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Originally posted by ASUPops
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ENMU is at a different place program wise, we are playing the long game, both literal and figurative.
It's a pattern used by many successful football architects when dealing with limited resources, Snyder used it in Manhattan, Osborn in Neb. and Rocky long was using it at UNM.
1. Run a scheme that maximizes the talent of your state. Go out and recruit your instate kids heavily, esp the odd ones, too short, etc.
2. Build interest in the program by spotlighting successes, especially with those in state kids.
3. make smart investments in facilities etc.
4. Find 1 or 2 really good nontraditional impact players every recruiting class or so, think Darren Sproles, Brian Urlacher, and use that to increase donations and alumni involvement.
When Long was at UNM every qualified athlete in NM had an open invite to walk on at UNM, no matter their height, school size etc. Long believed, and it was working that if he could bring in and develope 1 or 2 NFL quality players every other 4 year class he could increase funding and begin to compete for NM blue chip players. Until he got pushed out it was working UNM was playing respectable defense and was starting to win. Now UNM is a steaming pile of crap.
Lynn and now Lee are using the same formula, use as many instate kids as possible, sprinkle in a few juco transfers and out of state kids where needed, and showcase the best athletes they can, and hope that eventually they will land a kid that doesn't fit the mold of his position but is really good. Cass was one of those as is Strand, although neither one will play in the NFL, they are local kids who have done very well and prove to folks that NM kids will get a real opportunity to play AND succeed at ENMU, vs be an afterthought at UNM. Eventually Eastern may find a running back, linebacker, d end or reciever at some small school in NM who is the next Hank Basket or Urlacher.
As it stands I think ENMU biggest goals is to keep a winning record, compete for a Conference title about every 4 years or so and begin to make the playoffs on a semi regular basis. As funding increases that should get easier.
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