Posted by: Josh Kendall on December 10, 2012

Rhett Lashlee feels like a veteran in Gus Malzahn's offense but that doesn't change the fact the 29-year-old is now one of the youngest coordinators in a BCS conference.

"I feel blessed to have been with good players on good teams and good coaches," Lashlee said after being hired by Malzahn to be Auburn's offensive coordinator. "I think it's a great opportunity. I am blessed to have it. I feel like I am more than ready for it. I am excited about it. It has happened quickly. Can't explain it other than I've been blessed."

Lashlee began learning Malzahn's offense as the quarterback at Shiloh Christian High School when Malzahn was the head coach. Last year, he served as Malzahn's offensive coordinator at Arkansas State.

"He's got the 'It' factor," Malzahn said. "The best thing about it is I know exactly what I am getting. He's got a bright future. He'll have a chance to be a head coach at this level some day."

Lashlee "probably doesn't know other offenses and that's a good thing," Malzahn said. "We want to have expertise in what we do. He knows this offense like the back of his hand. He is battle tested even though he is young."

Malzahn and Lashlee will share play-calling duties on Saturdays next fall, Malzahn said. Lashlee believe his experience playing Malzahn has been the most important part of his development, he said.

"When I am coaching quarterbacks, I can identify with them even more than most," he said. "I have done those drops; I have thrown that route. They know I have done it. It sometimes helps add some credibility."

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Josh Kendall is a staff writer for CoachingSearch.com and has covered the SEC for more than 15 years for papers such as the Athens Banner-Herald, Macon Telegraph, and The State. He’s the father of two boys who he’s hoping don’t inherit his wide receiver frame and offensive guard feet. Follow @EyeOnCoaches on twitter and send your feedback to josh@coachingsearch.com