National Football League

Falcons hire Hill to coach o-line

Published Jan. 28, 2012 12:00 a.m. ET

Alex Marvez

A long-time college head coach is returning to the NFL ranks.

As first reported by FOXSports.com, the Atlanta Falcons confirmed they will hire Pat Hill to become the team's offensive line coach.

Hill, 60, spent the past 15 seasons at Fresno State. He guided the Bulldogs to a 112-80 record and 11 bowl appearances. Hill was fired at the end of the 2011 season after Fresno State finished 4-9.

Before heading to Fresno State, Hill served as offensive line coach for the Baltimore Ravens (1996) and Cleveland Browns (1992 to 1995).

Hill is replacing Paul Boudreau, who was fired shortly after Atlanta’s first-round playoff loss to the New York Giants.

The Falcons will also have a new offensive coordinator in 2012. Dirk Koetter is replacing Mike Mularkey, who was hired as Jacksonville’s new head coach.