Washington Huskies Hire Former USC Assistant as Defensive Coordinator

University of Washington coach Steve Sarkisian announced today the hiring of former USC defensive coordinator Nick Holt to fill the same position with the Huskies. He has filled out the biggest question mark in trying to fill out a squad for the rebuilding project on Montlake. 

Holt, who has served as defensive coordinator for USC for the past three seasons after serving as the Idaho head coach for two, will most likely be taking a pay cut in return for more control over the defensive planning. While termed the defensive coordinator for USC, it is key to remember how much influence Pete Carroll has on the planning of that side of the ball.

Currently, the highest paid coach on Washington's staff is offensive line coach and offensive coordinator Jim Michalczik who gets paid $350,000 per year for three years. Holt's salary is speculated at around $500,000 a year and UW will have a hard time matching that salary, especially with a looming budget crisis hitting the state of Washington. 

Coach Sark has made some key additions to his staff but still has five assistant jobs to fill with the addition of filling out this year's recruiting staff. While much work still needs to be done, Sarkisian's work thus far has been energetic and a sharp departure from Tyrone Willingham's tenure.

Success on the field is key, especially for the rabid fan base and in terms of any money the school will need to renovate the dilapidated Husky Stadium.

\While the talent levels are somewhat in question with such a young squad, bringing in a youthful, talented, and energetic coaching staff is key. Coach Sarkisian is making the first steps in the right direction.

Originally a press conference was scheduled for today, Monday the 4th, at 3 p.m. to announce the news, but it has been pushed back until Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. All the press conferences are streamed on the Huskies website for all those that are interested.

Go Dawgs!!