ctinsider
In a strongly worded message posted on the university's athletic website Saturday night, Tulane athletic director David Harris expressed deep embarrassment over what he described as an alarming 50-point defeat to Tulsa on homecoming weekend.
Harris, now in his third season as AD, did not mince words: 'The performance by our football program was unacceptable, and far below the standard that we have come to expect in recent years.' He also acknowledged the frustration and disappointment felt by supporters, adding, 'I am embarrassed by what transpired on the field in front of our student-athletes' families, alumni, fans and the entire Tulane community.'
The 60-10 loss dropped Tulane to 4-5 overall and 2-3 in the American Conference, a stark contrast to last season when the Green Wave were one of two non-power conference teams to earn a College Football Playoff berth. Harris hired coach Will Hall last offseason after Jon Sumrall left to take the head coaching job at Florida.
Hall, whose team trailed 46-0 before getting on the board with Cooper Helmke's 38-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter, acknowledged the severity of the loss. 'We've played better than this,' Hall said. 'It's definitely fixable. We've got to fix it and it starts with me.' He did not indicate whether any staff changes were being considered, stating instead, 'Right now, I'm focused on taking this team and playing much, much better in seven days in Houston at Rice.'
Tulane's lone touchdown came on a 4-yard pass from Dagan Bruno to Bredell Richardson with just 2 seconds remaining. Tulsa improved to 5-4 overall and 2-3 in conference play with the victory.
Harris emphasized that the point differential made this defeat particularly troubling. 'While any loss is difficult to accept, today's defeat was particularly alarming, given the point differential,' he said. 'This season has not met the expectations of our department. With at least three games remaining, our responsibility is to respond with urgency.'
He concluded by affirming his accountability: 'I am accountable for Tulane Athletics and the performance of our teams. We will continue to make an investment in our football program that matches the expectations we have.'
Key Analysis
Harris's public rebuke underscores the high standards he has set for the program, especially after last year's playoff appearance. The loss to Tulsa not only damages Tulane's bowl hopes but also raises questions about the team's direction under Hall. With three games left, the Green Wave must respond swiftly to avoid a disappointing season.
Originally reported by ctinsider.