Braxton Gregory
Sports Editor
Idaho State University has hired Coach Grant Duff as its new defensive coordinator, a move to strengthen the Bengals’ defense after a tough 2024 season. Coach Duff, who spent 11 seasons at Weber State University, was a key contributor to the Wildcats’ success, helping them secure four conference titles and six FCS playoff appearances, including a semifinal run in 2019.
Coach Duff’s defenses at Weber State were consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Idaho State Director of Athletics Pauline Thiros emphasized his experience and energy as critical reasons for hiring.
“Coach Duff is a proven winner with a deep background in defensive coaching,” said Thiros. “He’s been mentored by some of the best defensive coaches in the country and has led one of the top defenses in the Big Sky. His expertise and infectious energy will have an immediate impact on our program.”
Following Idaho State’s defensive struggles in 2024, Thiros believes Coach Duff’s fresh approach will help turn things around.
“Coach Duff has the experience and adaptability we need to improve our defense,” Thiros said. “His track record speaks for itself, and we’re excited for him to help improve our schemes and contribute to our recruiting efforts. He has out-recruited ISU in Idaho and Utah for years, and we expect him to help us win those recruiting battles.”
Coach Duff is expected to implement a 4-3 defensive scheme known for its balance and ability to defend both the run and the pass. The 4-3 has been a cornerstone of successful defenses in college football, including the 2001 Miami Hurricanes and the Dallas Cowboys in the 1990s. However, Coach Duff has stressed the importance of adaptability.
“That system is the foundation of my beliefs,” Coach Duff said in an interview with the Idaho State Journal (reported by Brad Bugger). “The scheme is tertiary. Some years, you have a lot of big guys up front and play mostly a four-man front. Other years, you may play a three-man front to get your best 11 guys on the field.”
Coach Duff’s experience with hybrid defensive schemes, such as the 4-2-5, shows his ability to adjust his strategy based on personnel.
Thiros also noted that Coach Duff’s leadership aligns with the culture head coach Cody Hawkins is building at Idaho State.
“Coach Duff shares our values and aligns with the culture Coach Hawkins has worked hard to create over the past two years,” stated Thiros. “He will immerse himself in the community and bring a positive, hardworking attitude to the program. He’s the perfect fit for what we need to elevate this program.”
Coach Hawkins echoed similar sentiments in an interview with the Idaho State Journal, noting the significance of Coach Duff’s local expertise and championship experience.
“I wanted to hire Grant because of his expertise in our local footprint and his championship pedigree on the defensive side of the football,” Hawkins said. “He knows what it takes to succeed in our conference and will inspire our guys from the second he gets here.”
Coach Duff is already making an impact by building his staff, with the recent hire of Ricky Aliifua as the defensive line coach. Aliifua, a former defensive standout, brings valuable experience to the coaching staff and will work alongside Coach Duff to strengthen the defensive front.
Duff’s leadership will be crucial in filling the void left by approximately 30 seniors and building a defense capable of competing at a high level.
With Coach Duff’s experience, adaptability, and ability to recruit, Idaho State football is poised for an exciting future under head coach Cody Hawkins.
