At this time one year ago, if I had told you that both Sweetwater and Tennessee would be looking for new head coaches to lead their programs, chances are I would've lost all credibility with you.

I certainly didn't see it coming and I highly doubt anyone else did, either.
But after former Sweetwater coach Dan Williams resigned for personal reasons and Lane Kiffin left for the West Coast, both teams are left in a situation neither school figured to be in this winter.

And while UT is scrambling to hold together another prized recruiting class, things are different at Sweetwater.
It's just an ironic twist that Sweetwater is heavily involved in both situations as former Wildcat Kippy Brown has been in the mix up in Knoxville.
While UT football holds a place in most hearts around here, Sweetwater is the focus for today.
The situation surrounding Williams' resignation is unfortunate for several different reasons, but one that he felt was in the best interest of his family.

I don't think anyone should have any problem with a guy putting his family first.
But with Williams leaving, the Wildcats are losing a guy that seemed to be highly thought of in the community, a good leader, and an all-around good guy.
Yes, Williams did go 2-8 last season but, as I've said before, it was going to be tough for the Wildcats to win even if Bill Belichick had been named the coach.
It was a perfect storm of youth, inexperience, a tough schedule, and new schemes on both sides of the ball.

Throw some key players getting injured into the mix and you'll see Williams did an admirable job of piloting the Sweetwater ship.
But now that he's out, it's time to focus on who the new coach will be.
Names have been tossed around, candidates have been mentioned and rumors started. But, as was the case last year, it's hard to get a feel on where the Sweetwater administration will turn.
However, it's clear that the administration has learned from last year's search that dragged late into the school year and prevented the Wildcats from holding spring practice.

While getting the right person in place is their biggest priority, doing so quickly is also high on the list.
Whoever is selected to lead the Wildcats will still face a few challenges, but the risk could be worth the reward.
With young players like Gavyn Davis, Eli Arwood, Dante Johnkins, and Jordan Moore on the roster, this team is talented.

And though the schedule still looks tough, next year's squad will be prepared to handle it better.
Williams' resignation was a setback to the Wildcats' program, but with the right hire, it could just be a minor bump in the road.