Mike Price’s brief tenure as the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team in 2003 is one of the more intriguing and unexpected episodes in college football history. Price, known for his successful stint at Washington State University, was hired by Alabama with high hopes, but his time at the helm of the Crimson Tide was marked by controversy and ultimately ended in a surprising manner. Here’s an in-depth look into why Mike Price’s time as Alabama’s head coach was so short-lived.
### **Background: Mike Price’s Hiring**
Mike Price was hired as Alabama’s head coach on December 1, 2002, following the departure of Dennis Franchione, who left for Texas A&M. Price had a successful track record at Washington State, where he transformed the Cougars into a competitive team, culminating in a 10-2 season and a berth in the 2003 Rose Bowl. Given his success and innovative offensive strategies, Alabama’s Athletic Director, Mal Moore, and the university administration were optimistic that Price could bring a new dynamic to the Crimson Tide football program.
### **The Initial Controversy**
The issues began to surface before Price even had a chance to coach a game for Alabama. In early April 2003, just a few months after being hired, Price was involved in a series of incidents that would ultimately lead to his dismissal. The key events leading to his short tenure include:
#### **1. The Incident at a Pensacola Bar**
In April 2003, it was reported that Mike Price had been seen at a bar in Pensacola, Florida, where he engaged in questionable behavior. The specifics of the incident included Price allegedly being involved in an altercation and being seen with various women. Although the full details of what transpired were not initially clear, the media quickly picked up on the story. This situation was exacerbated by the fact that Price, as a high-profile public figure, was expected to uphold a certain standard of conduct. The revelations about his behavior led to a significant public relations issue for both Price and the Alabama football program.
#### **2. Allegations of Financial Misconduct**
Further complicating matters, there were allegations that Price had incurred significant personal expenses while in Pensacola. Reports surfaced that he had racked up a substantial tab at the bar and had potentially misused a credit card issued by the university. These allegations raised questions about his financial management and responsibility, contributing to the perception of a lack of professionalism.
#### **3. Internal Investigation and Fallout**
In response to these incidents, Alabama’s administration launched an internal investigation into Price’s conduct. This investigation revealed a pattern of behavior that was inconsistent with the university’s standards and expectations for its head football coach. The university’s administration, led by Athletic Director Mal Moore, faced mounting pressure from both the media and the public to address the situation.
### **The Decision to Terminate**
On May 29, 2003, less than six months after his hiring, Alabama decided to terminate Mike Price’s contract. The decision was a result of several factors:
#### **1. Public Image and Media Pressure**
The negative publicity surrounding Price’s behavior at the Pensacola bar and the allegations of financial misconduct created a public relations nightmare for Alabama. The university’s administration was concerned about the impact that continuing to employ Price would have on the program’s reputation and the broader image of the university.
#### **2. Leadership and Professionalism**
Alabama’s administration was particularly focused on the leadership qualities and professionalism of their head coach. Price’s conduct was seen as inconsistent with the standards expected of someone in his position. The university wanted a coach who would embody the values and integrity that were important to the Alabama football program.
#### **3. Financial and Institutional Concerns**
The financial aspects of the situation also played a role. The university needed to consider the potential fallout from the financial misconduct allegations, as well as the cost associated with terminating Price’s contract and potentially hiring a replacement.
### **Impact on Alabama Football**
The abrupt dismissal of Mike Price had several immediate and long-term consequences for Alabama football:
#### **1. Coaching Search and Hiring of Mike Shula**
Following Price’s dismissal, Alabama was forced to conduct a rapid coaching search. The program ultimately hired Mike Shula, a former NFL quarterback and assistant coach. Shula’s tenure was characterized by instability and challenges, but he was able to stabilize the program to some extent following the tumultuous period under Price.
#### **2. Recruiting Challenges**
The sudden coaching change and the surrounding controversies had a negative impact on Alabama’s recruiting efforts. Prospective recruits and their families were wary of the instability within the program, which affected the team’s ability to attract top talent during that period.
#### **3. Reputation Management**
The Alabama football program and the university had to work hard to repair their public image following the Price controversy. This involved rebuilding trust with fans, alumni, and potential recruits, and focusing on stabilizing and improving the football program.
### **Conclusion**
Mike Price’s tenure as Alabama’s head football coach was notably brief, lasting only a few months due to a series of controversies and missteps. His dismissal was driven by a combination of public relations issues, concerns about professionalism and leadership, and allegations of financial misconduct. The situation highlighted the challenges that can arise when high-profile hires do not meet the expectations of their institutions, and it underscored the importance of maintaining a professional image and adhering to institutional standards. While Price’s time at Alabama was short-lived, it remains a noteworthy chapter in the history of college football coaching changes and controversies.
