Penn State Hires Manny Diaz As Defensive Coordinator

Published|Updated

Former Miami head coach Manny Diaz will be the next defensive coordinator and linebackers coach for the Penn State Nittany Lions.

Penn State head coach James Franklin announced the hiring of Diaz, who replaces Brent Pry. Pry was announced as Virginia Tech's new head coach Nov. 30 after eight seasons at Penn State, including six as defensive coordinator.

"We are thrilled to add Manny Diaz as our defensive coordinator," Franklin said. "Manny is a veteran defensive play caller whose head coaching experience will bring tremendous value to our organization. ... Manny's defensive philosophy is in line with our scheme and will help in the transition with our current team."

Diaz was fired by Miami this week after three years and was replaced by Oregon coach Mario Cristobal.

"My family and I are so excited to come to Happy Valley and join the Penn State family," Diaz said in a news release. "The opportunity to lead Linebacker U is an honor and I will work every day to uphold that tradition. Penn State's defense has been among the nation's best, both historically and under Coach Franklin. I will continue to pursue excellence with our defensive unit on a daily basis."

Diaz continued: "I can't wait to get on the field with this talented group, to get to know them, and to ultimately develop them as football players, students and young men. Penn State's fans are the best in the country, and I look forward to seeing them this fall in Beaver Stadium!"

Follow Meg Turner on Twitter @Megnturner_ and Instagram @Megnturner.

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