There are a few reasons why I think Edsall is a good hire, but I want to focus on one specifically. A lot of coaches do their new school some lip-service during the introductory press conference by saying that coaching at the particular school is a “dream job.” In reality, this is often just coach-speak. If Malzahn had been hired, he surely would have called Maryland a dream job. Surely, he would also jump to an SEC head coaching job if he experienced success as a Terp. Edsall was extremely sincere in referring to Maryland as a dream job, though. I always like a coach who is at his “dream job” because it’s not just a job to them; it’s an undeniable passion. Edsall attended his first college football game at Maryland, went to Left Driesell’s basketball camp, and said he wants to spend his career as a Terp. Maybe I’ll be wrong, but I think Edsall sees College Park as a destination, not a stepping stone. Usually coaches who are working at what they consider to be a destination school will be more successful, since they want to stay there for as long as possible.
Short of hiring another TERP alum, this appears to be an excellent choice. Also, the fact that Edsall has been a head coach sets him far apart from an OC such as Malzahn. Edsall comes in knowing how to delegate…. as a head coach should. His leadership skills should serve us all very well…..only time will tell.
All of that being said, the fan base needs to step back and judge this hire several years from now. Edsall comes in following a 9-4 season….expectations (in the near term) could be unrealistic. Let’s see who comes on board to round out the coaching staff….let’s see who Edsall (& his staff) recruit as players. As long as Edsall is still “playing with Fridge’s players,” it will be difficult to determine how well he and his staff are actually doing.
Blog from Irv Beitler University of Maryland Class of 1972
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