Boiler fan seeks revenge on Tigers

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Social media played a part in sending a message to Purdue's athletic department and Mizzou.

Purdue fans didn't waste a moment turning the tables on University of Missouri Tigers after head basketball coach Matt Painter turn down the school's job offer. Purdue Alumnus William Mortl created the "Bring Gary Pinkel to Purdue" Facebook page.

"Mizzou woke up a sleeping tiger here. Pun intended because Gary Pinkel has been a fantastic coach,” said William Mortl.

The page doesn't have many fans, but its creator hopes its existence sends a message to Purdue's athletics department. Mortl said Danny Hope is a fine man, but fans want the football program to go in a different direction.

"Be able to move the program forward and be able to perform at the level our fans deserve and expect. I honestly believe Gary Pinkel from Mizzou might be the man to do it,” he explained.

He also wants Tiger fans to experience some the the anxiety Boilers felt when a popular coach considers other job options. Assistant Athletics Director Tom Schott said the university is celebrating Painter's decision to stay and not thinking about football.

"You can never question Purdue fans' creativity,” said Schott. "The irony of this is Missouri had a vacancy for a basketball coach. We don't have a vacancy for a football coach. We are very comfortable with Danny Hope's leadership."

Mortl said no matter what happens he'll still be cheering for the Boilers.

"I love Purdue,” he said. “I live, eat, sleep, breathe and bleed Black and Gold and I will always do that."

But he said wants Purdue to be aware fans are still paying attention to Boiler sports even after the celebration over Matt Painter's decision to stay ends.