Houston Nutt Fired: Why Ole Miss Waited Too Long Before Moving on

Most would say that it's about time the move was made.

It was reported today by CBSSports.com and several other sources that Houston Nutt will no longer be the coach for the Ole Miss Rebels after this season.

In his tenure with the Rebels since 2008, Nutt has had his fair share of success, most especially in the beginning. In his first two seasons, he was able to lead the Rebels to two consecutive 9-4 seasons and Cotton Bowl titles.

Yet, it was his last two season that are two to forget.

Since going 18-8 in his first 26 games as head coach, it has been a tenure to forget for Nutt. He's just 5-15 in his last 20 games. This season, the Rebels have looked flat offensively and have allowed over 30 points per game on defense.

Talk about some poor figures.

It's not always the coach's fault. In fact, many times, it is simply the performance of the team. Yet, changing the personnel is plenty more difficult of a task than making the move at the coaching position. But the fact of the matter is, with just a 10-20 record in the SEC in his time with Ole Miss, it is evident that the team was simply not prepared enough for the big games.

This, in every way, is a sign that the coach has to go along with the fact the team is 2-7 on the season. With losses to BYU and Vanderbilt early on in the season, there was no question there was something missing with this Ole Miss football team.

The 2-7 record is deceiving, however, it should be noted. Despite getting blown out by the Alabama Crimson Tide, the Rebels did play No. 9 Arkansas and No. 23 Auburn to two tough games. Yet, the fact of the matter is, there were no wins being shown for it. Unfortunately for coach Nutt, that's what it will ultimately come down to.

There is question that Nutt finds a job elsewhere, but his days with the Rebels are all but gone, and this was ultimately the correct move for the program.