Al Golden was caught off guard Tuesday when reports surfaced that the University of Miami offered to renegotiate his contract in light of the ongoing NCAA investigation concerning improper benefits.

When asked about the reports, Golden simply replied he had to talk to his lawyer before commenting any further. The next day, though, he made sure to remind everyone that the honeymoon is not yet over at UM.

"I just want to make sure I'm clear to everybody that we love it here at Miami," Golden said Wednesday. "My wife, kids and I, and the staff, we love it here.

"We've got incredible support from the president and our AD, Shawn Eichorst, and we're certain that support will continue in a number of ways moving forward."

It seems the only thing Golden is not happy about is his agent's decision to talk about UM's overtures. "I had a chance to speak with my attorney and I expressed my displeasure," he said.

"I wish these types of things would go away in terms of we don’t need any distractions," lamented Golden. "We're just trying to move forward with the program."

But these distractions will not go away so long as the NCAA investigation of improper benefits at UM continues. And even when the NCAA rules on its findings, if Miami receives stiff penalties for the Shapiro affair, Golden will still be hounded by questions regarding his loyalty.

Golden was an attractive head coach candidate before he accepted the Miami job. If the Canes get harsh treatment from the NCAA for Nevin Shapiro's wrongdoings, it is certain that other schools with coaching vacancies will try to poach Golden from Miami.

No amount of "I love it here" pronouncements can prevent it.