Wisconsin Taps Kansas Offensive Coordinator Jeff Grimes for Key Role
The Wisconsin Badgers have tapped Kansas Jayhawks offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes to lead their offense, according to sources. The deal isn’t finalized yet, but both sides are in talks and those conversations are expected to heat up soon.
Sources; Wisconsin is targeting Kansas OC Jeff Grimes as the school’s new offensive coordinator. A deal is not complete, but the sides are talking and those talks are expected to intensity in the near future.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 6, 2024
Grimes steps into the role vacated by former offensive coordinator Phil Longo, who was let go after just 23 games. This marks the second coordinator from the Jayhawks’ staff to move on to the Big Ten.
Grimes will bring a fresh perspective to the Badgers’ offense, having previously crafted a strong attack at Kansas in 2024. His team ranked 47th nationally with an impressive 410.9 yards per game, dominating on the ground with 201.3 rushing yards per game, placing them 16th in the country.
Prior to his time at Kansas, Grimes spent three seasons at Baylor, where he made name for himself by being a finalist for the prestigious Broyles Award in his first year. Despite this early success, he was ultimately dismissed by head coach Dave Aranda after the 2023 season.
Extensive Background and Experience
A seasoned coach with a career spanning back to 1995, Grimes boasts a wealth of experience. Before joining Kansas and Baylor, he honed his skills at institutions like BYU (twice), LSU, Virginia Tech, Auburn, Colorado, Arizona State, Hardin-Simmons, Texas A&M, and Rice.
Grimes brings a strong offensive line background, having coached the position exclusively up through 2017. His first stint as an offensive coordinator came at BYU, and this appointment marks his fourth coordinator job. With the transfer portal window opening soon, Grimes fills a critical gap on
Wisconsin’s coaching staff and provides much-needed stability for the team’s future.
What specific offensive strategies or plays has Jeff Grimes implemented at Kansas that make him an attractive candidate for Wisconsin?
## Wisconsin Looks to Kansas for Offensive Spark
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. The Wisconsin Badgers are looking to shake things up offensively after a disappointing season. We’re joined now by college football analyst, Alex Reed, to discuss the latest news surrounding their coaching search. Alex Reed, thanks for joining us.
**Alex Reed:** It’s great to be here.
**Host:** Let’s jump right in. Reports are swirling that Wisconsin is targeting Kansas Offensive Coordinator Jeff Grimes for their vacant position. What can you tell us about Grimes and his potential fit in Madison?
**Alex Reed:** Well, Grimes has built a reputation for developing creative and explosive offenses. His work at Kansas, particularly this past season [[1](https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/general/breaking-wisconsin-to-hire-kansas-oc-jeff-grimes-as-the-school-s-next-offensive-coordinator/ar-AA1vpIrC)], has definitely put him on the map.
**Host:** Wisconsin has traditionally been known for a more run-heavy, ground-and-pound style. How do you see Grimes’s offensive philosophy meshing with the Badgers’ identity?
**Alex Reed:** That’s a great question. Grimes will likely bring a more balanced approach to Wisconsin. While he certainly isn’t afraid to run the ball, he’s also shown a willingness to open up the passing game and utilize play-action effectively. This could be a refreshing change for the Badgers and allow them to be less predictable on offense.
**Host:** This is still in the early stages, but how significant would it be for Wisconsin to land Grimes?
**Alex Reed:** It would be a major coup for the Badgers. Grimes is a rising star in the coaching ranks and landing him would send a clear message that Wisconsin is serious about taking their offense to the next level.
**Host:** Alex Reed, thanks for sharing your expertise with us. We’ll be following this story closely as it develops.
