The Minnesota Golden Gophers football team has locked in its defensive coordinator for another two seasons.
The program announced a two-year extension with Corey Hetherman on Saturday after a week of speculation that he was trying interest from other programs, particularly Rutgers, where he worked before joining the Gophers.
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This season was Hetherman's first in charge of Minnesota's defense after spending the two prior years as a linebackers coach for the Scarlet Knights.
He helped Minnesota to the eighth-best defense in the country in terms of yards allowed, 16th against the pass, 22nd against the run, 13th in scoring and tied for 31st in takeaways, an impressive showing that gave the Gophers a chance in really every game this season.
Several young players also thrived under him, including freshman phenom Koi Perich, fellow freshman Kerry Brown and sophomore linebacker Maverick Baranowski - three guys who figure to be a huge piece of the defense for the next several seasons.
After losing former defensive coordinator Joe Rossi to Michigan State last winter, it's huge for the Gophers to retain Hetherman and maintain a little continuity heading into next season. It also certainly helps in recruiting and retaining talent for the program.