Phil Hicks

June Jones may be leaving paradise, but for SMU football fans they may have found heaven (of course, Texans feel Texas is paradise).

Patience paid off for the Mustangs as their long coaching search came to an end Monday as Jones, the highly successful Hawaii coach, decided to relocate to Texas.

SMU officials showed they are serious about their commitment to football by luring Jones to the mainland and compensating him to the tune of about $2 million per season. That's on par with Big 12 new hires at Texas A&M (Mike Sherman) and Baylor (Art Briles). Well, actually, it's even better, some $200,000 better.

The buzz created by the hiring of Jones should energize the SMU community and fan base.

For almost two decades, the SMU program has languished. It was nothing like the proud program of the past.

A program that featured the likes of Doak Walker, Kyle Rote, Don Meredith, Craig James and Eric Dickerson deserves better.

The Ponies won the national championship in 1935 and finished No. 2 in the nation in 1982.

There's no doubt Dallas is a pro city. But there's room for a collegiate following, especially with the high-flying offensive attack Jones will bring. SMU could become like Texas Tech, attracting top quarterbacks and receivers

Jones will get the recruits. He has the pro background that players love and then there's the attraction of Big D, along with the first class facilities. The Gerald J. Ford Stadium is one of the best around. Then there's the beautiful SMU campus, along with the outstanding educational opportunities.

Now, maybe there will be plenty of excitement Dallas on Saturdays as well as Sundays.

It was a great day on the Hilltop Monday. Maybe Mustang Mania is returning.

Phil Hicks
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