Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was elated that offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter is staying with the Falcons.
He interviewed for the head coaching position at Boise State, but the school hired Bryan Harsin, formerly of Arkansas State, on Wednesday.
“It’s great,” Ryan said. “I know that Boise State is special place with him being from Idaho. Selfishly, I’m happy that he’s back. He’s a great coach. Certainly, he’s made me better over the last two years and I look forward to working with him.”
Koetter, 54, joined the Falcons staff before the 2012 season after spending five seasons as Jacksonville’s offensive coordinator. He had previously served as the head coach at Arizona State (2001-06) and Boise State (1998-2000).
Last season, Ryan set single season franchise records for attempts (615), completions (422), completion percentage (68.6), yards (4,719) and touchdowns (32) with Koetter at the controls.
“I think Dirk’s a really good football coach and a really good coordinator,” Ryan said. “I learned a ton from him in the few years he’s been here. We work well together. I’m excited that he’s going to be here moving forward. I think continuity is helpful from a player’s perspective when you know what you’re getting.”
This season, the offense has sputtered about because of a porous offensive line and a rash of injuries to key players like wide receiver Julio Jones, fullback Bradie Ewing, left tackle Sam Baker, running back Steven Jackson and wide receiver Roddy White.
The Falcons are ranked 22nd in scoring (21.7 points per game), 13th in total offense (349.1 yards per game), 30th in rushing (81.2 yards per game) and sixth in passing (267.8 yards per game.)
“We can both push this offseason and try to improve,” Ryan said. “We can find ways to be better as an offense. I’m excited to work with him and try and do that.”
