Planning for future coaching transition.

[ExxHusker]

Just read that Ohio St may be in mix for Todd Orlando. Luke Fickel leaving. Texas going after him hard. My question is are we thinking long term enough? Even if we keep Banker why not a guy like Orlando to build our bench (co-DC), new blood/ideas. Great recruiter, defensive genius as far as I can tell (shut down Louisville and Florida St), HC potential. Knows how to generate serious heat pass rush and develop run stoppers like freshman Ed Oliver.

We have DL being groomed on offense. Need the equivalent on defense. I get the great recruiter thing but TO would seem like a much more long term bedrock hire. #MNGA

 

[hddude55]

There are many threads that probably shouldn't see the light of day.

 

[ExxHusker]

We need a less passive defense. Another DB coach for recruiting seems and indirect way to get it. Heck, a second OL coach (like TO had) gets more to a need than DB coach. The DB's weren't the problem this year.

 

[GretnaShawn]

We need a less passive defense. Another DB coach for recruiting seems and indirect way to get it. Heck, a second OL coach (like TO had) gets more to a need than DB coach. The DB's weren't the problem this year.

The biggest reason the DB coach Williams was hired wasn't his coaching. And that is not a statement on his coaching ability.

 

[saluno22]

The biggest reason the DB coach Williams was hired wasn't his coaching. And that is not a statement on his coaching ability.

Was going to post the same thing and then saw your post.

With Donte Williams' recruiting reputation, Riley would be foolish not to hire him if he's available (or willing to be available). I see it like a generational/can't miss prospect at the top of the draft board. Riley essentially traded into position to get this guy onto the staff. I don't know anything about his aptitude as a position coach, but if he's bringing in elite talent for the benefit of the entire team, you need him on staff and make it work.

We struggled on the lines this year, and the safe staff hire that wouldn't receive criticism would have been a 2nd OL coach or another DL coach and split those duties between DT and DE. He's showing confidence in Parella and Cav, and finding a way you recruit in a manner that is necessary to get to the level we want to be. If Donte Williams brings in difference makers for Parella and Cav to mold, there are exciting times ahead. If our lines continue to struggle, then this staff isn't going to make it. This staff move by Riley is a gamble. I like the move, but its dividends won't be realized for a couple years.