UTEP Football Head Coach Scotty Walden has announced the appointment of Seth McDonald as the Miners' bandit coach. McDonald joins UTEP after serving as Austin Peay's linebackers coach, co-special teams coordinator, and defensive recruiting coordinator during the 2023 season. His responsibilities included coaching various linebacker positions, contributing to special teams game plans, and leading the kickoff team. Walden emphasized McDonald's coaching prowess and recruiting skills, citing his success at Austin Peay and his potential impact on the Miner Defense.

By the Numbers
  • Austin Peay's total defense ranked third in the United Athletic Conference (UAC) with 396.0 yards allowed per game in the 2023 season.
  • APU ranked third in the UAC and 42nd in FCS in scoring defense, allowing 24.4 points per game.
  • The Governors ranked first in the UAC and 12th in FCS with three defensive touchdowns and forced 16 turnovers.
State of Play
  • Seth McDonald brings a successful coaching track record from his time at Austin Peay, South Alabama, Indiana, Jacksonville State, and Robert Morris.
  • McDonald's experience as a player and his coaching accomplishments position him as a valuable addition to the UTEP coaching staff.
What's Next

Seth McDonald's appointment signifies UTEP's strategic investment in coaching talent, signaling a commitment to further enhancing the team's defensive capabilities.

Bottom Line

UTEP's hiring of Seth McDonald underscores the program's intention to bolster its coaching staff with experienced and skilled individuals who can elevate the team's performance, particularly on the defensive front.