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Ball State names new defensive coordinator

MUNCIE, Ind. — Mike Neu said on National Signing Day that he would look to spend about two weeks finding his next defensive coordinator. Twelve days later, he formally announced the hiring of David Elson.

Elson, who played safety for Butler from 1990-93, started his career as a defensive backs coach at Western Kentucky (1996-2000) before getting promoted to defensive coordinator (2001-02) and then head coach (2003-09).

He became the youngest Division I head coach when promoted at WKU and went on to the FCS Playoffs in both of his first two years. He mentored NFL wide receiver Curtis Hamilton (Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints) along with defensive backs Mel Mitchell (New Orleans Saints) and Joseph Jefferson, who played for the Indianapolis Colts.