Pitt: Top 5 Candidates Fans Should want as Offensive Coordinator
Nov 22, 2014; Birmingham, AL, USA; General view of a Marshall Thundering Herd helmet during the game against the UAB Blazers at Legion Field. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Bill Legg is a candidate I would place my vote for. I was a proponent of his once the news of Jim Chaney accepting the Georgia position came to light.
The reason Pitt faithful should campaign for Legg is easy; he is a model of consistency. A highly diverse coach, Narduzzi should do what ever is possible to make contact with the West Virginia-based coordinator.
As the coordinator for Marshall in 2012, Legg solidified himself as one of the best in his capacity in the entire country. That season, Legg’s offense was ranked first in the nation in passing offense (365.8/game), second in third down conversion (54.59%), and sixth in total offense (534.25 yards/game). Putting those stats into perspective scoring-wise, they averaged 40.9 points in each contest.
You’re thinking, here he goes with the passing again. To a degree, yes. But using an ever-handy calculator, they also averaged 168.45 yards rushing that season. Make you happy, now?
Imagine that quarterback expertise with MacVittie in the future.
Why it works out for Pitt: Money, money, and more money. This could be the best bang for the buck, based on his 2015 salary at Marshall, according to USA Today. He was salaried at $202, 206, a far cry from what Pitt should be able to offer him to take the same position with the Panthers. Marshall plays in Conference-USA, and with respect to that conference I will say, the increased talent at Pittsburgh should be of benefit to Legg.
Looking at the years Legg was at Purdue (’03-’07), he may have had some contact with Narduzzi as Pat was beginning his career with Michigan State. Difficult to confirm, but an instance is feasible.
Why it will fizzle out: Legg, whose Alma-Mater is West Virginia is deeply rooted in the state. This is his second stint with the Thundering Herd. Like Cumbie, it could be difficult to persuade him to leave an area he feels exceptionally comfortable in.
Do not be surprised to hear his name mentioned at least once for the position.
Next: Tyson Helton