USC football expected to promote from within for offensive coordinator hire, report says
South Carolina seemingly has its eyes set on its next offensive coordinator.
According to a report by GamecockCentral, South Carolina is set to promote analyst Mike Shula to become the Gamecocks’ next offensive coordinator.
Shula would replace Dowell Loggains, who was introduced as Appalachian State’s head coach on Monday.
Shula, the former head coach of Alabama and longtime NFL assistant, joined the Gamecocks staff earlier this year and worked under Loggains as an offensive analyst.
Really, though, he operated almost like a quarterbacks coach and was on the sidelines during games while Loggains called plays from the coaches box.
Per team sources, Shula has a great relationship with South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers, which is notable.
On Sunday, head coach Shane Beamer said the offensive coordinator opening was attractive to so many people because of Sellers and his remarkable play this November.
To bring in someone who is familiar with Sellers and South Carolina could be quite helpful in the quarterback’s growth.
The 59-year-old Shula — son of legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula — has been coaching for the past 36 years. Aside from a four-year stint as the head coach of Alabama (Shula’s alma mater), his career has only consisted of the NFL.
Yet, Shula told The State earlier this year that he didn’t view his role at South Carolina as a stepping stone to just get back to the NFL.
“I’ve kind of learned from — I guess it started with my dad, but probably, more so than him, other coaches throughout my career — don’t ever worry about the next job,” Shula said. “Everything else takes care of itself. It’s good to feel wanted and I’m really happy here.”
This story was originally published December 10, 2024 at 6:38 PM.
