Spurrier removed his name from consideration Thursday to replace Ron Zook, who was fired last week after the latest in a series of embarrassing losses. Zook replaced Spurrier after the 2001 season when Spurrier left to coach the Washington Redskins.
``When I departed three years ago, there were several reasons why I believed it was time to move on,'' Spurrier said in a statement. ``Other than simply wanting to coach in the NFL someday, I also believed that 12 years at Florida was probably long enough. Many people in football believe that around 10-12 years in the same job is about the maximum time a coach should stay.''
The Gators won six Southeastern Conference championships and the 1996 national title under Spurrier. He posted 122 victories over 12 seasons, tormented opponents with his offensive flair and witty one-liners, and left town with the best winning percentage in league history.
Spurrier said athletic director Jeremy Foley called him several times this week to set up a meeting after the season with him and school president Bernie Machen.
``They were obviously making an effort to meet with me,'' Spurrier said.
Spurrier was fired by the Redskins after last season.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2004/11/148139