Chargers Interview Giff Smith for Head Coach Position: 5 Key Details About the Interim Coach

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ICARO Media Group
News
09/01/2024 22h00

The Los Angeles Chargers have officially interviewed Giff Smith for the head coach position, the team confirmed on Tuesday. Smith, who recently served as the Chargers' interim head coach for the final three games of the regular season, is no stranger to the organization, having been with the Bolts since 2016.

Here are five key details to know about Giff Smith:

1. Chargers Interim Head Coach:
Smith stepped in as the Chargers' interim head coach, showcasing his leadership skills during a challenging period of the season. Despite not securing victories, Smith's ability to rally the team and keep them unified was appreciated by players like outside linebacker Khalil Mack, who lauded Smith's efforts in bringing the team together.

2. Close Relationship with Bosa and Mack:
Smith played a significant role in the development of standout defensive players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Working closely with them before assuming the interim head coach role, Smith witnessed their success firsthand. Bosa, in particular, experienced a stellar rookie season under Smith's guidance and went on to earn NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Likewise, Mack saw immense success during his time with the Chargers, securing Pro Bowl selections and tying the franchise's single-season sack record.

3. Extensive Coaching Experience:
Smith's coaching experience extends beyond his tenure with the Chargers. Beginning as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Arkansas and later at Georgia, he transitioned to coaching wide receivers and the secondary at Georgia Southern. Smith then held positions as a defensive line coach at Tulane, Georgia Tech, and the Buffalo Bills before joining the Chargers in 2016. Notably, his time at Georgia Tech saw his team leading the nation in sacks and tackles for loss.

4. Georgia Southern Hall of Famer:
During his college days, Smith was a notable edge rusher for Georgia Southern. He achieved three-time All-American status and played a pivotal role in the team's three NCAA I-AA national championships. Setting a single-game school record for sacks and contributing to the NCAA's first-ever 15-0 record, Smith's achievements earned him induction into the Georgia Southern Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000.

5. Coaching Connections Beyond Football:
Aside from his football coaching expertise, Smith has also had the privilege of coaching accomplished wrestler Leati Joseph "Joe" Anoa'i, better known as "Roman Reigns." Anoa'i, who played as a defensive tackle at Georgia Tech during Smith's tenure, later rose to prominence in the WWE as one of their most successful and celebrated wrestlers.

The Chargers' decision to interview Giff Smith reflects the organization's recognition of his coaching acumen and his ability to develop talented players. As the search for a new head coach continues, Smith's extensive experience and track record will undoubtedly be factors to consider in the team's decision-making process.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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