Alabama "Stole" Miami (OH) Kicker? Oh, The Times They Are A-Changin’
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where player mobility and financial incentives are reshaping the game, the transfer portal has become a catalyst for both opportunity and controversy. This week, the transfer of kicker Graham Nicholson from Miami (OH) to Alabama ignited a heated debate, exposing the growing divide between coaches clinging to the past and those embracing the new era of the sport.
Key Takeaways:
- The Transfer Portal: A Double-Edged Sword: While the transfer portal provides players with unprecedented freedom and opportunities to advance their careers, it can create friction between coaches and fans, especially when high-profile players leave smaller programs.
- Nicholson’s Move: A Calculated Decision: Nicholson, the Lou Groza Award winner, capitalized on his success by transferring to a program with a national profile, potentially enhancing his draft stock and future earning potential.
- The "Stealing" Argument: Outdated Thinking: Coach Chuck Martin‘s claims that Alabama "stole" Nicholson are outdated in the new college football landscape where players are effectively free agents after each season.
- The "Milkshake" Analogy: College Football’s New Reality: Coach Kalen DeBoer‘s response to Martin’s accusations reflects the pragmatism and ruthlessness that characterize modern college football: "He entered the portal and we reached out to him, so that’s how it goes, right?" DeBoer’s attitude exemplifies the "I drink your milkshake" mentality, where teams are constantly seeking to acquire the best talent, regardless of previous affiliation.
The Transfer Portal: A Shifting Landscape
The transfer portal has undeniably disrupted the traditional model of college football. Players are no longer bound by loyalty to a program or a coach. They are free to pursue opportunities that maximize their personal and professional development. This shift has opened doors for players at smaller schools, allowing them to compete on a larger stage and potentially earn a spot on NFL rosters.
While the transfer portal offers a myriad of benefits for players, it has also raised concerns regarding player loyalty, program stability, and the blurring of lines between college and professional football. Coaches, like Martin, who are nostalgic for the days of player commitment, find it difficult to adjust to this new reality.
Nicholson’s Decision: A Strategic Move
Nicholson’s decision to transfer from Miami (OH) to Alabama was a calculated one. He recognized that playing for a prominent program like Alabama would enhance his visibility and increase his chances of being drafted into the NFL. The move was not about betraying his former team but rather about maximizing his potential.
It’s important to note that Nicholson did not leave Miami (OH) under unfavorable circumstances. He is not fleeing a program in decline or seeking a more favorable situation due to personal issues. He is simply seeking to advance his career at a program with a higher level of exposure and competitiveness.
Martin’s "Stealing" Argument: A Misguided Perspective
Martin’s public criticism of Alabama and his accusations of "stealing" Nicholson from Miami (OH) reflect a outdated understanding of the modern game. The notion of "stealing" a player is irrelevant when that player has exercised their right to enter the transfer portal, becoming a free agent.
The accusations against DeBoer are unwarranted. DeBoer did nothing wrong by extending an offer to Nicholson. This is simply a case of a talented player seeking a new opportunity at a program that can offer him a platform to excel.
College Football’s New Era: Embracing the "Milkshake" Mentality
The transfer portal and the increasing influence of NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals have reshaped the landscape of college football. It is no longer about simply winning championships or fostering player loyalty. It’s become a brutal business, where programs are constantly vying for the best talent and competing for scarce resources.
DeBoer’s nonchalant response to Martin’s accusations showcases this new reality. He doesn’t dwell on the past or express concern about the optics of the situation. His focus is on building a competitive team and securing the best talent available, regardless of where that talent comes from.
The "milkshake" analogy from "There Will Be Blood" perfectly illustrates the current state of college football. Teams are relentlessly pursuing the best players, using every tool at their disposal to secure them. Just like Plainview, who drained the oil from Eli’s land, successful coaches and programs are constantly seeking to acquire talent, often leaving smaller schools dry in the process.
The Future of College Football: An Uncertain Path
The increasing popularity of the transfer portal and the growing influence of NIL deals have created a complex and uncertain future for college football. The sport is navigating uncharted waters, and it is difficult to predict how the landscape will ultimately settle.
While the debate over player mobility and financial incentives will continue, it is clear that college football is no longer the nostalgic game it once was. This new era demands adaptability, pragmatism, and a willingness to embrace the "milkshake" mentality in order to thrive.
