Cameron Norcross: The New Face Of Griz Offensive Line Coaching

The latest Meet the Griz transitions to the gridiron and highlights new offensive line coach Cameron Norcross.

When you open the dictionary to find the definition of "Offensive Line Coach," a picture of Coach Norcross shows up.

Coach Norcross. Credit: University of Montana Athletics

When God created offensive line coaches, he created Cameron Norcross.

I see Coach Norcross and say, "Hell yeah, that guy knows ball."

Coach Cameron Norcross's philosophy

Coach Norcross backs up the claim. When on the recruiting trail, I asked Coach Norcross how he knows an offensive lineman is worth pursuing.

"At the start of it, we want big frames that can move well," Norcross explained what he's looking for on the recruiting trail.

It's not just about the appearance, though. Norcross wants to do his research.

"At the end of the day, our program, my philosophy since I started this, is through relationships with coaches and finding out who the kids are first. I think that's gonna tell us a lot because of what we're going to ask them to do and the culture we're trying to build and the culture of Montana Football."

Coach Cameron Norcross hard at work. Credit: University of Montana Athletics

Another guy who is big on Montana Football is Head Coach Bobby Hauck.

Norcross was an OL coach for his alma mater Nevada and fellow Mountain West team Fresno State, during Hauck's time with UNLV.

Norcross's teams had the upper hand, going 3-1 against Hauck's UNLV Rebels.

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"First of all, when I was at Nevada, we were indoctrinated to hate everyone, and so, when he coaches UNLV, I didn't like Coach Hauck," said Norcross.

The hate wore off as Norcross learned who Hauck was.

"God dang, this is a guy I'd like to be around. He's always energetic, he's got a great personality, he loves football, he loves being around people, he loves doing it for the right reasons," expressed Norcross.

Norcross coaching at UNLV during his one season there. Credit: UNLV Photo Services

For the full conversation with Coach Norcross, check out the Daily Drive with Ace Sauerwein podcast below.

Rapid fire with Coach Norcross

Q: Have you been to Montana before taking the Griz OL Coach Job?
A: I visited Yellowstone when I was 10-12. Other than that, the only other place, and I hate to say it, I flew into Bozeman to do a clinic.

Q: In your short time, have you found a go-to restaurant?
A: I've been fortunate to go to the Depot, Ciao Mambo. I love Mexican food and I've been to Plaza Altaca, but you can't beat the Mo Club. I've been back there 3-4 times.