Texas Longhorns Football: Bryan Harsin and Major Applewhite to Share OC Duties

According to multiple sources, the Texas Longhorns have hired former Boise State offensive coordinator to join Mack Brown's coaching staff and share the offensive coordinator duties with current Longhorn running backs' coach, Major Applewhite.

Bryan Harsin arrived in Austin on Thursday afternoon, presumably to interview for the offensive coordinator job, but it is just as possible that Harsin's interview actually took place earlier in the offseason and he was indeed in town to accept Texas' offer to join the coaching staff.

According to reports, Harsin will be responsible for play-calling, while Applewhite will have more responsibility for scouting and research of opposing defenses to help the duo best exploit potential opportunities.

This should be an interesting arrangement for two very young and talented coaches. With their combined experience as collegiate quarterbacks and as offensive coordinators for major programs, Harsin and Applewhite will bring a great deal of knowledge to the table for Mack Brown's offense.

It is a sure thing that Texas fans will see a wider range and creativity of plays called than seen previously under Greg Davis' leadership.

Harsin has been at the helm of a wide-open, pro-style offense at Boise over the past few seasons, which, if Texas chooses to implement, would be a huge departure from Davis' dependence on the run and quick screens and out routes.

If Garrett Gilbert can learn the position under Harsin's tutelage and achieve his potential quickly, the Longhorns could quickly return to their high-octane, high-scoring history.

On the other hand, how will the Co-OC tag play on the mind of Major Applewhite? Is this decision an admission by Mack Brown that Applewhite is not ready for the spotlight as one of Texas' top coaches? Will Applewhite bolt Austin as soon as a better opportunity arises, similar to Will Muschamp?

The 2011 coaching staff is finally almost resolved. Texas now turns to spring practice as the next step in rebuilding a program which definitely has some work to be done.