USC LB coach Matt Entz to become next head coach at Fresno State
The USC Trojans will be in the market for a new linebacker coach as Matt Entz has accepted the head coach position at Fresno State according to multiple reports. Bruce Feldman of the Athletic reported the connection and On3’s Pete Nakos later confirmed. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported the two sides were working toward a 5-year deal.
Entz has been the USC linebackers coach for one year. It was a notable hiring when he came aboard because he’d spent the previous five years as the head coach at North Dakota State and was stepping into a position coach role. Entz said at the time he knew he needed some FBS recruiting experience in order to continue his career on an upward trajectory.
Entz fit very well into the new defensive staff at USC, led by coordinator D’Anton Lynn. This is a big loss after just one year. The linebackers spoke often about how much they connected with Entz and raved about his coaching ability. It will also hurt from a continuity standpoint. This staff oversaw a significant upgrade in the level of play for the USC defense, shaving more than 10 points per game off of what the Trojans allowed last season.
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There was a report yesterday that Montana State’s Brent Vigen was considered a “front runner” for the Fresno State job, but Feldman reported Entz and Fresno State met yesterday.
Keeping at least the majority of this defensive staff together is considered a priority for the Trojans. Lynn and company got positive results immediately on that side of the ball and continuity there going into the second year would be hugely beneficial.
