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Tom Allen to Join Penn State as New Defensive Coordinator

The former Indiana head coach replaces Manny Diaz, bringing his experience to one of the top defenses in the country.

  • Former Indiana head coach Tom Allen is set to join Penn State as the new defensive coordinator, replacing Manny Diaz who left to become the Duke head coach.
  • Allen, 53, had a 33-49 record in seven seasons as Indiana’s head coach before he was fired in late November.
  • Penn State’s defense led the FBS in yards per play allowed this season under Manny Diaz.
  • James Franklin, Penn State's head coach, wanted a coordinator with previous head coaching experience who wasn’t going to be intimidated by taking over one of the top defenses in the country, a description that fits Allen.
  • Interim co-defensive coordinators Anthony Poindexter and Robb Smith will continue leading the defense during the bowl season, while Allen gets familiar with the personnel.
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