After a banner 8-4 season, the Maryland Terrapins will not have to replace their offensive coordinator. James Franklin was reportedly a finalist for the Vanderbilt head coaching job, but the school has hired Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn instead, according to Eric Prisbell of the Washington Post.
Malzahn was reportedly a longshot to take the job, but it seems he changed his mind. Perhaps the Commodores threw Malzahn a lot of money, because it seems unclear why he would take the job otherwise. Nevertheless, Malzahn will be the new coach of the team.
Franklin seemed to emerge as Vanderbilt's second choice after Malzahn. The offensive coordinator has been with Maryland since 2008. If he is not the team's head coach by 2012, he will receive a $1 million roster bonus. However, coach Ralph Friedgen will be back next season and is also seeking a long-term extension himself.