7 Comments
Aug 22, 2021Liked by Justin Ferguson

I have a coworker who caught Covid while vaccinated, so I know it’s entirely possible that Harsin and Mason are vaccinated as well. But after Harsin’s comments on the matter at Media Days, I have a hard time believing he is. And I think Painter is cool (Ferg too), but I disagree that this will all be forgotten in two weeks. If we’re losing coaches (players too) now, there’s a good chance we will lose others a month from now - forcing Auburn to forfeit games. I know that’s worst case and I hope it doesn’t happen, but considering Harsin’s approach to vaccinations are, “meh,” it’s not a good sign.

I know a lot of fans preaching “personal freedom” don’t have a problem with what’s happened. (I’ll be interested to hear their thoughts if we lose a game because too many players have Covid.) however, the whole situation has wiped away all the excitement I had for the guy and what’s to come. I have never been a huge Lane Kiffin fan, but even he realizes the importance of having players vaxed and healthy. Meanwhile, Harsin’s approach is already impacting Auburn negatively. Here’s hoping this is worst we endure and Painter is right, that several big wins from now all is forgotten. But I doubt it.

Expand full comment
Aug 23, 2021Liked by Justin Ferguson

I’m pretty disappointed in how purposefully evasive and insubstantial y’all’s comments are on vaccinations for the team. Even more so given how often you otherwise adopt an insider-y “this might get me in trouble with a few contacts in the biz, but I’m gonna say it anyway” tone for the show.

I’m not saying coach’s vax statuses should be judged based on guesses, but surely just from an Xs and Os standpoint it’s fair to say that coaches who are getting their players and staff close to 100% vaccinated are better preparing their teams to win games (or even just not having to forfeit them.) I can’t imagine y’all using the same hedging language if our Strength & Conditioning coaches had players in inadequate shape because some players thought doing squats or cardio was “a personal choice.”

Expand full comment
Aug 22, 2021Liked by Justin Ferguson

The Big Impact is contact tracing impact on the players if not vaccinated. Could really impact season. As far as Schmedding being tapped to step in...DC and OC s need to focus on game plans and getting rosters set...good call for Harsen to work thru Schmedding for practice logistics and communications to the team.

Expand full comment