We caught up with a couple of Tampa Bay's top high school football coaches at Friday night's Robinson vs. Godby game, and they had this to say about USF's hiring of Willie Taggart:
Plant coach Robert Weiner:
"I've known Willie Taggart for a long time and I think that he will really do an incredible job. He is exactly what you think he is: he is a young and energetic coach, who not only brings a lot of passion but he's an intellectual guy, a guy who seems to really have his finger on the pulse of his players.
"I think Willie will do an outstanding job and I think he's a great hire for USF. I think it's a great day for them and I think he's someone who will do a great job for a long time for them.
"I think it will really be a huge boost for them in recruiting, not only in the area, but beyond. I think Willie's reputation ... He's coached at Stanford and Western Kentucky and he's from down here, so you're talking about a guy who's been in some significant parts of the country, including the area he's going to be coaching in now. I really have a lot of respect for him and I think he's going to do an amazing job here."
Armwood coach Sean Callahan:
"I'm happy for him. I have a good feeling about him. I'm a guy that's in his corner.
"Hopefully, he can get into Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee and Pinellas and keep those kids at home. I'm sure that was a focus. Someone who can recruit this area and win with those kids."