Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer isn’t wasting any time in his attempt to replace running backs coach Stan Drayton, who left Columbus for an opportunity with the Chicago Bears.
IrishIllustrated.com’s Pete Sampson reported that Meyer set his sights on Notre Dame’s Tony Alford to become Drayton’s replacement.
Despite never coaching together, Meyer’s interest stems from his time as an assistant coach with the Colorado State Rams when Alford was a running back for the team.
If Meyer is able to pry Alford out of South Bend, Ohio State will have its new running back coach in the fold and steal Notre Dame’s ace recruiter.
Alford also serves as Notre Dame’s recruiting coordinator. He was instrumental in Notre Dame’s 11th-ranked recruiting class, according to Rivals.com. This was Alford’s fourth class heading up Notre Dame’s recruiting department. All four were considered top 20 classes.
Prior to becoming a member of the Fighting Irish during Charlie Weis’ tenure, Alford spent the 2007-08 seasons with the Louisville Cardinals. Previous stops also include the Iowa State Cyclones (two times), Washington Huskies, Kent State Golden Flashes and Mount Union Purple Raiders.
Alford could be the perfect hire for Meyer to solve some of the team’s recent issues with recruits after Drayton’s surprise move after National Signing Day.