Phillips say public lacks confidence

(Stillwater-AP) -- Oklahoma State athletic director Terry Don Phillips is facing a critical decision regarding the O-S-U football team.

Phillips promised Cowboy fans earlier this year that he would not accept mediocrity. The Cowboys are 2-and-5 as they prepare to host 24th-ranked Texas A-and-M tomorrow.

Phillips told The Daily Oklahoman that there is no question he'll have to assess the situation as he tries to build a solid and consistent football program.

He says he won't remove head coach Bob Simmons before the end of the season, but did watch with interest the way a football change was announced at Alabama.

Alabama coach Mike DuBose announced on Wednesday that he'll resign at the end of the season.

Phillips says he knows the team is struggling, and that he sees a lack of confidence from the public.

Simmons has declined to discuss his job status, saying instead that his staff is recruiting and trying to build for next year.