LOGAN — Utah State's search for a new defensive coordinator has come to an end. Former University of Utah assistant David Kotulski is the man who'll direct traffic on that side of the ball when the Aggies join the Sun Belt Conference next season.
"Our staff was completely blown away by Coach Kotulski's enthusiasm, confidence and organizational skills," USU coach Mick Dennehy said in announcing the hiring. "I feel to a man that every single one of us felt that Dave was the right guy in every single aspect of what this job entails. Most importantly, I know that the kids will feel the same way."
Kotulski replaces Kraig Paulson, who was fired after three seasons in which USU ranked among the worst defensive teams in Division I-A football.
"I am very excited about this opportunity," said Kotulski. "Coach Dennehy has all the right pieces together from the staff and players to have an excellent program with a chance to win a championship and win a bowl game. Those are our aspirations in joining the Sun Belt Conference after the last couple of years as an independent."
Kotulski, who worked at Utah from 1978-89 before holding defensive coordinator positions at St. Mary's College in California and Bucknell, brings impressive credentials to Logan. Under his direction, the Bison have allowed an average of just 290 total yards of offense (and just 16.9 points) per game over the past eight seasons. Bucknell's defense has annually ranked in the top two in the Patriot League and in the upper tier of Division I-AA squads (finishing 22nd overall in 2002).
"I coached against Dave in the past, and he gave me fits," said USU offensive coordinator Bob Cole. "Dave is as creative in attacking offenses as anyone I have ever been around, and I am really looking forward to working with him."
Kotulski served as acting head coach at Bucknell this past season while head coach Tom Gadd took a leave of absence to battle brain cancer. The Bison finished 2-9 overall. He began his coaching career at Utah and worked under three coaches — Wayne Howard, Chuck Stobart and Jim Fassel.
At St. Mary's, Kotulski had a defensive unit that ranked third in the country by allowing only 84 yards rushing per game. He says his philosophy patterns the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.
"Anybody coming to watch us, No. 1, we are going to play very hard," added Kotulski. "We are going to do the fundamental things very well, tackling, defending the deep ball, and those things that you have to do to be successful."
Dennehy is a believer. He's confident Kotulski will instill an attitude and confidence that USU has lacked in recent years.
"He is from the old school in a lot of ways, and we will be very sound and aggressive," said Dennehy. "We will play with pride and have fun at the same time. I really believe that we will be exciting on the defensive side of the ball once again."
E-MAIL: dirk@desnews.com