FIU Hires Former Miami Coach Butch Davis
Florida International University formerly announced the hiring of former Miami Coach Butch Davis today. Davis’ last coaching stint was with the North Carolina Tar Heels from 2007-2011. Since then, he has served as a studio analyst for ESPN.
Davis had expressed interest in returning to Miami, albeit Dixie Hwy and not 8th St. After the firing of Al Golden, many expected the university to rehire the coach who oversaw one of the Hurricanes last eras of dominance.
While at Miami, Davis led the Hurricanes to a 52-20 record. Due to NCAA sanctions, Davis was limited in recruiting during his five year tenure. However, Davis able to put together arguably the best team in college football history. The 2001 Hurricanes team featured heavily players recruited by Davis. Several would go on to have Hall of Fame worthy careers in the NFL. Though he resigned before the season to coach the Cleveland Browns, the 2001 National Championship was won due to Davis.
In 2008, Davis led the Tar Heels to their first winning season since 2001. Several of his UNC players would become first round NFL Draft picks; Hakeem Nicks, Robert Quinn and Jonathan Cooper.
Davis takes over a FIU program trying to establish themselves within the shadow of The U.
Established in 2002 the Panthers program has an all-time record of 52-112. Former Miami offensive tackle Mario Cristobal produced the only winning seasons in program history in 2010-11 (7-6 and 8-5).
FIU started 2016 0-4 before firing coach Ron Turner after four years. The Panthers had gone 11-30 during his tenure.
One of the biggest names in South Florida college football, Davis brings credibility to the FIU program. Davis knows the recruiting area better than anyone. More importantly, he gets results on the field. FIU will never be bigger than the Hurricanes in Miami. However, Davis’ hiring will surely garner the attention of the 305.
