McAdoo goes from OC to coach as N.Y. Giants replace Coughlin

Associated Press

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.

Ben McAdoo needed two seasons to fix the New York Giants offense.

His job now is to get the franchise back on track.

The Giants confirmed on Thursday that the 38-year-old McAdoo has been hired to replace Tom Coughlin, who stepped down a little more than a week ago after 12 seasons.

McAdoo faces a big challenge. After winning their second Super Bowl under Coughlin, the Giants have missed the playoffs the past four seasons. They have posted losing records the past three seasons, going 6-10 the past two.

“We were all impressed with his energy, his enthusiasm, his vision and his desire,” Giants president and co-owner John Mara said.

“Ben has been preparing for this opportunity since he started coaching, and he has earned his stripes every step of the way. Some have suggested he may not be ready, and as I said last week, we want a coach who feels like he has something to prove.”

McAdoo, who has been the Giants offensive coordinator the past two seasons, will be introduced at a news conference on Friday morning.

“I have been preparing for this moment my entire professional life, and without the guidance and support of many people, I would not be here right now,” McAdoo said.

McAdoo’s offense has been one of the few bright spots for the team the past two years.

Under his leadership, Eli Manning threw 65 touchdowns and 28 interceptions.

The Giants’ 420 points this past season was the fifth-highest total in franchise history, and their 5,952 net yards was the third-highest total. They set franchise records for pass attempts (623), completions (392), and their 36 touchdown passes were the second-highest total in Giants’ history.

“I’m excited for the Giants organization and for the team. I think Coach McAdoo is a great coach, a great teacher, and will be a great leader of this team,” said Manning, who voiced his support for McAdoo after the season.

“I’m excited to continue to work with him and grow within this offense, and get this organization back where it needs to be.”

McAdoo interviewed with Mara and general manager Jerry Reese a week ago Tuesday. They met again Wednesday, when he also spoke with team chairman Steve Tisch and treasurer Jonathan Tisch.

Mara and Reese interviewed five other candidates before choosing McAdoo, the NFL’s second-youngest coach. The Dolphins’ Adam Gase is 37.