Wisconsin officially makes Paul Chryst its next coach

After more than a week of speculation and flirtation, Paul Chryst is Wisconsin’s new coach.

Chryst, who had spent the past three seasons as Pitt’s head coach, was Wisconsin’s offensive coordinator before taking the Pitt job. He’s also a graduate of Wisconsin.

Chryst was 19-19 with the Panthers.

“It’s a bit overwhelming to be able to come back to a place where you grew up, went to school and coached, where you have so many ties personally and professionally,” Chryst said. “This job has everything that we, as a family, and me, personally, are looking for. The bar has been set at a high level here and it didn’t just happen. I look forward to the challenge of continuing that tradition of success.”

Chryst had two coaching stints with the Badgers, but is best known for his time from 2005-11. During that time, Chryst was responsible for orchestrating six of the school's 10-best offensive performances. During the 2011 season, the Badgers, which boasted quarterback Russell Ball and running back Montee Ball, averaged 44.1 points per game, which was sixth-best in the country, a school record and the third-best mark in the Big Ten since 1916.

Chryst replaces Gary Andersen, who left the program to become the head coach at Oregon State. Andersen was 19-7 in two season with the Badgers.

“He brings tremendous experience, both as a head coach and offensive coordinator, and knowledge of our program to the job,” Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez said. “He is one of the best offensive minds I have ever come across and I think his consistent results show that.

“Equally as important is his character. He is one of the most genuine people I’ve met and he truly cares for the student-athletes in his program. I’m very happy we were able to hire him as our head football coach.”

For more Wisconsin news, visit BadgerBlitz.com.

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Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter! Follow @YahooDrSaturday

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