A new report indicates that the unusual decision by the Miami Dolphins to name two coaches as co-offensive coordinators resulted in some surprise among the team’s staff.
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald explored the hiring of George Godsey and Eric Studesville to the offensive coordinator position and noted that some second-guessing of the idea was evident.
“One Dolphins staffer said there was surprise internally about Flores’ decision, and some wonder whether appointing one person would have been the preferable approach,” Jackson wrote.
“Flores assuredly will explain the mechanics of how this will work to his staff, but it’s unclear if he will ever offer details publicly.
“Days after the news was leaked to ESPN and NFL Network at the exact same time Tuesday, the Dolphins still haven’t announced or confirmed the co-coordinator decision.”
Jackson indicated that there are few past examples of the idea in practice, with those having the head coach doing the play-calling, something that Flores won’t be doing.
One of the dangers in having dual coordinators is the possibility that communications issues could develop or conflicts between the coordinators could cause friction.
The position needed to be filled after the departure of Chan Gailey last month, with Godsey and Studesville now having the important role of broadening the game of Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
In his first season, Tagovailoa primarily ran a conservative offense. That was due in part to his rookie status and the development that’s required of that vital position.
If the Dolphins are able to take the next step in 2021 and reach the postseason, the concern over Flores’ decision will presumably be forgotten. If it flops, another offensive coordinator might be required in 2022.
