LSU has hired Pittsburgh offensive coordinator Matt Canada away from the University of Pittsburgh Panthers in hopes that he can make the Tigers’ run-heavy offense more dynamic and productive against some of the nation’s better defenses.
As The Associated Press reports, the hiring of Canada marks the first significant staff addition made by LSU coach Ed Orgeron, who took over on an interim basis after Les Miles was fired in late September and received the job on a permanent basis after going 5-2. Orgeron also has retained defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, whose unit allowed just 15.4 points per game.
“We have a real opportunity under coach Orgeron to propel LSU football to another level,” Canada says in a statement released by LSU. “The chance to put together a high-powered offense with the athletic ability available at LSU and the leadership of Coach ‘O’ is incredibly exciting. I’ve long-respected Coach Orgeron’s ability to recruit, lead and motivate. What he did as head coach at LSU under difficult circumstances was really impressive.”
Canada adds that quarterbacks will be developed and LSU’s offense will become more exciting. His offenses have been defined by balance, creativity and misdirection. Of Pitt’s 5,370 total net yards of offense this season, 2,757 have come on the ground and 2,613 through the air.
Canada’s unit at Pitt enjoyed a prolific season, averaging 42.3 points and 447.5 yards for Pitt, which went 8-4 this season and next meets Northwestern in the Pinstripe Bowl in Dec. 28, Canada is expected to remain with the Panthers through the bowl game.
Canada, who turned 45 next month, takes over for Steve Ensminger, who’d moved up from tight ends coach on an interim basis after former coordinator Cam Cameron was fired on the same day Miles was.
