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Nussmeier has a challenge ahead of him as he takes over as offensive coordinator for a team that limped to a 7-6 final record after entering November as a Big Ten title contender. With national signing day approaching and spring practice bearing down, Hoke has some important issues to tackle.
Nussmeier will have his work cut out for him, first needing to sort out the quarterback position between returning starter Devin Gardner and freshman phenom Shane Morris and most importantly shuffling an offensive line that loses two starters from a group that couldn’t consistently pass block or open up running lanes last season.
The hiring of Nussmeier sends a clear message that Hoke will do what it takes to get his team back to the ranks of the elite—even if it means firing a loyal assistant.
University of Michigan head football coach Brady Hoke announced today (Thursday, Jan. 9) the hiring of Doug Nussmeier as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Wolverines. Nussmeier comes to Ann Arbor after spending the past two seasons in the same capacity at the University of Alabama.
“Doug is a highly respected offensive coordinator and has earned a reputation as being a great mentor to quarterbacks, specifically, where he’s coached Pro Bowlers, top NFL draft choices and Heisman trophy finalists,” said Hoke. “Doug has been successful at every coaching stop with his balanced and explosive offenses, and he brings national championship experience. He is an excellent addition to our coaching staff and football program, and we are excited to have Doug, Christi and their children join the Michigan family.”
“I am extremely excited to join the University of Michigan and work with Brady Hoke, the staff and players,” said Nussmeier. “I’m proud of what we accomplished in two seasons at Alabama, and I owe a great deal to Coach Saban for that opportunity. Michigan is a program I’ve always had deep respect for, and I’m looking forward to getting started in Ann Arbor and being a part of the great tradition there.”
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ANN ARBOR, Mich. — University of Michigan head football coach Brady Hoke announced today (Wednesday, Jan. 8) that offensive coordinator Al Borges will not be retained for the 2014 season.
“Decisions like these are never easy,” said Hoke. “I have a great amount of respect for Al as a football coach and, more importantly, as a person. I appreciate everything he has done for Michigan Football for the past three seasons.”
Prior to joining U-M in 2011, Borges was a member of Hoke’s staff at San Diego State in 2009 and ’10.
The Wolverines will begin spring practice on Feb. 25 and finish with the annual Spring Game on Saturday, April 5, at Michigan Stadium
Freshman Shane Morris appeared in only four games all season (5-of-9 for 65 yards and one interception) before being pressed into the starting role in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl because of an injury to quarterback Devin Gardner.
Gardner was injured during the Ohio State game allowing Morris to take all the practice repetitions with the first team during bowl preparations.
How did he do in his first collegiate start?