Jim Fassel

Jim Fassel (born August 31, 1949 in Anaheim, California) was formerly the offensive coordinator for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens and former head coach of the New York Giants.

Professional Career

Fassel began his career with assistant coaching stints at Utah State University and Stanford University, working with John Elway at Stanford. He also served as head coach of the University of Utah.

Fassel has a long record of offensive success. He tutored prominent quarterbacks Phil Simms and John Elway. Prior to becoming New York Giants head coach, Fassel served as an assistant coach with the Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, New York Giants, and Oakland Raiders.

During Fassel's time as Giants head coach, his teams were known for numerous post-season runs in December and for winning big games, such as against the previously undefeated Denver Broncos in 1998. In 1997, he was named NFL coach of the year. He resurrected the career of quarterback Kerry Collins and received acclaim for his "playoff guarantee" in the 2000 season, during which he led the Giants to an improbable Super Bowl appearance.

However, his legacy as head coach for the Giants is mixed. Fassel's Giants were known for their disappointments against inferior teams in the regular season, as well as in the playoffs. During the 2003 season, injuries decimated the Giants and he was fired amidst some controversy.

Before the 2003 season, Fassel was reunited with a son, John Mathieson, who he and his wife Kitty gave up for adoption in 1969. The couple was unmarried when he was born.

Critics of Fassel have pointed to his lack of success in two seasons with the Ravens. The Ravens have been near the bottom of the league in offense for both the 2004 and 2005 season.

On October 17, 2006 it was announced that Fassel was fired from his post of Offensive Coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens.[1] It is rumored that Dennis Green will be fired as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals who may decide to have Fassell return to the team to lead them in 2007.

College Career

Fassel played quarterback at California State University, Long Beach after playing at USC in 1969. He was drafted in the 7th round by the Chicago Bears in the 1972 NFL draft.