After their 0-3 start to the season, and then after their
most recent loss to USC, Pauline wonders if they are headed in the right direction. Taking last season into consideration, Pauline speculated that UCLA probably wants to fire him, but the buyout would be too big.
However, because of Kelly’s rumored desire to get back into the NFL, and because of the possibility of UCLA wanting to fire him, they may decide to mutually part ways without a big payout.
When Herman questioned whether Kelly would return as head coach in the NFL, Pauline said he doesn’t think it would be as one based on his previous stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. Instead, it would likely be an offensive coordinator position.
“He’s still a very good quarterback coach and knows his offense, so if he’s happy being a coordinator, that might be a good fit for him and the team,” Pauline said.