Alabama gained three new members of its coaching staff this offseason, most notably filling the offensive coordinator position with Tommy Rees and the defensive coordinator spot with Kevin Steele. But the team made another major move in acquiring former Southern Miss defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong to coach the team’s linebackers.
Armstrong is an up-and-coming coach in college football who is another bright young mind joining the Crimson Tide’s staff.
The trio was officially announced as new additions to UA, and Armstrong shared his excitement to be moving back to the state of Alabama.
“Growing up in West Alabama the opportunity to coach at The University of Alabama is a dream come true,” Armstrong said in a press release. “I have admired what Coach Saban has built in Tuscaloosa and the long history of tradition and success this program has enjoyed. I am excited to get to work as we continue the legacy of success that is synonymous with Alabama football.”
Under Armstrong, the Golden Eagles ranked third nationally in tackles for loss per game (8.3), fifth in sacks (3.38) and seventh in interceptions (17). USM was also third in fourth down conversion defense (.231) in 2022. In his first year as USM, they ranked No. 42 nationally in total defense (385.5) besting their mark by 18 spots from the season before.
His defense also ranked in the top 10 in the country in first downs allowed (No. 2), fumbles recovered (No. 4), red zone defense (No. 6) and defensive touchdowns (No. 7) while also finishing No. 15 in turnovers gained and No. 24 in passing yards allowed.
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Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
