First, some assumptions:
1. Burman’s job is not at risk because neither Seidel nor the trustees want to pull the card of a longtime “Wyoming guy” who likely enjoys some donor support. I’m not saying I like this, I’m just saying this is the reality as I understand it.
2. Wyoming is not in a budget position to fire Sawvel at the end of the year, especially with all the uncertainty around realignment. The buyout is likely prohibitive. I haven’t done the math on the exact number, but I think firing Sawvel after one year probably puts us on the hook for around $4 million through 2027-2028.
Given those assumptions, which I believe represent an accurate view of things in Laramie, Burman must:
- Force an in-season change at OC. Compel Sawvel to fire Johnson NOW, and replace him with Bouknight. Slotting in a Wyoming legend would be a PR win and likely buys the fans off for the rest of the year as it indicates Burman and Sawvel recognize there is a problem;
- Compel a change at QB behind the scenes NOW. If they stick with Svoboda this season is on the rails to finish 3-9 at best, and likely worse.
Are there any other real-world actions Burman could take to try to fix this? I don't think there are.
If it was me I would resign in disgrace after firing everyone and elevating Bouknight to take over the rest of the season.
