Loeffler, Grimes introduced at Virginia Tech

AUBURN — Former Auburn offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler and offensive line coach Jeff Grimes were formally introduced at Virginia Tech on Friday.

Loeffler did not want to address his one underachieving season on the Plains.

“To talk about what happened at Auburn I think that’s unfair to the people at Auburn,” he said. “I respect them, they’re great people, there’s great administrators.

“I’m at Virginia Tech and it’s a new year. Did I learn a lot of lessons? Absolutely. Do I want to get into those lessons? No. Absolutely not. I’m at Virginia Tech and I’m excited to help this program win.”

Hokies coach Frank Beamer said he believes Loeffler is a good coach despite the horrendous statistics his offense produced last season at Auburn and “circumstances” are part of what leads to difficult times. Beamer cited Andy Reid being fired by the Philadelphia Eagles only to end up with Kansas City.

Grimes was also complimentary of Loeffler, saying he has the most football knowledge of anyone he’s ever been around.

“He and I just really have a great relationship and have spent the last year getting to know one another,” Grimes said. “I feel great about being here with him. I believe wholeheartedly in his ability as a coach, as a coordinator. And I’ve been around some great ones, but this guy has more football knowledge than anybody I’ve ever been around and is a great motivator too, so I’m really excited to be here with him.”

According to the Roanoke Times, Loeffler will earn $400,000 and Grimes will earn $265,000 at Virginia Tech and both will be eligible for $50,000 retention bonuses on Jan 1, 2015. However, Loeffler will be paid $150,000 per year through June 30, 2014 and Grimes will be paid the same through June 30 of this year because Auburn owes them the difference in their new and old salaries.

Loeffler made $500,000 and Grimes made $400,000 at Auburn.