Georgia hires Rams' Schottenheimer as offensive coordinator

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) - Brian Schottenheimer left the St. Louis Rams on Wednesday to move back to the college ranks as Georgia's offensive coordinator.

Georgia coach Mark Richt announced Schottenheimer also will coach the Bulldogs' quarterbacks.

Schottenheimer, 41, was the Rams' offensive coordinator the past three seasons after heading the New York Jets' offense from 2006-11. He previously served as quarterbacks coach for the San Diego Chargers and Washington Redskins.

Before moving to the NFL, Schottenheimer was an assistant coach with Southern Cal and Syracuse. He coached for his father, Marty Schottenheimer, with the Redskins and Chiefs.

Rams coach Jeff Fisher said after the 6-10 season he expected all his assistants, including Schottenheimer, to return in 2015.

"I think Brian is an outstanding play-caller, very organized and an excellent teacher," Fisher said. "You can't put the record on his shoulders. That would be very, very unfair."

Rams general manager Les Snead said the talks between Georgia and Schottenheimer developed the "last few days."

"We've been aware of the situation for a little bit," Snead said.

Richt said Schottenheimer's NFL experience made him a good choice for Georgia's pro-style offense and will help players develop for the NFL.

"His NFL experience will be a perfect fit for how we like to play offensive football here at Georgia," Richt said. "He'll be excellent in developing our players in both the running and passing games which will benefit them while they are at Georgia and for their future."

Schottenheimer replaced Mike Bobo, who last month was hired as the Colorado State coach.

Schottenheimer was a Florida quarterback from 1994-96.

"I'm thrilled to be part of an elite program with such national tradition and a great staff already in place," Schottenheimer said in a statement released by Georgia. "I look forward to working with young men and being a positive and significant influence on their lives as we develop them athletically, academically, and socially."