Bronco still to double as 'D' coordinator

PROVO — When the BYU defense struggled in 2005, coach Bronco Mendenhall absorbed criticism for taking on the dual role of head coach and defensive coordinator.

Mendenhall admitted it was an issue he would revisit after the 2006 season. And in the wake of an 11-2 campaign that saw the defense surrender only 14 points per game, Mendenhall has decided to continue as the defensive coordinator.

"I've learned a lot in being the head coach and defensive coordinator in terms of delegation, but also throwing out the nonessential things," he said Friday. "I learned through a streamlined organizational approach and delegation and focusing on the right things that it's possible to do both. I would say the results this season would substantiate that direction."

What Mendenhall likes most about coaching is teaching and interactions with the players. "I don't believe this program or this team is ready, nor am I ready, to distance myself a little bit more from the day-to-day," he said. "It's something I still enjoy. It's certainly a challenge, but it's a necessary identity for our team to have my daily interaction."

Several BYU assistants have been pursued by other schools, but they have chosen to stay in Provo for now. "There was a run made at a number of my assistants this year, as is common with a team that has success," Mendenhall said. "I think we're by it, but until we play in the fall, it's probably never safe to say. Once we get to spring practice, I would feel a lot more out of the woods than we are now."

When asked, Mendenhall said he has not been contacted by other schools. "I've only been the head coach for two years," he said. "I would say that there are many who think the jury is still out on how I'll do over time. I'm not interested in being a head coach anywhere else."

QUARTERBACK OUTLOOK: Spring practices open March 19, and all eyes will be riveted on the quarterback derby, as the Cougars must replace Mountain West Conference offensive player of the year John Beck.

Mendenhall said sophomore Max Hall will likely get first reps when spring drills begin. Cade Cooper, a junior college all-American out of Snow JC who has walked-on, should help make the competition fierce.

"I think he'll compete hard against Max," Mendenhall said. "I'm not saying I can determine the starter right now. We'll let the offseason and spring determine that. What I'd like is to have a starter in place in the summer."