Southern Miss Head Coaching Search: Doug Nussmeier A ‘Strong Candidate’
The Southern Miss head coaching search has its sights set on Florida OC Doug Nussmeier. He is reportedly a "strong candidate."
The Southern Miss head coaching search is running full speed ahead. Former head coach Todd Monken decided to take the offensive coordinator position with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this past Sunday, leaving a void the Eagles are wasting no time in trying to fill. Monken turned the program around in just three seasons, improving from a 1-11 record in year-one to a 9-5 mark this past season.
With National Signing Day less than a week away now, it’s crucial for Southern Miss to have a head coach in place to reassure recruits with the direction of the program.
Both FootballScoop.com and Pat Dooley of The Gainesville Sun have heard that Nussmeier is a “strong candidate.”
If Nussmeier were to be hired, it could potentially be a sizable blow to the Gators’ recruiting efforts, especially on the offensive side of the ball, as they try to tie a bow on the 2016 class.
Nussmeier was hired as part of Jim McElwain’s inaugural staff at Florida. Prior to joining the Gators, he was the offensive coordinator for Michigan (2014), Alabama (2012-13), Washington (2009-11) and Fresno State (2008). He also held the quarterback coaching responsibilities at each one of the aforementioned stops.
Nussmeier played quarterback for the University of Idaho, and was selected in the fourth round of the 1994 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. He spent five seasons in the NFL and one in the Canadian Football League before hanging his cleats up to become a coach.
