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Kentucky football fans know exactly what Bucs fans are going through

Liam Coen is bound to bounce around every year it seems. He is now headed for his 6th team in 6 years.

ByDrew Holbrook|
Sep 8, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) talks with offensive coordinator Liam Coen against the Washington Commanders during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
Sep 8, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) talks with offensive coordinator Liam Coen against the Washington Commanders during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Liam Coen's coaching journey has been nothing short of a whirlwind, leaving fans and players alike grappling with the excitement of his arrivals and the disappointment of his departures. His recent decision to leave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a standout season to become the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars adds yet another chapter to his dynamic career. Mike Florio breaks down the move from an NFL perspective here

A Rollercoaster Coaching Timeline Leads to the Jags

Coen's coaching career has been marked by brief yet impactful tenures:

University of Kentucky (2021): As the offensive coordinator, Coen transformed the Wildcats' offense, leading them to average 32.3 points per game and 452.2 yards per game, ranking fifth and eighth in the SEC, respectively. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Los Angeles Rams (2022): He returned to the NFL to serve as the Rams' offensive coordinator, contributing to their offensive strategies, but not calling their plays.

University of Kentucky (2023): Coen made a second stint with the Wildcats, aiming to replicate his previous success. Was unable to acheieve the same heights as his first tenure and left following the season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2024): In his first season as offensive coordinator, Coen revitalized the Bucs' offense, leading them to a 10-7 record and a playoff berth. The team ranked fourth in points per game (29.5) and third in total yards per game (399.6). Reuters

The Jaguars Beckon

Just as Buccaneers fans were settling into the excitement of a rejuvenated offense, news broke that Coen would be departing to take the head coaching position with the Jacksonville Jaguars. This move came after the Jaguars parted ways with general manager Trent Baalke, a development that seemingly influenced Coen's decision. Because just a few days prior he removed his name from contention which you can read about here

The Emotional Toll

For fans and players, Coen's departures are akin to a favorite song ending just as it's getting good. The anticipation of continued success is abruptly replaced with the uncertainty of what's next. While his career moves are understandable in the high-stakes world of football coaching, they leave a palpable void for those who have rallied behind his leadership.

Looking Ahead

As Coen embarks on his new journey with the Jaguars, both Kentucky Wildcats and Tampa Bay Buccaneers supporters are left to reflect on the fleeting yet impactful moments of his tenure. The challenge now lies in finding a successor who can build upon the foundation Coen established and lead their teams to sustained success. For Kentucky that is Bush Hamdan, for Tampa that remains to be seen.

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