January 30, 2012

LaPolice names Crowton offensive coordinator

THE CANADIAN PRESS

WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Blue Bombers hired Gary Crowton as their new offensive coordinator Monday.

Crowton takes over for Jamie Barresi, who was fired following the Blue Bombers’ 34-23 loss to the B.C. Lions in the Grey Cup.

“Crowton’s experiences in the spread offence are very similar to type of offences that are prevalent in the CFL,” Bombers head coach Paul LaPolice said in a statement. “He will be a great teacher for our players and his expertise at the NCAA level will be especially valuable for our younger roster.”

The 54-year-old Crowton spent last season as the offensive coordinator at the University of Maryland. He joined the Terrapins after four seasons as the offensive coordinator at LSU, helping the school capture the 2007 NCAA title.

Crowton has no previous CFL coaching experience but did serve as the Chicago Bears offensive coordinator in 1999-2000.