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In 2015, the Stampeders moved Mueller to offence, where he oversaw the team’s running backs. While he enjoyed learning about CFL defences under long-time co-ordinator Rich Stubler, Mueller was more comfortable on the offensive side.

“I don’t have to think as hard,” he admitted with a chuckle. “When we put in a new defence, I had to think how everything fit and how the linebackers fit into it. With offence, they show me the concept, they explain it to me and I can see it from the point of view of a guy who stood back there.”

He was able to use the knowledge he gleaned from Stubler and the Stampeders’ other defensive coaches when it came to coaching on the offensive side of the ball.

As well, Mueller had broken down film as the defensive assistant, so when he moved to offence, he recognized the tendencies of opposing defences and the concepts they employ.

But Mueller faces some changes in 2016. First off, star tailback Jon Cornish retired in the off-season and his replacement, Jerome Messam, is set to become a free agent Feb. 9.

The change in personnel could alter things for Mueller, but he plans to take the same approach this season — and he’ll use the year of experience he has under his belt.

“I learned a lot from the (running backs) last year, just dealing with them and learning what they’re looking at,” Mueller said. “I had never run the ball or looked at holes, so I really enjoyed learning not only from the coaches but the guys and what takes them certain places.