Maryland introduced Michigan defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin as its next head coach on Wednesday.
After leading the Wolverines to the nation's No. 4 total defense in 2015, Durkin, 37, reportedly emerged as a "strong candidate" for the Maryland gig following an interview with the school last week. CBS Sports' Dennis Dodd reported Wednesday that the Terps' had offered Durkin the job, and multiple outlets reported the news of his arrival shortly before an official release from the school.
"I want to thank Kevin Anderson, Dr. Loh, Damon Evans and the entire search committee for this incredible opportunity to lead the University of Maryland football program," Durkin said Wednesday. "Maryland’s commitment to excellence in the class room, on the field and in the community aligns with my principles of building an elite program. I look forward to bringing an exciting and successful brand of football to our passionate fan base and supporters."
Durkin, one of the nation's most respected assistants, is known as a strong defensive coach and recruiter. He re-joined Jim Harbaugh as defensive coordinator Michigan this season after serving on his staff as special teams coordinator at Stanford (2007-09).
When Harbaugh left for the NFL, Durkin took the same role at Florida under Urban Meyer; he was retained by Will Muschamp and eventually promoted to defensive coordinator of the Gators. Durkin ended his time at Florida (2010-14) as interim coach for the Gators' 2015 Birmingham Bowl win, playing a key role in helping the team transition to new coach Jim McElwain.
He will not coach Michigan during its bowl game.
Maryland was one of the first Power Five schools to remove its coach, firing Randy Edsall on Oct. 11. Since then, athletic director Kevin Anderson hasn't said much to the media, but one can assume he's been doing a lot of research on potential candidates for the job.
Comments from university president Wallace D. Loh shortly after Edsall's dismissal suggested that Maryland might look for an offensive-minded coach to energize the fan base with points on the scoreboard.
While there are plenty of coaches and coordinators boasting offensive resumes at the moment, Durkin may be a safer hire thanks to his proven ability to build a defense and win battles on the recruiting trail. Anyone that knows Durkin usually describes him as passionate, energetic and enthusiastic.
You may need to score points to win conference titles elsewhere, but you need a good defense, first, to win in the Big Ten.
