One of the (somewhat) surprising decisions during the college football offseason was Maryland’s decision to pass on naming Matt Canada the permanent head coach and hiring Mike Locksley.

Today, that decision doesn’t seem quite as strange. At the time, though, Canada appeared to be a serious candidate for the job. During one of the most tumultuous seasons a program can endure, Canada served as the interim head coach, leading the Terrapins to a 5-7, which included a season-opening upset win over Texas.

Maryland was one two-point conversion away from upsetting Ohio State at the end of the season, as well.

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But the University of Maryland opted to go another direction. Rather than reward Canada for his efforts, the school decided to bring in a prominent recruiter, a guy with local ties and one who loves Terrapins football. If ever there was a solid replacement for Canada, Locksley was the guy.

In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Canada explained that he never really expected to get the job at Maryland, even though he interviewed for the position.

“I never thought I was going to get that job,” Canada said. “I think they made a great decision. Locks is from the area. He wanted the job. It’s what I thought would happen. They wanted a fresh start and all that.”

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A fresh start was certainly understandable for the university, which wanted to separate itself from the controversy that former head coach DJ Durkin brought to the program. It’s a decision that’s hard to argue with.

Canada would’ve liked to have his own program and lead a group that he put in position to make a bowl game a year ago, but it doesn’t sound like his expectations were too high.

Right now, Canada doesn’t have a role on a college football coaching staff, awaiting his next opportunity. With his expertise on the offensive side of the ball, it surely won’t be long before he’s back on the sideline.