What could OC Chip Lindsey bring to Michigan football’s offense?

Michigan football could be close to hiring its next offensive coordinator, and it was reported Chip Lindsey is the target. Nothing is official, but it’s a chance to look at what Lindsey offers as a coordinator.

Michigan expected to hire Chip Lindsey as OC

Lindsey’s offenses have averaged at least 30 points per game in eight of his 11 seasons as a full-time staff member. This season at North Carolina Lindsey led the offense to 423.4 yards per game (37th in FBS) and 32.3 points per game (35th in FBS). 

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Additionally, the Tar Heels were able to do it with their backup quarterback after presumed starter Max Johnson broke his leg in the season opener. Senior Jacolby Briswell stepped in and completed 58 percent of his passes for 2,458 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also added three scores on the ground.

In his first season at Chapel Hill, Lindsey coached quarterback Drake Maye en route to a stellar season. Maye threw for over 3,600 yards and 24 touchdowns before being drafted third overall in the NFL Draft.

For the past two years, the Tar Heels have had one of the best rushing attacks in the country. Running back Omarion Hampton ran for over 3,100 yards and 30 touchdowns with Lindsey calling plays. 

What about his offenses before North Carolina?

Lindsey was the offensive coordinator at UCF for just one season (2022) under head coach Gus Malzahn. The Knights were nationally ranked 26th in scoring (34.4 ppg) and 11th in total offense (480.6 ypg). UCF rushed for over 200 yards in a game nine times under Lindsey. 

Lindsey was head coach at Troy for three years before he joined UCF. The Trojans ranked 21st in the nation in passing yards per game (290.2) during his second season. In his first year, Troy gained over 500 yards in a game six times and scored at least 35 points in eight games.

Lindsey also coached at Auburn (two stints), Arizona State and Southern Miss.

How will it translate to Michigan?

The Wolverines’ offense ranked 128th in the nation this season. Even with a backup quarterback at North Carolina, Lindsey’s offense ranked 37th. At Michigan Lindsey would have No. 1 recruit and five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood at his disposal, and likely a veteran transfer. This would give the Wolverines a much higher floor in terms of quarterback production, and the potential of elite play.

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Lindsey has shown he can support a high-level running game, and he’s coached three quarterbacks to the NFL in Maye, Jarrett Stidham (Auburn) and Nick Mullens (Southern Miss). Not to mention, North Carolina’s tight end room was top five nationally in receptions, yards and touchdowns this season. 

Nothing has been finalized, but it could be a great fit for both parties. 

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