Hurricanes, Richt hope to create promotional appeal
Coach elevates 3 assistants, stabilizes staff as sign to recruits all is OK after Diaz exit
CORAL GABLES A day after former defensive coordinator Manny Diaz was named the head coach at Temple, Hurricanes coach Mark Richt announced a series of promotions that should keep three members of Miami’s defensive coaching Gables.
Safeties coach Ephraim Banda and outside linebackers coach Jonathan Patke were named co-defensive coordinators Friday, while defensive line coach Jess Simpson was promoted to associate head coach.
The moves were announced just as the Hurricanes — who had the nation’s staff in Coral second-ranked defense this season — were hosting a group of topnotch defensive prospects on campus ahead of the early signing period, which begins Wednesday.
“Our defensive unit is coming off an outstanding season, and Coach Banda, Coach Patke and Coach Simpson were instrumental figures to that success,” Richt said in a statement. “Coach Banda and Coach Patke are both terrific teachers, motivators and recruiters, and I’m confident the determination and energy they bring to this program every day will help them continue to thrive in their new roles.
“In addition, Coach Simpson did a remarkable job with our defensive front this season. He is an excellent teacher, motivator and technician, and I’m excited to elevate him to associate head coach. Being a longtime head coach himself,