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New DC Kevin Steele has preexisting family roots at Auburn
New Auburn defensive coordinator Kevin Steele was introduced to the Auburn program on Tuesday during his welcome press conference.
Welcome new Auburn defensive coordinator Kevin Steele #WarEagle pic.twitter.com/pEQPlH2Uzz
— AuburnPix (@AuburnPix) January 5, 2016
The former LSU man is tasked with improving an Auburn defense ranked towards the bottom of the conference in multiple categories (sacks, rush defense, total defense, and pass defense).
Suffice it to say, but he appears to be thrilled at the challenge.
"It's certainly an exciting time for [my wife], myself and my children," said Steele. It's an exciting time to be here with coach [Gus Malzahn]. It was a very, very easy decision for me."
Steele admitted his wife wanted to be at Auburn -- and the decision to leave LSU was surely enhanced by the fact Steele's brother works in the Auburn athletic department. His daughter is also a graduate of the university.
Under Steele in '15, LSU's defense ranked No. 25 nationally. It was a unit buoyed by an active linebacker corps, speed off the edge up front, and a ballhawking style of play in the secondary. Auburn hopes Steele can institute similar principles.
One aspect worth noting is the respect Steele has for not only the university, but also Malzahn himself.
"When you coach as long as I have you know the signs of greatness and you know the signs of the right people being at the right place," said Steele. "In 35 years you know what that looks like and you know what the right people are."
Heading into the next month, it will be imperative for Steele, Malzahn, and the rest of the staff to recruit -- and sign -- players capable of fitting into Steele's scheme.
