BYU Cougars

No bucking Bronco: Mendenhall to retain defensive play-calling duties

Published Jun. 28, 2015 7:29 p.m. ET

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Last season the BYU defense came under so much fire that head football coach Bronco Mendenhall took over play-calling duties in January.

It looks like that will not change anytime soon, as Mendenhall announced he will retain play-calling responsibility for the foreseeable future during the team's media day.

"I am not going to say how long it will be, but I think it gives our team the best chance to win this year," Mendenhall said.

Nick Howell, who did not attend media day, will remain the team's defensive coordinator, but Mendenhall will make the calls.

The move will subtract the amount of time Mendenhall will spend with the offense, but it is a sacrifice he feels will better the team.

"So I understand the tradeoff [of not spending as much time with the offense as the defense]," Mendenhall said. "I also understand what has traditionally been the result if I work with the defense. I think that adds a level of confidence and security to the program."

Last season the Cougars defense ranked 56th in the nation in yards allowed per game (391.50) and 76th in the country in scoring defense (27.5 ppg).

(h/t Salt Lake Tribune)