Pick the right people to criticize

In the wake of Missouri's disappointing loss to Texas Tech, I hear complaints and criticisms of head coach Gary Pinkel that lack validity and seem to be uttered out of frustration than logic. I have heard numerous friends say that Pinkel should be removed as head coach when nothing could be further from the truth.

Just two weeks ago Pinkel led the Tigers to their biggest home win ever. The win over Oklahoma was monumental. Athletic Director, Mike Alden, says that the victory over the Sooner will bring millions of dollars into the school and the program. Just two weeks ago the same fans that sang Pinkel's praises now doubt the man.

In Pinkel's ten years as head coach, the Tigers won their two Big 12 North championships. Something they had never done prior. Pinkel helped Mizzou beat Nebraska for the first time in about 30 years. The Tigers have six straight winning seasons and finished above .500 in 7 out of their last 8 seasons. They have been to bowl games in each of the past five seasons and that trend will continue this year. The Tigers ranked #1 in the A.P. poll for the first time ever in 2007. The most recent graduating class of gridiron Tigers stands in history as the winningest graduating class in Mizzou history, an accomplishment that could be eclipsed by this year's class.

Recruiting is another one of Pinkel's strengths. He brought in the school's first five star recruit, Blaine Gabbert. He bcontinues bring talented players who can play at the college level and beyond. Before Pinkel arrived at Mizzou, the school had sent 28 players to the NFL in about 50 years. In just 10 years, Pinkel has sent 17 Tigers to the pros. He continues to bring in talented players like Aldon Smith who is a legitimate first round prospect. Tigers have been drafted in the first round of the NFL draft and continue to excel in the pros.

Many criticize Pinkel's offensive scheme of running the spread offense on every play. While this may not be a productive red zone strategy, the Tiger offense has been among the most prolific in the entire NCAA for the past five years. the recent struggles stem play calling which falls on the Offensive Coordinator, Dave Yost, not Pinkel.

Tiger football has earned more attention from the national media, which benefits the school. College Gameday has featured the Tigers in four games in the last four years, including their first trip to Columbia for the Oklahoma game. The Tigers are a frequent topic on ESPN. They were just one win away from a birth in the National Championship in 2007. Following this incredible run enrollment increased at the Univeristy of Missouri making the school more money. Therefore, Pinkel is a good financial choice for the Tigers and the University itself.