I understand Ash wants to establish his own identity with the program, but removing awards that go back a few decades is, IMO, a slap in the face to all of those who earned the awards and former players. Like it or not Ash, in the eyes of many, is removing the connection to a man (Burns) who was and still is Rutgers football. Change was required, but everything doesn't have to go. Perhaps the awards aren't given during the spring game, but remain a part of the program. I spoken with a few former players, who are 100% behind Ash, but can't get behind this one. It seems like he's cutting ties with all from the past. The question now becomes in Ash's attempt to purge Flood's mistakes he somehow is erasing a lot more than just one coach's legacy. Is Ash under the impression Rutgers never won and Flood only made things worse? I respect the ways of Ohio State and Rutgers can learn from them, but Rutgers still has pride and some of its own traditions that are important to us.
Signed
Doug Adkins
1991 Frank R. Burns award winner