher paid. He’s a bargain even with his extension.
2. Billy Napier is a better coach than Mario Cristobal.
Farrell’s take: FICTION
This has become a hot debate after my man Matt Perkins picked Napier based on his in-game coaching ability and success at the Group of Five level. I’ll take Cristobal simply for the reason that he had success in the Pac- 12 at the Power Five level, including a couple of titles. He’s a better recruiter as well. I like both coaches and it is close, but I’d bet Cristobal lasts longer in Miami than Napier at Florida.
3. Hugh Freeze wins 8 games in year one.
Farrell’s take: FICTION
That’s likely the bar set by many boosters at Auburn, who are well known for their impatience, but it’s too high. And before Auburn fans say 6-6 or 7-5 is fine, I’ll agree with you, but I know expectations are higher than that. UMass, Samford, Vandy, Cal, and New Mexico State are all likely wins, but finding three more is hard. Maybe A&M on the road? Maybe Mississippi State at home? Arkansas on the road? Perhaps but all three are unlikely to me. I see a 6-6 season with a strong run game, an average passing attack with Payton Thorne, and a solid defense. But it’s not an easy SEC schedule at all.
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