Matt Canada, born on January 19, 1972, is a respected American football coach known for significant roles in diverse teams.
Notably, he served as the offensive coordinator for the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. Before his time with the Steelers, Canada demonstrated coaching prowess as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at esteemed institutions.
He held these roles at Maryland, LSU, Pittsburgh, NC State, Wisconsin, Northern Illinois, Butler, and Indiana.
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Matt Canada’s Early life and education
In his formative years, Matt embarked on his educational journey at New Palestine High School in New Palestine, Indiana.
During his tenure there, he showcased his athletic prowess by serving as the two-year starting quarterback, amassing 1,736 passing yards and guiding his team to an impressive 20–3 record.
Subsequently, Canada pursued higher education at Indiana University Bloomington, where he actively engaged with the football program, assuming the role of a student assistant during his sophomore year.
Canada’s Coaching Career
Canada’s Early Career
In the initial phase of his coaching journey, Matt gained valuable experience through early roles at Indiana, Butler, Northern Illinois, and Wisconsin.
His impactful contributions were evident when he was pivotal in guiding Northern Illinois to the MAC championship 2011.
Additionally, Canada’s coaching prowess was instrumental in steering Wisconsin towards the 2012 Big Ten Championship Game, showcasing his talent and achieving remarkable milestones within collegiate football.
Matt in N.C. State
In 2013, Matt assumed the offensive coordinator role at N.C. The state is joining forces with head coach Dave Doeren.
This partnership marked a reunion for Canada and Doeren, as they had previously collaborated at Northern Illinois in 2011.
Canada’s tenure at N.C. State was notable, evidenced by his commitment to the team’s success. Following the conclusion of the 2014 season, Canada’s dedication was underscored when he agreed to a new three-year contract with N.C. State.
Notably, this commitment came on the heels of Canada’s interview for the offensive coordinator position at Tennessee, highlighting his value and sought-after expertise in the coaching realm.
However, Canada departed N.C. despite his contributions and commitment to the program. State after the culmination of the 2015 season, the team opted for a different direction, leading to his departure from the coaching staff.
Matt in Pitt
In 2016, Matt secured the offensive coordinator position at Pitt, marking a significant step in his coaching career.
His impact was swiftly recognized, notably during the 2016 season, where his remarkable contributions led to him being honored as one of the five finalists for the prestigious Broyles Award.
This esteemed accolade is bestowed annually upon the most outstanding assistant coach in college football, underscoring Canada’s exceptional abilities and valuable role in shaping Pitt’s offensive strategies and performance during that season.
Matt Canada in LSU
On December 14, 2016, Matt Canada accepted the significant role of offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at LSU.
Serving in these capacities, he made impactful contributions throughout the 2017 season.
However, the coaching relationship between Canada and LSU saw its conclusion on January 5, 2018, as both parties agreed to part ways, signaling the end of Canada’s tenure at the university.
Matt Canada in Maryland
On January 22, 2018, Matt Canada agreed to take on the offensive coordinator role at the University of Maryland.
However, his journey with the Maryland Terrapins took an unexpected turn on August 11, 2018, when he assumed the position of interim head coach following the suspension of D.J.
Durkin, the head coach at the time, due to the tragic passing of Jordan McNair, an offensive lineman for the Maryland Terrapins.
During his interim coaching stint, a notable highlight occurred on November 17, 2018, when Maryland came close to a significant upset against the #3 ranked Ohio State, narrowly losing 52-51 in overtime.
Maryland ended the season at 5-7. They didn’t qualify for a bowl game despite their spirited performance.
Upon the appointment of Mike Locksley as the permanent head coach at Maryland, Canada was relieved of his day-to-day head coaching responsibilities.
Consequently, Scottie Montgomery became the new offensive coordinator, marking the transition in coaching leadership at the University of Maryland.
Matt Canada in Pittsburgh Steelers
On January 15, 2020, Matt Canada joined the Pittsburgh Steelers as their quarterbacks coach.
His role within the team shifted significantly on January 25, 2021, when he was promoted to offensive coordinator, taking over from Randy Fichtner.
Canada faced considerable scrutiny throughout his tenure with the Steelers, particularly regarding his playcalling decisions.
Criticism mounted as the Steelers’ offensive performance consistently ranked among the lower echelons of the league, drawing attention to Canada’s strategies and decision-making on the field.
The culmination of this scrutiny led to a significant turn of events on November 21, 2023, when the Steelers made a noteworthy decision by parting ways with Canada.
This marked a historic moment for the team, as it was the first instance of a mid-season coaching change for the Steelers since 1941, signifying the magnitude of the shift in coaching leadership.
Matt Canada’s Personal Life
Matt Canada earned a bachelor’s degree in Business. He later pursued a master’s in Sports Administration at Indiana University.
This was outside his professional commitments. Beyond his academic achievements, he shares his life with his spouse, Erin Canada.
Matt Canada as Head coaching record
During his collegiate coaching tenure at Maryland in 2018, Matt Canada led the Terrapins to a 5-7 overall record and a conference standing of 3-6 within the Big Ten Conference, securing a fifth-place position in the East division.
His coaching record at Maryland stands at five wins and seven losses for that season.
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