Dizon’s Disposition: Bieniemy returns to collegiate ranks with something left to prove

Eric Bieniemy still has more left in the tank

After not getting the opportunity to become the head coach of an NFL franchise this past season despite interviewing for several openings, former Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is returning to the collegiate ranks. He was the offensive coordinator at the University of Colorado from 2011-2012 and was the running backs coach at the University of California, Los Angeles from 2006-2010. Bieniemy will be the head coach of the University of Colorado Buffaloes, a program that has not won a bowl game since 2001.

Bieniemy, 53, spent the past five seasons as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator. During that time, Kansas City led the NFL in total offense three times (2018-20). The Chiefs also advanced to two Super Bowls under Bieniemy’s watch, winning Super Bowl LIV in February 2020.

Despite his success in Kansas City, Bieniemy was passed over for several head coaching positions this past season. Many believe that Bieniemy’s lack of head coaching experience is the reason why he has not been hired as a head coach in the NFL. However, Bieniemy is confident that he can be a successful head coach at the collegiate level.

“I’m excited about this opportunity to lead the University of Colorado football program,” Bieniemy said in a statement. “I believe that we can build a championship program here in Boulder.”

Bieniemy will have his work cut out for him at Colorado. The Buffaloes have not had a winning season since 2016 and have not won a bowl game since 2001. However, the Buffaloes are excited about the opportunity to have Bieniemy as their head coach.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric Bieniemy to the University of Colorado,” Colorado athletic director Rick George said in a statement. “Eric is a proven winner and a great leader. We believe that he is the right person to lead our football program to new heights.”

Bieniemy will be formally introduced as the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes on Friday, December 16.