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.
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.
