Sources: RMU Zeroing in on New Offensive Coordinator

NEC Blitz has been informed that a name to watch in the wake of RMU Offensive Coordinator Josh Firm’s departure is former Youngstown State Offensive Coordinator Troy Rothenbuhler.

Rothenbuhler most recently held the same role at Youngstown State, where he was let go following the 2024 season after the Penguins finished 4-8. Despite the team’s struggles in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, his offense had flashes of high-level production, including a 41-point outing in a victory over then-No. 7 North Dakota, which was certainly the biggest moment for Youngstown State this past season.

Rothenbuhler’s tenure at Youngstown State included a trip to the second round of the FCS playoffs in 2023. That season, the Penguins delivered a 40-7 win over RMU's Northeast Conference rival Duquesne, though Duquesne got revenge in 2024 with a road win over YSU. During the 2023 campaign, YSU set multiple school records, including averaging a program-best 243.1 passing yards per game, surpassing a mark that had stood since 1972. The Penguins also set records for completions (270), attempts (388), and completion percentage (69.6). Additionally, YSU scored 40-plus points in six games, the most in school history, and notched 30 or more points in six consecutive contests. They led the FCS in time of possession (35:06 per game) and averaged 32 points per game, their highest output in ten years. Focusing on possessing the football could work very well with RMU's established defensive success..

Before Youngstown State, Rothenbuhler coached at Eastern Kentucky, where he initially worked with tight ends before being promoted to quarterbacks coach. His experience working with multiple position groups could be crucial as he takes over an RMU offense in transition.

The Colonials are set to replace quarterback Anthony Chiccitt, who transferred to Temple, and top wide receiver Noah Robinson, who is now at Tennessee Tech. Rothenbuhler will be tasked with developing new playmakers and revitalizing an RMU offense that will need to adjust to key departures.

His track record suggests he can make an impact. At Youngstown State, his offenses were capable of explosive performances, and RMU will be looking for that kind of firepower as it looks to take another step forward in 2025.