MIAMI — It’s one of the taboo subjects that will put a slow burn under Bob Stoops. Discussing the Broncos’ coaching opening ranks right down there with Oklahoma’s recent BCS bowl record among Stoops’ big beefs.
I showed up here Sunday night, two days later than most of the media horde, also known in Oklahoma circles as vultures, mosquitoes and various other vermin. Fortunately, I was mercifully saved from Stoops’ icy glare when I asked him during Monday’s media day at steaming Dolphin Stadium if Pat Bowlen’s people had contacted his people.
“No,” he said with practiced brevity.
This potential Broncos-Stoops marriage is still a longshot. Bowlen most likely would have to get turned down by a few established NFL assistants before turning to his fellow Sooner. However, I still believe Stoops will listen if called.
He’s ambitious. He’s also patient. And he’s been at Oklahoma 10 years. A win over Florida on Thursday night would give him his second national championship. Listen to what he said about his career path.
“As the Good Book says, ‘Everything has its time,’ ” Stoops said. “I’ve always been patient. I’ve felt I’ve always worked the job I had and never looked for another one. Everything has its time.
“Even when I was at Florida after my first year, there were some considerations about some head coaching jobs that I declined because I felt I hadn’t been there long enough. I felt there was more I could learn that when I became a head coach I’d be more comfortable.”
Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione has been buried with questions here about Stoops and is none too pleased.
“Here we are at the national championship game,” said Castiglione, looking up at birds flying overhead. “This might be our Capistrano. The swallows are now coming in. The rumors and innuendos have started.”
John Henderson covers college football. Contact: 303-954-1299 or jhenderson@denverpost.com.
