However, Cozza has refused to criticize Ryan and Giamatti publicly, saying repeatedly that he has no problems with the way the administration has treated the football program.

"This whole thing has been absolutely blown out of proportion," he says, adding that he expects the team to rebound in the next couple of years.

"It's been a tough struggle, but most gratifying is the attitude of the players, he says. "They never miss practice and work very hard. In fact, I think we're probably trying too hard."

But while Cozza keeps a very calm outward-presense, the fall has apparently been very tough on him. "This has been a dismal season for him. It sing," says Ryan. "He's not used to these situation so it's not as if he knows how to do this."

Another player, who requested anonymity there was no question that "Dome" (a team nickname for the bald coach) was upset with mandated philosophical shifts in his football program.

"He tries to keep it close to the belt, but it's kind of obvious there is not a heck of a lot of love between Carm and the administrators," he says. Little things- like the team's shower room lacking soap early in the season have magnified and gained political overtones.

Soap or no soap, what remains to be a quick turnaround next year in Yale's record might silence all the criticism that has surfaced this year.

Cozza says he hopes so and adds that two successful freshman squads in a row should brighten the future.

But for now Cozza, who has interviewed for college positions in the past, seems willing to stay at Yale. Says long-time offensive coordinator Seb LaSpina. "I think he's committed to stay. I think he's found a home he likes."