Over at Athlon Sports, a writer has decided to try to rank the head coaches in the "major" men's sports (football and basketball ... sorry hockey) both nationally and by conference. The peg is that it is not by individual coach but rather by duo.

We were intrigued by the concept, and naturally wondered where someone on the outside looking in would view the Gophers' coaches.

So how did the duo of Tubby Smith and Jerry Kill rank? Well, sixth out of 12. Top half. Surprised? Here is the capsule per Athlon:

Minnesota is going to have a tough time winning in either sport, but the Gophers at least have the right coaches leading the program. Kill has won at every level from Saginaw Valley State to Emporia State to Southern Illinois to Northern Illinois. He led the Gophers back to a bowl game in his second season. Smith, who led Kentucky to a national championship in 1998, is Minnesota's first successful basketball coach since crippling sanctions in the late 90s. He should have the Gophers in their third NCAA Tournament in five seasons.

Nationally, the Gophers' duo ranked 33rd in the country.

Your thoughts, please, in the comments.