Oregon formally introduces Mark Helfrich as Chip Kelly’s replacement
Although Mark Helfrich was reportedly chosen by Oregon to replace Chip Kelly well before Kelly actually left, the Ducks made it official and introduced Helfrich as their new head coach on Sunday.
Helfrich, who was promoted from offensive coordinator, will have a hard time replacing Kelly, who built Oregon into a regular national title contender, but he has the same mentality that helped make Kelly so good.
"Going forward, we will attack in all phases," Helfrich said, the Register-Guard's Rob Moseley reported.
Even though there was a report before the Fiesta Bowl that Helfrich had already been picked, Oregon didn't just immediately elevate him. Moseley reported that Oregon athletic director Rob Mullens interviewed five people in person and others on the phone, so apparently he looked into all options. But in the end, he settled on Helfrich.
The continuity should help the Ducks, who should be in the mix for a national title again. Helfrich, who spent three seasons as Colorado's offensive coordinator before coming to Oregon, spent three years devising the Ducks' offense alongside Kelly. Kelly is known as an offensive mastermind, but the Ducks have to be hopeful Helfrich can replicate the attack.
One thing is for certain: This is an opportunity of a lifetime for Helfrich.
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