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Coaching staff update: Woody new defensive coordinator

Michigan defensive analyst Nate Woody was officially named the Black Knights’ defensive coordinator Monday.

Army was looking for a defensive mind that could run an attacking odd front and Woody fits the bill. He’s one season removed from a 3-4 scheme as Georgia Tech’s defensive coordinator in 2018.

“I’m appreciative to coach (Jeff) Monken for the opportunity to come to Army and work with this outstanding group of young men,” Woody said in a press release. “I saw firsthand in Ann Arbor how well this defense can play in the near upset at Michigan earlier this season and look forward to the challenge of maintaining this proud tradition at West Point.”

The Black Knights allowed 14 points in regulation in 24-21 double-overtime loss to then-No. 7 Michigan in Week Two.

Woody’s name has been mentioned in Army past openings. He will be the third Army defensive coordinator in as many seasons. John Loose, who was promoted when Jay Bateman left for North Carolina after the 2018 regular season, officially is an assistant head coach. It’s not clear what position Loose will coach.

Pete Thamel of Yahoo Sports reported Loose’s switch on Dec. 20 and stated the new defensive coordinator would evaluate the rest of the staff.

Black Knight Nation learned that defensive line coach Kevin Lewis and outside linebacker coach Matt Hachmann would not be returning after one season on the staff.

Monken is familiar with Woody’s work for their time in the Southern Conference. Woody was the defensive coordinator at Wofford (2000-12) when Monken was Georgia Southern’s head coach and an offensive assistant.

“Nate is a veteran coach that has led some of the nation’s top defenses year in and year out,” Monken said in a press release. “Having faced his defenses in the past and seeing the production of his defensive units throughout his career, I am excited to have him leading our men at West Point.”

The Black Knights forced 17 takeaways (7 interceptions, 10 fumbles) in 2019. Woody’s 2018 Georgia Tech defense had 25 takeaways.

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