McElwain named OC at Alabama
By Gazette News Services

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Missoula native Jim McElwain has been hired as the new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the University of Alabama football team.

McElwain was the offensive coordinator at Fresno State this past fall. Following the season, he turned down an offer from Eastern Washington to become its head coach.

He helped direct Fresno State's 40-28 win over Georgia Tech in the Humanitarian Bowl.

"Jim is a phenomenal coach and we are thrilled to have him on board," said Alabama head coach Nick Saban. "He did an outstanding job last year at Fresno State. Their improvement on offense, especially in the play of their quarterback, was tremendous. We talked to a large pool of coaches when we interviewed for this position and Jim was absolutely the best candidate we spoke to." Prior to Fresno State, McElwain was the quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders.

McElwain, a former all-state quarterback for Missoula Sentinel, has also coached at Michigan State (2003-2005), Louisville (2000-2002). He was the offensive coordinator for Montana State (1995-99).


Published on Thursday, January 31, 2008.
Last modified on 1/31/2008 at 12:30 am