8 or out in my mind. 7 would be a disappointment. 8 would be OK and the minimum number that I'd accept as far as keeping him. The other factor will be recruiting. Remember, 'braska fired Solich after a 10 win season because he wasn't recruiting well. If Hawkins wins 8 but his recruiting class is still not getting close to top 20, I still might want him gone. If he is getting nothing but 2 and 3 stars next year after winning even 8 or 9 games, then I'd be real concerned.Unfortunately, we've slipped as a program to the point where 7 wins has to be viewed as progress. It would be hard for me to justify firing him after a 7 win season, although I certainly won't be satisfied with that.
The fact of the matter is, unless we have 9 or more wins and a little national exposure, we won't be able to recruit any kids. Make no bones about it, the class we have coming in will come back to haunt us in 3-4 years. If we have back to back classes like this, we could be in a heap of trouble for years to come.
The fact of the matter is, unless we have 9 or more wins and a little national exposure, we won't be able to recruit any kids.
I decided on "8".
I almost went with "7", but if we went 6-6 and then won a low-level bowl game I believe that a coaching change would be in order (same with 7-5 with a bowl loss). 7-5 with a bowl win or 8-4 with a bowl loss and I'd feel we had a nice season and look forward to seeing what Hawkins can do with that huge 2011 senior class and favorable home schedule.
Seven wins or more, I'm okay with him for another season. 8 wins*, and I like the guy again. 9 or more, he's my hero.
Less than seven and I'm out of patience.
EDIT: For the record, I've always liked Coach Hawkins. What I mean, is if he wins 8 or more, I'll trust him as a coach again.
Winning home games is great, but one of the many things Talkins HAS TO DO is win on the road. Were not going to see 6,7,8, or 9 wins if he doesn't.
I want him out regardless. I am done with him as a coach.