ALBUQUERQUE — Rocky Long essentially fired himself as New Mexico’s football coach, saying he wants what’s best for his alma mater.
Long surprised the university and the college football community Monday, announcing he is stepping down after 11 seasons to make way for someone who can lead the Lobos to a Mountain West championship.
“I want this program to be on top,” the former Lobos quarterback said. “I wanted it to be on top as a player. I wanted it to be on top as an assistant coach. And I wanted it to be on top as the head coach. I don’t see it happening with me as the head coach.”
The Lobos wrapped up their 2008 season Saturday with a 20-6 loss to Colorado State, finishing 4-8 to bring Long’s record to 65-69.
ESPN, BCS close to deal
NEW YORK — The Bowl Championship Series is close to an agreement with ESPN to televise college football’s championship game and biggest bowls — a deal that would throw up a huge barrier to any playoff system for at least six years.
Footnotes.
Utah State fired coach Brent Guy. The Aggies (2-9) are 8-38 since he took over in 2005.
• Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez said he doubts quarterback Steven Threet (shoulder) and running back Sam McGuffie (death in family) will play Saturday against Ohio State.
• Cincinnati dismissed freshman receiver Nick Truesdell for violating an undisclosed team rule.
The Associated Press
