What might have initially looked like is quickly becoming one of the ’ most intriguing strengths. Chargers head coach sees far more than an offensive mastermind in new coordinator Mike McDaniel. In fact, Harbaugh sees a younger version of himself.
Asked whether he had worked with anyone quite like McDaniel, Harbaugh offered : “Honestly? He reminds me of a young Jimmy Harbaugh. Well, Jim, I was Jim at that point. I love the confidence that he has. Sometimes it’s like looking in the mirror and I just kind of smile.”
Harbaugh even drew a humorous line when asked whether McDaniel’s distinctive designer-heavy sideline wardrobe reminded him of his own evolution, answering with a definitive “No.”
Watch sports LIVE with
Behind the laughs, however, sits a potentially powerful coaching partnership. Harbaugh’s physical, demanding philosophy meshes with McDaniel’s creative offensive vision. That should give star QB Justin Herbert a system built around movement, spacing and maximizing his arm talent.
Harbaugh enters his third season with Los Angeles. He faces increased pressure to turn regular-season consistency into postseason success. The Chargers have posted consecutive 11-win campaigns under him. However, both ended with first-round Wild Card Round defeats. His response was a significant coaching overhaul. The brought McDaniel aboard while elevating Chris O’Leary to defensive coordinator. Now, they have a reworked offensive line, a healthy Herbert, and Harbaugh’s uncompromising standard driving the team. As such, the Chargers believe they have the pieces to challenge the AFC’s elite. For Harbaugh, the partnership with McDaniel could be the missing ingredient. The mirror he sees may ultimately reflect a contender ready to break through.
Related:
Related:
