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Rutgers Hires Travis Johansen as New Defensive Coordinator

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rutgers University confirms Travis Johansen as its new defensive coordinator.
He previously served as the head coach at South Dakota, leading the Coyotes to a 10-5 record and a 2025 FCS quarterfinals appearance.
He has 14 years of defensive coordination experience, including time at South Dakota with top-tier FCS defenses.
The move followed Rutgers' dismissal of co-defensive coordinators Robb Smith and Zach Sparber.

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Story summary

Rutgers University confirms Travis Johansen as its new defensive coordinator.
He previously served as the head coach at South Dakota, leading the Coyotes to a 10-5 record and a 2025 FCS quarterfinals appearance.
He has 14 years of defensive coordination experience, including time at South Dakota with top-tier FCS defenses.
The move followed Rutgers' dismissal of co-defensive coordinators Robb Smith and Zach Sparber.