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Dave Christensen hired as new OC, Erickson demoted to running backs

Utah football will have a new offensive coordinator, as the program announced the hiring of former Wyoming head coach Dave Christensen.

Otto Kitsinger III

So, Dave Christensen is now Utah's offensive coordinator. The program announced his hiring in a press release this afternoon. He replaces Dennis Erickson, who, apparently, has been demoted to running backs coach. Brian Johnson has also been demoted, and will now entirely focus on quarterbacks.

Christensen is Utah's seventh offensive coordinator in as many years - following a list that includes Andy Ludwig, Dave Schramm, Aaron Roderick, Norm Chow, Brian Johnson, and, of course, Erickson. There is no indication what this move will mean for Erickson, the 66 year former coach of Arizona State, Oregon State, Miami and two NFL teams.

Honestly, I didn't see this move coming. I think Christensen, who had a stint as Missouri's offensive coordinator before becoming the head coach of the Cowboys, is a good coordinator, and I like the idea of doing away with 'co-coordinators' - but the uncertainty of Erickson leaves me questioning this move.

I would be surprised if he stays on, especially since Lya Wodraska of the Salt Lake Tribune says Erickson was surprised by the announcement - leading me to believe he didn't necessarily consent to it.

Thoughts?