Chargers add Frank Reich to coaching staff as QBs coach
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| The Chargers hired Frank Reich as their QBs coach on Friday. Reich spent 2012 as the Cardinals' WR coach. (US Presswire) |
Philip Rivers was only 2 years old when Frank Reich orchestrated Maryland's 31-point comeback in a 1984 victory over Miami (Fla.). Rivers might remember a Reich-led comeback in the Buffalo Bills' 1992 AFC wild card win over the Houston Oilers more vividly.
Reich's unique experiences as a player could help Rivers rebound from an uncharacteristic, subpar season. Several days after the hiring of Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy to replace former coach Norv Turner, Reich has joined the Chargers' staff as the team's QBs coach.
After finishing with four consecutive 4,000-yard passing seasons, the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback had 3,606 yards in 2012. From 2008-2010, Rivers had 92 TDs and 33 INTs. In the last two seasons, however, Rivers tossed 35 picks.
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Reich re-joins former Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt, who was hired as the Chargers' offensive coordinator on Thursday. Reich spent the 2012 season in Arizona as the Cardinals' WRs coach. The Cardinals ended the regular season ranked 28th in passing yards per game (187.8) and 32nd in passing yards per play (4.84).
Earlier this month, Reich said the former Cardinals coach would be a good fit for the Bills' head coaching vacancy. The Bills eventually hired former Syracuse coach Doug Marrone.
Reich's rapport with Whisenhunt could jump-start an offense that ended 2012 ranked 31st in total offense (297.3 yards per game).
“There are not a lot of coaches that have been real successful in Arizona,” Reich told WGR Sports Radio 550 in Buffalo in early-January. “‘Whis' took a team to the Super Bowl there -- that says a lot. Obviously, I think I have a good relationship with ‘Whis,' and I would be knocking on his door if he got the job.”
Reich also served as an offensive assistant with the Colts from 2008-11.
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