I'm generally curious about how things go in college football in the subtler areas of coaching --- what is the reason for the sympathy towards Dooley above? Not doing anything but asking an open question here, since I'd heard that he basically abused his entire coaching staff two years ago [which is the major reason that Harry Hiestand was available]. Or am I "missing" missing sarcasm italics?
For me it's a couple reasons.
I think it's sympathy for the mess he walked into. Being it was a mess created by Kiffin, it somewhat translates to the ND fanbase.
I have several UT pals, some with mild connections to the university and also the football program. I'm not sure abuse is the word I would use. He is a task master and demands much from his staff. At least that's the sentiment I've seen from the fanbase.
He also has come very close to big wins, just couldn't get over the hump. If they had any defense whatsoever, they would be right there competing in the East. His choice to change defensive schemes this year probably put the nail in the coffin.
Also, I think it's becasue he at UT, which of all of the SEC teams out there, they are probably the most liked outside of the SEC fanbase. I've been to a ton of SEC games, and stadiums. I can say hands down their fan base is the nicest. They, IMO are pretty humble compared to UGA, Florida, LSU, Bama, etc. fans. Just a very different experience. Dooley did the right things, said the right things, etc., so very likeable on the surface without having the SEC attitude.