Following a third-straight 10-win season, Dick Corbett Head Football Coach Brian Kelly has announced his intention to make a pair of promotions on the offensive side of the ball. Tom Rees, current quarterbacks coach and former record-setting Irish signal-caller, will be named the John and Bobbie Arlotta offensive coordinator. Additionally, after a season as running backs coach, Lance Taylor will be elevated to the run game coordinator position.

“After an extensive national search, I’m proud to name Tom Rees our next offensive coordinator,” said Kelly. “Tom’s ability to connect with our players and staff and accepting and embracing the incredible opportunity in being the offensive coordinator at Notre Dame made him the right choice. While Tom’s leadership ability and knowledge of the game was evident, it was his humble approach to his own development and desire to continue to grow and learn that were also key factors that set him apart in a talented pool of candidates.”

Since his return to his alma mater as the Bob and Leslie Mohr Family Quarterbacks Coach, Rees has helped the Irish compile a 33-6 record and the most wins (33) in program history in a three-year span (tying 1988-1990 seasons).

In three seasons overseeing the quarterbacks, Rees has seen his pupils set numerous program records, including season completion percentage (68.2% – Ian Book), rushing yards in a game by a quarterback (207 – Brandon Wimbush) and (5 – Ian Book). Furthermore, Book and Oklahoma Heisman finalist Jalen Hurts were the only two quarterbacks in the country in 2019 to account for 500 rushing yards, 3,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns in the regular season.

Taylor’s promotion as run game coordinator comes after a season in which the Irish averaged their fourth-highest yards per carry (4.9) in the last 25 years. Senior RB Tony Jones Jr. set a school record for longest rush by an Irish player in a bowl game, rumbling 84 yards for a score against Iowa State in the Camping World Bowl.

“Lance’s ability to gain consensus within the staff by implementing a running game plan that fits our personnel and is tactically and technically sound makes him a great fit for this position.” Kelly stated.

The promotions are effective at the conclusion of the University’s standard employment process.