It looks like the Bucs will hire a surprising college name to be their next head coach after all.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the Bucs plan to hire Rutgers coach Greg Schiano. The two sides are reportedly putting the “finishing touches” on Schiano’s contract.
Of course, the Bucs were also planning to hire Oregon coach Chip Kelly at one point. They were trying to finalize that contract, but it didn’t happen. Schiano looks less likely to have a last minute change of heart.
WDAE in Tampa first reported the Bucs’ interest in Schiano on Thursday. The Bucs’ other “finalist” for the head coaching job was Mike Sherman, who Schefter reports is now talking to the Dolphins about their offensive coordinator job.
The Bucs searched far and wide for the next head coach. A recommendation from Bill Belichick reportedly help Schiano’s case.
Schiano couldn’t be more different from Kelly in his coaching philosophy. Kelly is wildly aggressive and inventive. Schiano is much more conservative and prides himself on having a disciplined team. He once coached under Dave Wannstedt, and the two men seem to share a lot of philosophical ideas.
It’s impossible to tell what college coaches can translate success to the NFL level, but this likely won’t be a popular hire in Tampa. Schiano went 9-4 in 2011 at Rutgers after an ugly 4-8 season in 2010.
Schefter reports Schiano also interviewed with the Rams this offseason.