Arne Carlson criticizes state of the program

[howeda7]

How is that misinformed? Are you some type of "insider" like so many on the internet like to call themselves? Arne is not a big financial backer of the U like a Dick Ames,; he doesn't sit on the Board of Regents; he doesn't live in state; and he no longer holds any political office. Why would you think he holds any more sway over the powers that be than most other alumni?

I'm no insider, but it doesn't take one to know that a man who's been a huge booster of the program and was once the governor of the state has some friends within the upper reaches of the Administration who will listen to his opinion. Naive much?

 

[tato2001]

It's not about Arne's (lack of) money, or whether he has actual pull within the University itself. It's about his profile. When someone that literally everyone in the state recognizes, and who is at least well known by people who DO have clout takes the time to go on television and basically say the University Football program is in a shambles, people will turn their heads and think, "wow, movers and shakers in this state are actually stating 'WTF' publicly." Someone at Channel 5 felt that strongly enough to put it on the air.

It would have been all too easy for Arne to give a bland, "it was a tough day for Minnesota football, I wish them the best in getting the season turned around." But he didn't do that. I'm guessing there's a little more to the reason why he did what he did.

Believe me, Maturi definitely groaned when he saw that bit.