Les Miles Remains Faithful to LSU Tigers Football Program, Michigan ‘No Geaux’
For years, there have been various speculations that Les Miles’ fate would be the head coach position at the University of Michigan. However, on Monday, Dec. 15, Miles unofficially stated that he is not leaving Louisiana State University’s (LSU) football program for Michigan’s. Reports state that he would not give an official statement to the press but did speak about the position’s rejection to his team.
Interestingly enough, CBS Sports reports the following.
“Miles is currently the seventh-highest paid coach in the nation with a 2014 compensation package totaling more than $4.3 million. He trails only Alabama’s Nick Saban (No. 1, $7.1 million) and Texas A&M’s Kevin Sumlin (No. 4, $5.0 million) among SEC coaches.”
Sure, a pay raise would be nice for anyone. However, sometimes money is not the deciding factor, especially if one’s salary already exceeds seven figures per year. Essentially, additional money does not equate to the invested time put into this team — overcoming several peaks and valleys as well as accomplishing numerous victories together as a working unit. To speak compassionately, for the last nine years, LSU has been Miles’ extended family.
And as a family, Les Miles is constantly spending time with his team. As can be seen from his Facebook page, Miles had Thanksgiving dinner with them on the day of their game against the Texas A&M Aggies. So accordingly, his decision to stay is much deeper than personal gains.
As a man with ethical presence and compassion, one does not just walk out on family. If it were to happen, there would most likely be extenuating circumstances to influence such a decision — of which none seem to be present.
In contrast, if Les Miles were to take the position at Michigan, he would basically be pressing a metaphorical “restart” button on all the hard work he has input toward his coaching career via the Tigers’ athletics.
Understandingly though, his team empathizes that Miles began his own football career at Michigan in 1974 — and it was his first coaching position from 1980 to 1981, then again from 1987 to 1994. So, it is not like he would just “jump ship” for another team. Les has a history with the Wolverines, as well. However, regardless of those alma-mater feelings and pasts, the team is behind him and his decision either way. This is a prime example of family; it supports, even when the situation could resolve unfavorably or disadvantageously.
Though Miles is staying with LSU, it does not cancel his love and support for his alma mater. As seen from his Twitter, on Nov. 29, he cheered for them as they faced Ohio State University.
Geaux Blue!!…. Beat em in the Horseshoe!!!
— Les Miles (@LSUCoachMiles) November 29, 2014
Seemingly hopeful, on Dec. 15, Detroit News reporter Angelique Chengelis states the following.
“Certainly, this revelation Monday doesn’t fully close the door on Miles …”
What are your thoughts? Do you think he will retire from his coaching career with LSU?
[Feature Image via Getty Images Sport]
