Matt Canada was introduced as LSU’s new offensive coordinator at an introductory press conference Wednesday.
Canada, the former offensive coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh, is expected to receive a three-year contract worth more than $1 million per year, according to the Baton Rouge Advocate.
“I’m humbled and excited to be here,” Canada said. “I’m just a ball coach. I don’t have any fancy name or anything else. I love coaching ball. I love coaching kids.”
Canada will replace interim offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger, who will be paid a lump-sum payment of $75,000.
Canada will remain as Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator through the Panthers’ Pinstripe Bowl game versus Northwestern on Dec. 28.
He made it clear that his main goal as LSU offensive coordinator is to win games.
“The best thing we’ve done has been to maximize our strengths and minimize our weaknesses,” Canada said. “We’re going to use our players’ talents to find a way to win.”
In just one year at Pittsburgh, Canada’s offense produced the highest scoring output in school history, averaging 42.3 points per game, ranking 10^th nationally.
Canada will look to transform LSU’s offense from its traditional pro-style form into a more modern spread offense. But he stressed the importance of getting the most production out of his players.
“Our offense hasn’t changed,” Canada said. “What’s changed, if you look at the places I’ve been, has been the players. We have to utilize our talents.”