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The Maryland Terrapins have become a bit of a thorn in the side of the Virginia Tech Hokies on the recruiting trail recently. Expect that continue with the addition of former Hokie offensive coordinator, Bryan Stinespring, to Maryland’s staff as the offensive line coach.
Updating this now, but just spoke to Bryan Stinespring, who’s leaving JMU for O-Line coach at Maryland. “The decision wasn’t easy,” he said.
— Greg Madia (@Madia_DNRSports) January 7, 2018
Stinespring, who coached under Frank Beamer from 1990-2015, spent 26 seasons at Virginia Tech with numerous responsibilities. Stinespring was hired in 1990 as a graduate assistant and was named tight ends coach and assistant offensive line coach in 1993. Stinespring would spend years as either the tight ends coach or offensive line coach before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2002. He would remain in that post through the 2012 season before Beamer re-assigned him to tight ends coach. During this time, Stinespring would also maintain the role of recruiting coordinator.
Stinespring, of course, was let go when Justin Fuente took over as head coach before the 2016 season. He spent the last two seasons as the offensive line coach at his alma mater, James Madison, where the Dukes would win one FCS national championship and finish as the runner-up in 2017.
This is a strong hire for the Terps. Stinespring is a terrific offensive line coach. He did well in that post for the Hokies before ever assuming the role of offensive coordinator. Stinespring is also a strong recruiter. Some of VT’s best players from the ‘757’ over the last 25 years were brought to Blacksburg by Stinespring. While Maryland currently has the slimy Chris Beatty recruiting that area, it wouldn’t be a surprise to Stinespring get back in that region. He has a lot of respect there.
Fans don’t recall Stinespring’s tenure at Virginia Tech fondly and that’s a shame. Had he never assumed the role of offensive coordinator, he’d likely be revered in Blacksburg. Unfortunately, he presided over some terrible offensive play during his years as the coordinator and that’s what Hokie fans remember most about him.
Fuente doesn’t have the warmest feelings toward Maryland due to the Tajh Capehart recruitment. Expect this rivalry to pick up a little more steam if Stinespring recruits the ‘757.’