Notre Dame Football: Tom Rees To Coach Quarterbacks

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are putting a bow on their coaching overhaul this offseason. Notre Dame announced that former Irish quarterback Tommy Rees will be coaching the position he played during his four years in South Bend from 2010-2013.

Tommy, or Tom if you prefer, joins a Notre Dame staff that was overhauled after a horrible 4-8 season. Reesus (what I prefer) replaces the departed Mike Sanford Jr. after he took over the head coaching job at Western Kentucky. Although many Irish fans had high hopes for Sanford, it did seem like DeShone Kizer took a step back this season.

The improbable former Notre Dame star had this to say about being hired:

“When I finished my playing career and graduated from Notre Dame, I wanted to do two things. First, I wanted to coach, and second, at some point in my career I hoped to get an opportunity to return and do it at my alma mater. I didn’t know when or if this opportunity might present itself, but I’m so grateful and honored that it did. I’m ready to get things rolling with this great staff and group of student-athletes.”

Technically, Tommy will be a graduate assistant until the NCAA approves the 10th coach position in April.

Rees will, of course, have Brian Kelly over his shoulder — and probably down his throat — a lot of the time. He will be instrumental in helping the development of Brandon Wimbush and the other young Notre Dame signal callers. His past history with Brian Kelly should help any communication gap between the head coach and the quarterback. The unknown is how this will all mesh with new offensive coordinator and playcaller, Chip Long.

Notre Dame is excited about the future with Wimbush, and perhaps Tommy will be able to keep the dynamic junior’s head from exploding should a mistake occur. I like the hire, and I think Rees has a lot of potential to help the program.

Reesus Saves.

Twitter @kevib47