Fresno State finally made the promotion of Bert Watts official, the Bulldogs' linebackers coach moving up to replace Orlondo Steinauer as defensive coordinator.
That is no small step. The Bulldogs last season ranked second in the Mountain West Conference in scoring and total defense, allowing only 17.9 points and 320.6 yards per game, their best since 1991 in both statistical categories. And on a defensive staff that includes defensive backs coach J.D. Williams and defensive line coach Jamar Cain, Watts' likely is not the most recognizable name to most.
A mixture of returning players, new faces and a new coaching staff led to a hungry, stingy Fresno State defense this season.