Former Nebraska coach Frank Solich will take over Ohio University’s football program today after the Bobcats considered Maryland offensive coordinator Charlie Taaffe among their finalists.
Ohio officials scheduled a 1p.m. press conference after holding second discussions with Solich and Taaffe in recent days. The 16-member search committee also considered Florida interim coach Charlie Strong and Virginia offensive coordinator Ron Prince. Georgia Tech defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta failed to gain a second look following an interview Sunday.
A Cleveland native, Solich also was considered by Indiana and Pittsburgh after compiling a 58-19 mark at Nebraska before released in 2003 despite a 9-3 finish. Solich replaces Brian Knorr, who was fired Nov.18 after going 11-35 in four seasons, including 4-7 this year.
Taaffe, who couldn’t be reached for comment, made a strong bid despite being uncertain whether he wanted to lead a program again. A head coach at The Citadel (1987-96) and the CFL Montreal Alouettes (1999-2000) before coming to Maryland in 2001, Taaffe recently said running a program was no longer his prime desire. Taaffe was considered for several openings last year, including Army.
“[Being a head coach] doesn’t consume me,” Taaffe said. “Been there, done that. If the opportunity comes, I would be very selective at this point in my career, and it would have to be a very good situation to consider leaving here.”
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