Football
Report: Michigan to Hire UNC's Chip Lindsey as Offensive Coordinator
2024-12-11
Not long after Sherrone Moore expressed his near-hire of Michigan football's next offensive coordinator, a significant development took place. CBSSports.com announced that Chip Lindsey had accepted the job. This move comes at a crucial time for the Michigan Wolverines, who faced challenges in their offensive performance during the recent 7 - 5 regular season.
Transforming Michigan's Offense with Chip Lindsey's Expertise
Background and Previous Roles
Lindsey, with his experience directing the offense at North Carolina over the past two seasons, is set to replace Kirk Campbell. Campbell's tenure ended earlier this month following a disappointing regular season marked by struggles to score and move the ball through the air. The Wolverines averaged just 22.2 points per game, ranking 111th in the Football Bowl Subdivision and having the second-least productive passing attack in the Power Four.This past season, the Tar Heels scored 32.3 points per game, ranking 35th in the Football Bowl Subdivision. The year before, Lindsey oversaw quarterback Drake Maye, who was selected with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. His track record of running prolific offenses at Southern Miss, Arizona State, Auburn, and UCF gives him the credibility and expertise needed to revive Michigan's offensive sector.Task Ahead and Challenges
Lindsey will now be tasked with resurrecting the depressed offensive area of the team and nurturing Belleville star quarterback Bryce Underwood. Underwood, the nation's No. 1 prospect, signed with Michigan last Wednesday and is set to join the team later this month. This presents a unique opportunity and responsibility for Lindsey to mold and develop Underwood into a top-notch quarterback.The Wolverines need to address their offensive issues and regain their form. Lindsey's experience and proven ability in running successful offenses give them hope, but there are still challenges to overcome. He will need to adapt to the Michigan football culture and work closely with the team to bring about the necessary improvements.Meeting Coach Moore's Expectations
Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore had specific criteria for the ideal offensive coordinator. He wanted someone who could run a balanced system, yield explosive plays, and "develop the quarterback at a high rate." He also sought someone with experience calling plays. Lindsey checks off each of these boxes.His impending move to Ann Arbor resolves one of the biggest questions for Michigan just days after the transfer portal window opened. The Wolverines are seeking to acquire another quarterback with college experience, and Lindsey's arrival seems to factor into their desire to expedite the hiring process for Campbell's successor.Moore emphasized the importance of urgency in finding the right fit. He wants a person who not only has the right scheme and football knowledge but also a love for the place. When they walk into the building, he wants to feel that love injected in them. Lindsey appears to be that person, and his leadership is expected to have a significant impact on Michigan's offense.Contact Rainer Sabin at rsabin@freepress.com. Follow him @RainerSabin