NIU Alum here watching Kill continue his work at Minnesota. I've enjoyed watching a similar path to success as Kill has seemingly already begun to turn things around. I've seen what Jerry Kill did to turn things around at NIU and have already seen some of the signs that its beginning to happen at Minnesota. In a day an age of immediate expectations and a whole bunch of money to gain and lose, its difficult to stay the course. Kill is a foundational man and builds the foundation from which to be able to sustain a program. Unfortunately for NIU, as we've seen again wih the departure of coach Dave Doeren for "greener pastures", Kill hasn't stuck around a program long enough to really see the sustainability come to fruition But its pretty apparent that NIU has had tremendous success using Kill's recruits two years afte his departure. Doeren deserves credit but if Kill can gel a team at NIU to produce the success they've had even after he's left, I think he deserves a chance.
I guess what I'm saying as I lounge here on my couch in advance of the BCS Bowl bids, give Kill the time to implement his changes and support him. I understand the years of disappointment lend patience to run very thin, believe me, there's been some pretty tough years at NIU, but I think you've got a man in Kill that is genuine, direct, full of passion, and with a clear vision. You may question whether or not you agree with his vision, but if you are at all in doubt, I'd suggest some faith and to get behind him, I think you'll like the results.
NIU vs. Florida St. in the Orange Bowl, can't say much for the expected outcome but if I were to be completely honest, for a team like NIU coming from where they've been to be playing in the Orange Bowl, I think the biggest challenge has already been met. Look forward to Jan 1 no matter the outcome, just might be pleasantly surprised!
