Kansas Offensive Coordinator Andy Kotelnicki Set to Become Penn State Offensive Coordinator
According to a team source, Kansas offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki is expected to take on the same role at Penn State. Kotelnicki will replace Mike Yurcich, who was fired by Penn State on Nov. 12 following a 24-15 loss to Michigan.
Kotelnicki has been the offensive coordinator at Kansas since 2021, following Jayhawks coach Lance Leipold from Buffalo and Wisconsin-Whitewater. Under Kotelnicki’s leadership, Kansas ranks No. 8 in the FBS in yards per play this season, a significant improvement from their No. 104 ranking in 2021.
Last year, in Kotelnicki’s second season, the Jayhawks improved to No. 6 in yards per play and played in a bowl game for the first time since 2008. Despite injury problems, including the loss of star QB Jalon Daniels for much of the season, the Jayhawks have still managed to rank No. 8 in the nation, averaging 7.01 yards per play and achieving an 8-4 record, guaranteeing their first winning season since 2008.
Penn State coach James Franklin expressed his desire to hire someone who could serve as the head coach of the offense. Kotelnicki’s extensive experience as an offensive coordinator, beginning at Division III Wisconsin-River Falls, made him an ideal candidate for the position. Franklin emphasized the importance of success on third downs, opening drives, and explosive plays when considering potential hires for the position.
Kotelnicki’s experience in working with quarterback Jalon Daniels likely played a role in Franklin’s decision to bring him on board. Franklin had previously stated that hiring someone who could maximize the strengths of junior quarterback Drew Allar would be a key focus in the hiring process.
Penn State’s offense has struggled to generate explosive plays, ranking 117th in the FBS with just 40 plays of 20-plus yards. Kotelnicki’s success in this area at Kansas likely factored into Franklin’s decision to bring him in as the new offensive coordinator.
Kotelnicki’s arrival at Penn State brings a wealth of experience and success in offensive coordination, and fans are eager to see how he will contribute to the team’s success in the future.