When Rick Neuheisel came to the University of Washington in January 1999, it was no accident that he made Keith Gilbertson one of his first hires. Gilbertson had been a top assistant for Don James in the Huskies' glory years, serving as offensive coordinator for the national championship team in 1991. In bringing back Gilbertson, Neuheisel sent a message to the Husky Nation that had adopted him -- I understand you. I'm ready to be on your team.

By promoting Gilbertson, the UW administration is doing the prudent thing. After all, preseason practice begins in just days, and the only thing tougher to find than snow in July is a football coach. They disappear. Giving Gilbertson the job provides stability to a program that, with Neuheisel's departure, needs it.

However, by promoting Gilbertson, the UW administration is also sending the same message to its citizens that Neuheisel sent four years ago. Try not to worry. Gilby is here. Gilby is in charge. Washington may be the only I-A school that would have hired Gilbertson as a head coach. He left the "U" after the national championship season for a four-year losing stint at California. Knowing how Gilbertson feels about Washington, it may be the only place he would consider being a head coach.

At a sad time, in a program emotionally spent by the end of the tumultuous Neuheisel era, the promotion of Gilbertson is a security blanket. The fact he has a four-year deal will likely calm things in Seattle.

And given this offseason in college football, that would be a welcome change.

Gilbertson's career highlights
Head coaching experience (48-35)

1992-95 - California Golden Bears