Coachin Carousel: Was It Worth It?

Each year the coaches come and they go much like the carousel. Round and round. In today's ever changing society it seems like things are more about what have you done for me lately. College football is clearly becoming more about money, winning and exposure. In fact, during this past year nearly 18 percent of all FBS schools made coaching changes. Thus, likely being phased out are the days when coaches would typically stick around for what seemed forever. Below are a few that happened. Was it worth it? Only time will tell in providing answers allowing fans to make their own decisions.

Colorado
In: Jon Embree
Out: Dan Hawkins
Last 3 Seasons: Won 13 Lost 23 Games
This past year the buffs reportedly made advances on others before settling on a hire of its own as it heads into the PAC10 in hopes to bring back the success of its past. Unfortunately, Embree and his staff no longer have any eligibility left. Adding to the challenge is a brutal schedule without even a bye week with largely the same student athletes that finished 5-7 last season.

Miami, FL
In: Al Golden
Out: Randy Shannon
Last 3 Seasons: Won 23 Lost 15 Games
Golden inherits a team with typically amazing talent but also was undisciplined in decision making (ranked 104th in TO margin last season with 27 INTs), penalties, etc. With so much hurricane rich tradition can he make something Golden happen?

Michigan
In: Brady Hoke
Out: Rich Rodriguez
Last 3 Seasons: Won 15 Lost 22 Games
Big blue certainly has some talent in the stable. Unfortunately, some glaring statistics must be altered and quickly. The wolverines ranked 109th in TO margin. They ranked 108th in scoring defense as well as were 112th against the pass. The wolverines allowed 458 points and 5860 yards. That won't win many games. The offense was 8th overall nationally but can't carry the entire workload. With some hardwork and discipline from Hoke there might be some growing pains in the short-term but the wolverines should soon be back in business.

Pittsburgh
In: Todd Graham
Out: Dave Wannstedt
Last 3 Seasons: Won 27 Lost 12 Games
Panther coach Graham brings an impressive resume. His teams have been full of energy and have been exciting to watch (his offenses at Tulsa were #1 nationally in 2007 and 2008). Can he find a way to do it again? The sky is the limit for his high octane offense.

San Diego State
In: Rocky Long
Out: Brady Hoke
Last 3 Seasons: Won 15 Lost 22 Games
Can the Aztec momentum continue under Rocky Long? The offensive cupboard certainly wasn't left bare. It ranked 16th nationally highlighted by senior caller Ryan Lindley and super soph Ronnie Hillman who rushed for 17 TDs and over 1500 yards. The aztecs might not win the MWC with Boise State and TCU in the mix but SDSU should absolutely compete and find themselves in yet another post season bowl game.