COLUMN: Rich Rodriguez Says Public Opinion Has Shifted in His Favor Since Return
When Rich Rodriguez returned to the college football scene, skepticism lingered. His past was well-documented—an innovative offensive mind with a complicated legacy that included successful runs and turbulent exits. But now, Rodriguez says the tide has turned. “A lot of people have come around,” he recently shared, noting that time and results have helped reshape how he’s perceived.
Rodriguez is no stranger to criticism. From his controversial departure from West Virginia to his rocky tenure at Michigan, he’s long been a polarizing figure in college football. Yet in his current role at Jacksonville State, he’s quietly rebuilding not just a program, but also his reputation. Under his leadership, Jacksonville State made the jump to the FBS level and immediately showed they belong. That success is starting to turn heads—and soften opinions.
Part of the reason for this shift is performance. In today’s game, winning solves nearly everything. Rodriguez has brought stability, discipline, and, most notably, a winning culture. Jacksonville State exceeded expectations in 2023, and as they head into a new season, there’s genuine buzz surrounding the team. That buzz is inevitably tied to Rodriguez’s fingerprints on the program.
But it’s not just about wins and losses. Rodriguez appears more comfortable and grounded than in previous stints. He speaks with the clarity of a coach who has learned from past experiences and is grateful for another chance. That humility resonates with fans and media alike. His enthusiasm for developing players and building a sustainable program—not just chasing headlines—has helped him reframe his narrative.
Rodriguez admits the road back hasn’t been easy. “I’ve always believed in what we do, but it takes time for people to see the results,” he said. “Now that we’ve had some success, people are taking notice in a different way.”
Indeed, the college football world is giving Rodriguez another look. While he may never fully escape the controversies of the past, his work at Jacksonville State is forcing a reevaluation. Coaches rarely get second chances to change their story. Rodriguez is making the most of his.
In the end, winning helps. But so does growth. And for Rich Rodriguez, both are finally coming together at th
e right time.
