McDaniels new OC at Rutgers, Friedgen may consult

Rutgers may be losing Ralph Friedgen as their offensive coordinator but the man known as ‘The Fridge’ may not be leaving the program entirely. And in his place, Ben McDaniels will step in as offensive coordinator.

Metro New York has learned that McDaniels, formerly the team’s wide receiver coach, will be named as the program’s new offensive coordinator, becoming part of Friedgen’s coaching tree. McDaniels joined the program last year and has had two stints in the NFL as well as a season as Columbia’s offensive coordinator.

His brother Josh is the offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots.

But with the promotion of Ben to offensive coordinator, it doesn’t mean that his mentor is out of the picture. Metro can also report that Friedgen, while leaving his current job due to health reasons, may stay involved with the program as a consultant. Despite being just one season with the Scarlet Knights, Friedgen helped turn a struggling offense into one that spearheaded an 8-5 program and a bowl win over North Carolina.

On Monday, Metro was first to report that Friedgen was leaving as offensive coordinator.

In addition to McDaniels, Metro has learned that that two former Rutgers players -defensive lineman Scott Vallone who will be named as graduate assistant and former quarterback Mike McMahon as student assistant – will help augment the coaching staff.

Both former players boast NFL experience.