Over the weekend, Gator fans were hit with some shocking news. On Saturday evening, Urban Meyer announced that he would resign as head coach of the Florida Gators football team, citing medical issues. The entire nation was shocked. What was wrong with Urban Meyer? What would happen to the Florida football program? Who would coach in 2010? There were so many initial questions. However, on Sunday Gator fans were relieved to find out that Meyer changed his mind and instead of resigned opted to take a leave of absence.

Urban Meyer is at the top of his game. He is 56-10 during his five years at the University of Florida is has the highest winning percentage (84.1%) among all active coaches with a minimum of five years. Gator fans don’t want to know what life without Urban Meyer will be like. Lucky for them, Meyer is expected to return as head football coach for the start of the 2010 season if his health improves. In the meantime, offensive coordinator Steve Addazio will act as the interim head coach following the Sugar Bowl.

Coaching a college football team is serious business – it consumes the coach’s life. To be successful and compete for National Championships, coaches have to dedicate nearly every waking moment to the football program. Coaching in college is different from the NFL. When the season is over, coaches go on long recruiting trips instead of relaxing at home. It’s ultra competitive trying to land the best high school players.

I hope the time off does Meyer some good. I hope he gets healthy and takes some much deserved R&R.