Notre Dame football: Tommy Rees leaving for Alabama?

First reported by Chris Low of ESPN, Notre Dame football offensive coordinator Tommy Rees is supposedly Alabama’s top target for their open OC position. While it’s surprising, to say the least, even with relatively weak quarterback and wide receiver units, Rees did a solid job this past season.

After striking out on numerous other top targets, Nick Saban has reportedly turned his attention to Tommy Rees. My question is, would Rees leave his alma mater for a lateral move? Of course, you can argue that a coaching job at Alabama could propel you toward a head coaching position easier than with Notre Dame football. That said, it’s still a lateral move by definition.

While little has changed for the better regarding on-field production with Rees as the sole signal caller, the quarterback room is much different. Last season the Irish started the season with Tyler Buchner, Drew Pyne, and Steve Angeli as legitimate quarterback options. This year, they’ll enter the season with a room of Sam Hartman, Tyler Buchner, Steve Angeli, and Kenny Minchey.

The wide receiver room should also see quite the boost this offseason. While much of that can be accredited to Chansi Stuckey and his hard work on the recruiting trail, Rees has undoubtedly played a significant role. Adding four young receivers to the room and veteran Kaleb Smith from Virginia Tech, the offense is poised to take a big step forward next season. With or without Rees, I expect big things from the offense next year.

Just last year, it was reported that Rees turned down the offensive coordinator position at LSU with Brian Kelly. Would he quickly accept a job in the SEC to work with rival Alabama and Nick Saban? It would be hard to blame him if he wanted to make such a move; time will tell where coach Rees ends up.