Bisaccia named assistant head coach

SAN DIEGO – The Chargers named Rich Bisaccia assistant head coach Thursday, adding to his duties as special teams coach.

“Rich was a great addition to our staff a year ago and made a real impact on our team last season,” Head Coach Norv Turner said. “He has a lot to offer our team and I’ll be leaning on his years of experience in all areas of our football team.”

The 10-year NFL veteran made a positive impact on the Chargers’ special teams units in 2011, his first season on Turner’s staff. Bisaccia has a reputation among players for his hands-on style, attention to detail and unique situational drills. He helped develop young special teams players like Richard Goodman (fourth in the NFL in kickoff returns), Darrell Stuckey and Andrew Gachkar (12 special teams tackles each, tied for the team lead), and second-year long snapper Mike Windt.

Kicker Nick Novak, brought in to replace an injured Nate Kaeding, made 27 of 34 field goals and set two team records under Bisaccia’s watch, while Mike Scifres averaged a career high 47.5 yards per punt, none of which opposing players blocked or deflected (which happened five times in 2010).

The kickoff coverage unit took a leap forward, improving from 26^th to 11^th in the NFL. The Chargers also improved its punt coverage, allowing opponents 5.7 yards less per return and improving Scifres’ net average by nearly nine yards.

Goodman’s 105-yard kickoff return for a touchdown Jan. 1 at Oakland was a team record. The team also executed two successful onside kicks and a fake punt.

Bisaccia was Tampa Bay's special teams coach from 2002-10, adding the title of associate head coach for the 2008-10 seasons. He helped guide the Buccaneers to a win in Super Bowl XXXVII under Head Coach Jon Gruden.