The Cincinnati Bearcats football program has officially filled its special teams coordinator vacancy, bringing in Luke Paschall from Middle Tennessee State.
This crucial coaching position had remained open throughout the spring practice period, with the coaching staff collectively overseeing special teams drills.
The formal announcement of Paschall’s hiring brings a dedicated expert to this vital aspect of the game.
During spring practices, the Bearcats’ special teams focus was primarily on punt repetitions, with limited attention given to kickoff scenarios. The absence of a dedicated special teams coordinator meant that various coaches shared responsibilities for this phase of play.
The addition of Paschall ensures that the team now has a singular, experienced voice to lead and refine their special teams units, aiming to gain a competitive edge in crucial field position and “hidden yardage” battles.
Head Coach Scott Satterfield expressed his enthusiasm for the new hire in a press release dated May 14th. “I’m excited to welcome Luke Paschall to our Cincinnati Bearcats team,” Satterfield stated.
He emphasized that Paschall’s sole focus will be on special teams, a strategic move designed to give the Bearcats an advantage in critical game situations. Satterfield highlighted Paschall’s extensive experience, noting his more than a decade of success in leading special teams units, which he believes will significantly elevate the coaching staff and strengthen the overall program.
Paschall’s coaching career in special teams coordination spans back to 2014, with previous stints at various collegiate programs. Before joining Cincinnati, he served in coordinating roles at Arkansas State, North Carolina, UMass, and Louisiana, in addition to his most recent two seasons at Middle Tennessee State (MTSU).
His track record includes overseeing units that have consistently aimed for high performance, though specific team rankings can fluctuate based on a multitude of factors, including overall team performance.
While at MTSU, Paschall’s special teams units received a Pro Football Focus grade of 40th nationally in the 2023 season. However, their ranking shifted to 118th during the challenging 2024 season, which saw the Blue Raiders finish with a 3-9 record.
These fluctuations are a common aspect of collegiate sports, reflecting the dynamic nature of team rosters and overall program development.
Cincinnati’s move to secure a dedicated special teams coordinator like Paschall underscores their commitment to optimizing every facet of their game as they navigate the competitive landscape of college football.