Backed and then embraced by his players, embattled Texas football coach Charlie Strong said Monday he wants to return for a fourth season.
"Next year, I want to come back," Strong said at his weekly press conference. "I look at the job this staff has done and look at the players they've put in place. The wins and losses, they don't stack up, but still, you're looking at a young football team, a team that when you get everything back in place for the coming year has a lot of talent."
A source familiar with the decision-making process indicated Sunday that the decision had been made to fire Strong. Then athletic director Mike Perrin issued a statement later in the evening addressing "rumors" of Strong's firing and saying no decision would be made until after the regular-season finale against TCU on Friday.
After a loss Big 12 doormat Kansas on Saturday dropped Strong to 16-20 in three years and 5-6 this season, Strong's fate was clear-cut.
But by waiting, the Texas administration gave Strong and his players a chance to reset the narrative.
Strong took full advantage of an incredibly awkward situation, talking about his love for the players and the foundation he's laying. He became a martyr, although one that is still breathing, and a victim.
Strong said he had spoken after every game with UT President Greg Fenves and with athletic director Mike Perrin. No, he hasn't been told that he could be fired.
"I've been told we will be evaluated at the end of the season. After the last game against TCU, a decision will be made," Strong said, adding, "I don't know how they will be thinking, but winning that game would help."
After his news conference, Strong exchanged hugs and handshakes with dozens of players as well as university staff who came in a show of solidarity and support.
Imagine Strong posting a big win over TCU (5-5, 3-4 Big 12) on Friday at Royal-Memorial Stadium. His players hoist him in the air as they've done in the past. So is there a firing news conference Saturday, or does the administration blink, say a 6-6 season is good enough and he's coming back the following Monday?
Think about the Les Miles saga that unfolded late in the 2015 season at LSU. He returned this year only to be fired four games into the season.
