SMU Seeks Savior, Scores Jones

Relocation is intriguing. Relocation is inviting. Humans crave challenge. We desire difficulty. We seek obstacles. We may compliment familiarity. However, our happiness is a façade. Within our heart, we implore bleaker circumstances.

On January 5, Hawaii Coach June Jones resigned. On Monday, SMU hired him. According to Jones, the relocation was necessary. “There's absolutely no comparison,” Jones said. “At Hawaii, the office that I sat in was the same office that Dick Tomey sat in in 1986. The carpet was the same ... You're talking about the NFL and a Pop Warner team.”

During his Hawaii tenure, Jones logged a 76-41 ledger. In 2007, he accrued 12-1 record. Unfortunately, Hawaii’s conclusion proved disastrous. In the Sugar Bowl, Georgia defeated them 41-10. “No matter what he ever did or no matter how much he won he wasn't going to have the right money or facilities,” said Hawaii Quarterback Colt Brennan. “I'm sad to see him go but after just having experienced the Sugar Bowl I understand how this is a business.”

Overall, Jones has amassed a 98-77 record. With the Atlanta Falcons, he chalked a 19-29 chart. With the San Diego Chargers, he went 3-7. “Hawaii will always be my home,” Jones said. “The opportunity here surpasses everything ... I just really believe this is the time for me to move on.”

From 1980-1986, SMU scored a 61-19-1 record. They were a behemoth. Since, they have recorded one winning season. Jones may improve SMU. He may not. However, the desolation will challenge him. An incredible challenge which he provoked.