Fresno State football didn’t hesitate in searching for a new offensive coordinator.
About a month after relieving offensive coordinator Dave Schramm of his duties, the Bulldogs announced his replacement in former Alabama offensive analyst Eric Kiesau.
Kiesau is coming off a big year with the Alabama Crimson Tide, who defeated the No. 1-ranked Clemson Tigers in a 45-40 thriller in the College Football Playoff National Championship game on Jan. 11.
“After an extensive search, I’ve chosen Eric Kiesau to be our offensive coordinator,” Fresno State head coach Tim DeRuyter said in a press release on Dec. 31. “Eric brings a great mix of passion, energy and history of high achievement as a coordinator at Power Five conference schools. I am sure the Red Wave will love his up-tempo, explosive offense as we return to competing for championships in 2016.”
There doesn’t figure to be major philosophical changes as Kiesau’s offensive approach is similar to what the Bulldogs have run since DeRuyter took over the program in 2012 — an up-tempo, no-huddle, spread attack to wear down opponents.
Kiesau’s previous coaching jobs include Cal (2002-05, 2011), Colorado (2006-10), Washington (2012-13) and Kansas (2014). He served as offensive coordinator at one point or another during his time with the Buffaloes, Huskies and Jayhawks.
With his extensive experience, he will look to turn around a Fresno State offense that ranked near the bottom of college football in 2015. Out of 128 Division I FBS teams, the Bulldogs ranked 105th in rushing yards per game, 106th in passing yards per game and 124th in total offense.
The Bulldogs also didn’t have a single player reach 1,000 yards last season — that includes quarterbacks, running backs and receivers. Quarterback Zack Greenlee led all passers with 866 yards through the air, running back Marteze Waller was almost there as the senior piled up 920 yards on the ground, and Jamire Jordan led all receivers with 540 yards.
“From day until nighttime when I go to bed, I’ll be committed to getting Fresno State’s offense going in the right direction and getting these kids to believe in what we’re doing,” Kiesau said in an interview with Fresno State Athletics. “Hopefully, you’ll see that product on the field.”