BREAKING: The University of California has officially hired Michael Hutchings as the new defensive coordinator for the Bears, a decision announced by head coach Tosh Lupoi on Friday. This urgent update marks a significant shift for the Cal football program as they look to bolster their defensive strategy ahead of the upcoming season.
Hutchings arrives from the Minnesota Vikings, where he served as the safeties coach for the past two seasons. Under his guidance, the Vikings’ pass defense ranked among the best in the NFL, allowing an impressive 292.7 yards per game. His track record in coaching spans eight years, following his collegiate career at USC, where he played until 2016.
In addition to his role with the Vikings, Hutchings has held coaching positions at USC from 2018 to 2020, Oregon in 2021, and Western Kentucky in 2022. Notably, he coached Talanoa Hufanga, a rising star currently with the San Francisco 49ers, while at USC.
Cal has also announced the hiring of Da’Von Brown from Western Kentucky as the defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator. Brown played a vital role in coaching several All-Conference USA players during his tenure, including Upton Stout, a current rookie with the 49ers.
These strategic hires signal a pivotal moment for Cal’s football program as they prepare for the challenges ahead. Coach Lupoi aims to enhance the Bears’ defensive capabilities, leveraging Hutchings’ proven experience and Brown’s success in developing talent.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Cal Bears look to revitalize their defense with this new leadership. The urgency of these developments highlights the program’s commitment to excellence and competitiveness in collegiate football.
