Yes, the parting of the ways with SMU was not clean.  But how soon you forget that Jones took SMU to a bowl game for the first time in like 25 years (and won the bowl game).  Given the 1999 miracle turn arround at UH , taking an 0-12 team and leading them to a 9-4 record, a WAC Championship and a bowl win I think it is fair to say that the guy can coach.  Give him his due.