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In a move that was long expected Virginia Tech officially hired Brad Cornelsen as the football team’s offensive coordinator.
ICYMI @CoachFuente adds another member to his staff. DETAILS https://t.co/pvihChu9Zl pic.twitter.com/13iFckCrJ9
— VT Football (@VT_Football) January 1, 2016
Coach Cornelsen was also HC Justin Fuente’s offensive coordinator during his time with the Memphis Tigers. During his four years at Memphis Cornelsen has been credited as a major part of developing the Tigers from being a doormat team into a top-25 squad.
In particular, Cornelsen is recognized for his skill at developing young quarterbacks. Under the tutelage of the Hokies’ new OC, Paxton Lynch, Memphis’ QB for the last three years, achieved career stats of 8865 yards, 59 TDs, and only 23 INTs. Lynch recently declared for the 2016 NFL Draft, and is considered one of the top prospects. ESPN’s Todd McShay has him as the current No. 2 draft pick, while Mel Kiper has him ranked No. 6.
This season the Memphis Tigers finished No. 18 in total offensive yards (6330 yards) and No. 17 in passing offense (3999 yards). To put that in perspective, Virginia Tech was No. 68 in total offensive with 5006 yards, and No. 53 in passing with 2936 yards.
Prior to joining Memphis, Coach Cornelsen was the offensive coordinator for Division II program, Northeastern State (NSU). He had the NSU offensive in the top 25 of passing offense and total offense, just as he has done at Memphis.
Coach Cornelsen and Coach Fuente both coached at Illinois State from 2003-2006.
Welcome to the Hokie family, Coach Cornelsen! It is safe to say that all of the Virginia Tech faithful are excited to have such apparent offensive prowess joining the staff!
Follow Coach Brad Cornelsen on Twitter @coachcornelsen.