Chargers hire McDaniels as new OC on bye week

by Don Coryell, Jr.

Blogger, San Diego Union-Tribune

The Chargers have had little to no punch offensively through the first three weeks of the season. Scoring only 20 points in two games coached by Bob Winuvas (the third game was a simulation), the team felt it needed to make a change.

That change was announced today when Coach Winuvas made a big splash, hiring former Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to man the offense.

"Josh will bring his passing style over to us from New England, and we hope to incorporate it into our plan," Coach Winuvas said.

Sources say that the team will utilize more shotgun runs and more short passes in shotgun sets, something that the coach doesn't care for but he knows a change needs to be made.

"Coach won't say it, but he knows his scheme is old-fashioned," said a disgruntled player who wanted to remain anonymous. "He hired him (McDaniels) to get a different look and attitude on offense."

Philip Rivers is excited about the hire.

"Can't go wrong with his scheme. Look at what he accomplished in New England. We have the talent at wide receiver with Keenan (Allen), Kenny (Stills), Stevie (Johnson), Larry (Fitzgerald), and Marques (Colston). We have two good backs in Melvin (Gordon) and Branden (Oliver). Our offensive line is good. We just need to open up the offense and let it rip," Rivers said during the press conference announcing the hiring of McDaniels.

A new playbook and a new philosophy - will Coach Winuvas be able to adapt?