Sept. 13, 2004
Expectations, expectations, expectations -- they are among the biggest problems in college athletic programs in America today.

Expectations run wild when people dream of only one major goal -- that national championship. It's the same in pro sports, when fans only think about winning the world championship and say nothing less will be accepted. If it doesn't happen, then often these programs or teams say farewell to the coach. It's unbelievable, when you think about it.

Expectations run wild when people dream of only one major goal ... that national championship.

Just look at what happened in South Bend, Indiana. After Notre Dame suffered a losing football season in 2003 and then lost at BYU in the 2004 opener, the cries got louder against coach Ty Willingham. But on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, in a place where so many miracles have taken place over the years, the Irish put forth another one, rallying to beat the then-No. 7 Michigan Wolverines.

It was an inspired performance, as Notre Dame played with passion and feeling, raising their golden helmets to celebrate victory.

Then think about what happened at Nebraska after last season when Frank Solich lost his head-coaching job. According to athletic director Steve Pederson, 10-3 was not good enough as expectations there were all about national-championship contention. Hey, some coaches get statues erected in their honor when they go 10-3, baby!

I feel bad for new Nebraska coach Bill Callahan and the pressure he is under. In only his second game, the great Cornhuskers lost at home to Southern Mississippi. That's not going to please too many members of the Big Red cheering section.

Consider also what has happened to the Yankees. Getting to the World Series is nice, but it's all about getting the ring. It creates a dilemma when you fall just short of the championship. Look at last year, when the Marlins beat the Bronx Bombers in six games.

Was there a salute or tribute about the Yankees getting to the World Series? No, because it was expected given the talent on the team. It was all about the brass ring. If they finish second this year, there will be more cries and screams about a payroll over $190 million!

Let me remind you, payrolls don't win championships, players do!

Think about North Carolina hoops when Matt Doherty was on those sidelines. They climbed all the way to No. 1 at one point, but when they fell it was bye-bye coach Doherty.

Expectations can get carried away. Emotions can change too. You know that was the case last Saturday in South Bend, Indiana and Lincoln, Nebraska.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.