A natty within 5 years is not a set in stone criteria. But a consistent progression toward that goal is. Again, every great coach at ND has won a title within 3 years. Yet, we know the landscape is different now.

In Kelly's first five years we saw mediocrity with one magical year. The next five were pretty much more of the same. An easier schedule has produced the illusion that more wins must mean the program is in great shape. Look beyond the wins and losses. When ND has been in position to play for a title, they have been thoroughly embarrassed. Kelly has shown a real lack of ability to consistently get the team ready to play in a big game. His in-game adjustments have been poor. His demeanor has at times been an embarrassment to the school and it's alumni. The program has seemed to take a step forward and then a step backward throughout his time here.

The off the field issues alone would have been enough to get him shown the door under Fr Hesburgh or Fr Cavanaugh.

When Kelly was hired he looked to be a great fit. The one thing that was worrisome was that his success was on a very small stage. That has indeed played out that he was small- timey. His recruiting strategy has resembled that of a Big East type program.

Ghostwriter, you and I want ND to win. You are absolutely right in that he is better than Davie, Willingham, and Weis. And as long as Kelly is the coach I will root for him to succeed and will root for ND to win every game. But what Brian Kelly has shown to this point is that he can't get ND to the top level. And I prefer to aspire for something better.