New Bison linebackers coach Stanard has to be quick study

The Bison defense is enjoying a mini-makeover this spring, trying to adjust to losing two senior captains at linebacker and a new coach taking over the position. Craig Bohl is counting on the former Husker to pick up the slack.

Steve Stanard – New NDSU Linebackers Coach: “I know they played a great defense in that stretch run they had in the playoffs and national championship was phenomenal. I didn’t realize how good we can be until I get here on campus.”

Steve Stanard knows he needs to be a quick study. He's taking over coaching a position, linebacker, that had four of the top five tacklers on the Bison roster last year. He says his experience is the best asset

Steve Stanard: “The style is very similar to Tulane, Colorado State, Ohio. The verbage is a little different, but as far as the overall concept of the defense, it’s been a smooth transition.”

The players will have to adjust as well. Grant Olson takes over at middle linebacker for four year starter Preston Evans...

As for Stanard, leaving the FBS world to go to FCS, he has some concise thoughts on that.

Steve Stanard: “I told Coach Bohl Tulane would have been lucky to beat NDSU 1 out of 10 times. Division 1 is division 1.”

NDSU will hold its first scrimmage on Saturday.

Tags: steve stanard, sports, bison, football, updates