Gus Malzahn saw the need and filled it.
Most coaches don't want to make major staff moves right before a season begins, but Gus Malzahn saw this opportunity to get better this season and to continue to build his program for the future. In late June, Malzahn approached Ross Newton about coming back to UCF.
As Malzahn's chief of staff, Newton will truly be Gus' right hand man, enabling the head coach to focus more on football while ensuring his vision is being implemented across the program and throughout the University.
Newton, a long-time Samford assistant, worked with Gus both at Auburn and earlier at UCF. After spending the past year plus back in Alabama, Newton is now back in Florida and on the job. With his background in special teams, and given the recent rollback of rules limiting the number of countable coaches, one would think he will also contribute to some game planning in that area; but sources tell us to expect his focus to be helping Gus implement his vision for the program.
In this era where "everything is changing" it seems quite wise of Gus to bring on an experienced set of eyes to help oversee the roster, the dollars, staff composition and more. With easing restrictions on both players and staff, coaches across the country are trying to figure out how to best structure things going forward.
Malzahn told FootballScoop, "As we move into the Big 12, I felt bringing Ross back would really be an asset as we grow. He's a leader, and so smart and good with people."
I suspect many coaches to follow Gus' lead here and try to lure top talent to a position such as this as they plan for the future.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest coaching news.