KANSAS CITY, Mo. — News that University of Kansas football coach David Beatty had been fired quickly spread across the sports bar ecosphere in Kansas City, where crowds gathered Sunday to watch the Chiefs beat the Browns.
But it wasn't exactly shocking news given Beaty's career 6-39 record, including a 2-31 record in Big 12 play during four seasons with the Jayhawks.
“Not shocked at all," one fam Zach Logan, said. "It was probably his time to go. He just hasn't produced enough."
Kansas is 3-6 this season, including a stunner two weeks ago against TCU. That's as many wins as the program managed in Beaty's first three seasons combined.
It was not, however, enough to save his job.
KU announced Sunday afternoon that Beaty would not return next season, but he will coach the team's final three games.
"It's been a tough season; it's been a long season," KU fan Michael Schrandt said. "Any change is good I think."
The Jayhawks hired a new athletic director, Jeff Long, in July, so it had long been assumed Beaty wouldn't return in 2019.
Now, Kansas fans are looking toward the future with optimism.
“I think a new coach would be a good thing just to start fresh you know," KU fan Felix Knystaugas said. "They seem to do well when they have some new blood coming in."
The real drama begins now as fans banter about who should take the reins for the once-proud program, which won the Orange Bowl after the 2007 season under Mark Mangino.
“Mangino was a good model," Knystaugas said. "Someone like that, someone who is down to earth and has fundamentals I mean, that's the best way to play college football."
Logan had a more accomplished coach in mind — LSU coach Les Miles.
“I've heard the name Les Miles thrown around and I think that would be outstanding hire at this juncture,” Logan said.
Miles may not be a realistic target, but it's OKm for Kansas fans to dream.
“I think if they bring in a big signing like that I think it will change the whole culture of the program, so I'm hopeful,” Schrandt said.
