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The search continues for Rutgers' new defensive coordinator, and today we're taking a look at Frank Spaziani. Spaz has Jersey roots, as he hails from Clark. He was a two-way player at Penn State from 1965 to 1968, but was mostly noted for his play on defense as a linebacker and defensive end. He might be most famous for tanking the Boston College program, but he actually fielded formidable defenses for the Eagles. He spent 15 years coaching for Boston College, starting in 1997 as the running backs coach.
Background
- Defensive coordinator from 1998-2008.
- From 2007-2010, Boston College never finished below 26th in total defense, finishing 5th overall in 2008 and 13th overall in 2010.
- Never finished worse than fourth in conference in total defense.
- Coached star players Mark Herzlich, Mathias Kiwanuka, Jamie Silva, and Luke Kuechly.
Spaziani has been mentioned in Kyle Flood's search for a new defensive coordinator, so this isn't just pure speculation. Overall, this doesn't seem like a bad hire on paper. Spaziani consistently had good defensive squads that were usually near the top in conference rankings. Whether it was the Big East or the ACC, Boston College had the ability to shut down the opponent. His later years as head coach look like more of an aberration, mostly due to the general wilting of the entire program. If there is one criticism, his defenses from in the late 2000s were somewhat susceptible to the pass. Besides 2008 when the Eagles finished 18th nationally, Boston College never did better than 71st in passing yards allowed. This is strange considering he was defensive backs coach for Navy and Virginia in stints dating back to the early 80s and 90s. However, he has coached some formidable secondaries, as Boston College finished 12th and 13th nationally against the pass in 2001-2002.
Spaziani has the experience to bring a sense of stability and prestige back to Rutgers. Price could be an issue. Spaz earned $1.1 million per year as BC head coach, so he'll be taking a massive pay cut to coach at RU. Of course, he's not exactly working now, so it might be worth it for him. If Flood can bring him to the banks, I think it's a good move. He's 66 years old, which might benefit Rutgers if he's not up for being a head coach again. Having Ron Prince and Frank Spaziani coordinating your plays would be a good combo entering the B1G. Might not last for long, but at least there's some name recognition.
Do you think Frank Spaziani is a good hire for defensive coordinator? If not, who do you feel is a better choice? Leave a comment below!