Filed under: Ravens, AFC North
BALTIMORE -- Former Florida Gators defensive coordinator Teryl Austin officially joined the Ravens on Friday as the team's secondary coach. Austin and Ravens head coach John Harbaugh's ties date back to the mid 80's when Harbaugh was the tight ends coach and Austin was a defensive back at the University of Pittsburgh."I have a long relationship with Teryl, going back to 1987 when I was a graduate assistant at Pitt, and he was one of our top players and team leaders," said Harbaugh Friday afternoon.
After five successful years in the NFL as a defensive backs coach for the Cardinals and Seahawks, where he helped guide both teams to the Super Bowl, Austin spent one season with the Gators in which Florida finished fourth in the country in interceptions with 22, allowed the fewest total yards in conference (SEC) games and gave up 310.8 yards per game, including 175.5 passing.
Harbaugh is happy that the 45-year old from Pennsylvania chose Baltimore and is confident that Austin can duplicate his output with the Ravens because he's a good teacher and motivator.
"He's an outstanding teacher and motivator who has been successful in both the NFL and at the college level," said Harbaugh. "His intelligence and experience will add to our defensive mix. Knowing Teryl had other opportunities, we're very happy that he decided to become a Raven. We think our players will both improve under his direction and enjoy playing for him. He has helped two teams -- the Cardinals and the Seahawks -- reach the Super Bowl. That's a good addition to our staff."
Austin looks forward to add to the current defensive foundation in Baltimore and appreciate his opportunity with the Ravens.
"This is another great opportunity to work for a class organization with outstanding coaches and players," said Austin. "I couldn't ask for anything better, and I'm excited to get to work. My goal is to do whatever I can to help the team and help the players get better.
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments
Source: http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2011/01/29/john-harbaugh-hires-teryl-austin-as-ravens-secondary-coach/
No comments:
Post a Comment