Three reasons why June Jones should be the next SMU coach

ESPN is reporting that Hawaii coach June Jones has actually resigned as the Warriors' head coach and is close to signing a deal to become the new head coach of Southern Methodist University.

While the move is a step down in terms of program prestige, SMU would offer many benefits to Jones.

For one, Jones is reportedly upset at Hawaii's lack of commitment to the athletic department. Even star QB Colt Brennan has voiced his displeasure about the under-funded athletic department. If SMU is willing to pay Jones $2 million a year (more than twice his salary at Hawaii), one has to assume that they are committed to a well-funded athletic program.

Another reason for Jones to take the SMU gig is the fertile recruiting ground that is the state of Texas. Jones will have instant access to high caliber prospects and a recruiting budget that will dwarf what he has at Hawaii. Make no mistake, Jones will not steal prospects from Texas, Oklahoma, or Texas A&M. But like the state of Florida, there is plenty of talent left over after the big three take theirs (as evidenced by the recent success of Central and South Florida and Florida Atlantic). Jones would instantly compete with Texas Tech, Baylor, TCU, Houston and UTEP for the best of what is left.

Jones would also gain the exposure at SMU that he couldn't get playing midnight home games (Eastern/Central time)at Hawaii. Jones has to be a little upset that Hawaii's first meaningful, mainland, prime time game was a blowout loss to Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. If he coaches at SMU, he'll have plenty of opportunities to show the football world how good his teams can be. From what I've been able to Google, SMU has Missouri, TCU, and Texas Tech on their schedule over the next couple years. Think ESPN would be interested in televising a Jones-led SMU team against the Texas Tech Red Raiders?

In my opinion, June Jones heading to Southern Methodist is a win-win situation for all involved (except Hawaii). The only question I have: Is the state of Texas ready for the return of Jerry Glanville?