
The Hurricanes found their new defensive coordinator.
Minnesota defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman is in line to take the same position at Miami, according to multiple reports. Hetherman replaces Lance Guidry, who Miami fired in December.
Hetherman spent only one season as the Gophers’ defensive coordinator, but his was one of the nation’s best. Minnesota ranked ninth in the nation in points allowed per game (16.9) and fifth in the nation in yards allowed per game (285.7). The Gophers had the No. 12 rush defense and No. 9 pass defense. Pro Football Focus gave Minnesota the No. 22 defensive grade among FBS schools.
Hetherman signed an extension to stay at Minnesota that would pay him more than $1 million per year, according to the Pioneer Press. Miami will pay Minnesota a six-figure buyout, the Pioneer Press reported.
Prior to his tenure at Minnesota, Hetherman spent two seasons as Rutgers’ linebackers coach. He worked under Scarlet Knights coach Greg Schiano, for whom UM coach Mario Cristobal also once worked.
Hetherman also spent three seasons as James Madison’s defensive coordinator and three seasons as Maine’s defensive coordinator. He also has experience at several smaller schools.
Hetherman will have the chance to remake at least part of Miami’s defensive staff. Defensive line coach Joe Salave’a left UM to take the same position at his alma mater, Arizona. Cornerbacks coach Chevis Jackson is being targeted for a position on Wake Forest’s staff, according to 247Sports.
Hetherman takes over a Miami defense that struggled in 2024 and likely cost the team a chance at the playoffs. The Hurricanes finished 2024 tied for 68th in the nation in points allowed per game. They allowed 30.8 points per game in conference play, including 34 points to Virginia Tech, 38 points to Cal, 45 points to Louisville and 41 points to Syracuse.
The Hurricanes have already started addressing their defensive deficiencies, adding defensive backs Charles Brantley (Michigan State), Emmanuel Karnley (Arizona), Ethan O’Connor (Washington State) and Zechariah Poyser (Jacksonville State).
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