Brian Churney's scathing indictment of Bob Davie in yesterday's Observer is ridiculous and deserves a reply. Logic was never a required course at a university, but perhaps the deans should again encourage its study — judging by Mr. Churney's lack of it.

First, do not argue from the particular to the general: Poor clock management does not equal poor coaching overall.

Second, do not use false syllogisms. Churney states, "If he's a good coach ... he must ... ensure victory." Oh! That's easy! (In fact, why don't we just save the salaries on coaches and buy insurance?)

Third, do not use hyperbole as facts. Churney states, "Routinely, Bob Davie fails ... [and] "The fact remains, though, that Bob Davie has brought little good to the Notre Dame program." Well, how about recruiting, just for starters?

Mr. Churney also chides Davie for lack of class. I submit that even if it were only one thing that Mr. Davie had brought to this great university, it would be class in coaching.

Yes, clock management was inadequate. Yes, better decisions could have been made. Is that not always the case on this side of heaven?

I suspect that Mr. Churney is simply a victim of that numerology that led us all to hope that this would be a perfect or near- perfect season. Perhaps not, but this team and its coach are "stand up guys." Don't count them out yet!

John E. Moore

Wilbraham, Mass.

September 16, 1999

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• Churney ridiculous, victim of numerology