Ex-UCLA coach Bob Toledo promises to bring a spark to the New Mexico football program as the Lobos' new offensive coordinator.
Our evening edition story offers a little background on Toledo, who replaces five-year offensive coordinator Dan Dodd.
Ex-Bruin to join staff
Lobos coach Rocky Long introduced Toledo as assistant head coach, offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at a news conference Wednesday afternoon.
"In my mind, he's one of the best offensive coordinators and play callers in the game, so I'm real excited to have him join the staff," Long said of Toledo.
Long said he is still restructing the remainder of his coaching staff.
Two of his assistant coaches are interviewing for other coaching jobs. Dodd is not one of them. Long said he will likely announce the new responsibilities for coaches on national signing day Feb. 1. If none of the coaches take jobs elsewhere, Long said one of the coaches will be assigned to another job within the program because the NCAA limits him to nine assistant coaches.
"I appreciate all of their hard work and no one is losing their jobs," he said.
Toledo said he was lured to New Mexico because of his close friendship with Long, his interest in returning to the coaching ranks after a three-year hiatus and desire to win.
"I'm getting older and want a chance to work with people I trust," he said. "I have missed being around players, scheming, creating game plans and competing. I think New Mexico will be a great fit for me, and I have no problem answering to Rocky. He's the head coach and I'm happy to be here."
Toledo said he will install his offense, which includes a mix of multiple formations and play groups. He said he will establish the run to set up the play-action pass, run a few trick plays and plans to capitalize on the athleticism of the Lobos quarterbacks.
Toledo cited Bill Walsh as one of his mentors.
"I don't hang my hat on a play, I hang my hat on multiplicity," he said.
What do you think of Long's decision to hire Toledo? Does it give you more confidence in next year's team or make you more optimistic about the future of the program?
Check out Thursday's Tribune for a bonanza of football coverage, including Richard Stevens' take on Toledo.

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