James Willis ... UL Defensive Coordinator

[Turbine]

It's amazing what armchair DC fans see compared to what actual coaches see. I was one of many here who believed Willis' defensive schemes and strategies were terrible last year. I was one of many who hoped Hud would be looking for another DC this offseason. You can imagine my surprise to see the news that he was poached by an elite football program. Shows how little we all know sometimes.

The dude can recruit and sell, who knew?

[CajunSaint08]

Just heard on ESPN1420 that James Willis is now staying.

[BrockMeaux]

This article tells me one thing, the dude didn't want to sell out. He sees something real special here. He understands what Hud has been proclaiming for the past 4 years. We have the opportunity to do something memorable. Thanks for staying coach. I have a feeling you will not regret this decision

I'm glad he's staying as well. Looking at it from a practical point of view, it's tough to pass up a $300,000 RAISE. But if he wants to be a head coach again, two things: 1) it's easier to get there as a coordinator than as a position coach, and the bigger point, 2) there's more than a decent chance there's an opening HERE next year, and if the defense shows massive improvement he could be right in line for that job.

[Big Buds]

Just heard on ESPN1420 that James Willis is now staying.

That is strange? I wonder why?

[Big Buds]

I'm glad he's staying as well. Looking at it from a practical point of view, it's tough to pass up a $300,000 RAISE. But if he wants to be a head coach again, two things: 1) it's easier to get there as a coordinator than as a position coach, and the bigger point, 2) there's more than a decent chance there's an opening HERE next year, and if the defense shows massive improvement he could be right in line for that job.

I didn't know he was a head coach.

[CajunSaint08]

Per the report, he had a change of heart after telling the players and seeing the look on their faces. I'm sure Coach Hud also had a good long discussion with him.

[CajunEXPRESS]

Do not look gift horse in the mouth. I can think of several reasons he might be staying, and some good some not so good.

[BrockMeaux]

I didn't know he was a head coach.

Sorry, I misspoke. He hasn't yet been.

[CrazyCajun]

There are still people in this world who follow their gut instinct and do what they think is right. Kind of refreshing.

[Big Buds]

Per the report, he had a change of heart after telling the players and seeing the look on their faces. I'm sure Coach Hud also had a good long discussion with him.

It sounds like an episode of "Friday Night Lights"...I'll take it!

[HoustonCajun]

There are still people in this world who follow their gut instinct and do what they think is right. Kind of refreshing.

I hope we found a way to increase his compensation as a DC to help keep him as well. Great news.

[Cajunjeb]

I am glad he is staying. The D players needs more time in the system over the spring and fall before the season starts.