Ed Orgeron has his offensive coordinator.
LSU announced Pittsburgh's Matt Canada as its new offensive coordinator on Tuesday morning, ending a search that took a right turn after Lane Kiffin accepted the head job at Florida Atlantic.
“We have a real opportunity under Coach Orgeron to propel LSU football to another level,” Canada said. “The chance to put together a high-powered offense with the athletic ability available at LSU and the leadership of Coach ‘O’ is incredibly exciting. I’ve long-respected Coach Orgeron’s ability to recruit, lead and motivate. What he did as head coach at LSU under difficult circumstances was really impressive. I’m thrilled to be a part of the vision for the program.”
The lone offensive finalist for the Broyles Award and a finalist for the FootballScoop Offensive Coordinator of the Year award, Canada worked wonders in his lone season with Pitt. He propelled the Panthers from 56th to 16th nationally in yards per play and 68th to 10th in scoring. Pitt took down eventual Big Ten champion Penn State 42-39 in September and stunned ACC champion and College Football Playoff semifinalist Clemson 43-42 in November. The Panthers closed the season with wins of 56-14 over Duke and 76-61 over Syracuse.
Canada's offense also led the nation in turning red zone trips into touchdowns, converting 82 percent of their chances.
His task at LSU is simple -- modernize an offense that has held back the program in recent years.
“Coach O and Joe have been very clear about what they expect,” said Canada. “With the talent already here and what we will recruit, we can put together one of the best offenses in the country. We’re going to develop quarterbacks, score points and bring some excitement to the offense here at LSU. And of course, we’re going to do it the right way - the LSU way.”
LSU will introduce Canada to the public at a 1:30 p.m. local time press conference. He will remain with Pitt through the Panthers' Dec. 28 Pinstripe Bowl.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.