Jay Hill isn’t bouncing anytime soon.
In his second year as BYU’s defensive coordinator, Hill delivered a remarkable system that helped catapult the Cougars to an 11-win season and almost a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Hill’s attention to detail, player development, confidence and leadership of BYU’s staff of coaches and analysts will stand as one of the top performances in Provo in some time.
Hill’s defense tied Texas as No. 1 in interceptions gained with 22 in 2024. Texas got those 22 in 16 games while BYU achieved it in 13.
Texas had the benefit of first-team All-America linebacker in Anthony Hill Jr. and corner Jahdae Barron, who won the Jim Thorpe Award as the best college defensive back in the country. The Longhorns also benefited from fielding second-team All-America safety Michael Taaffe.
Hill’s squad made it a team effort with linemen, linebackers, corners and safeties all picking off passes. Linebacker Isaiah Glasker, nickel back Jakob Robinson and safety Tanner Wall each had three interceptions on the season.
Hill’s use of deception with his alignments was a key feature to fielding one of the top defenses in the Big 12.
When head coach Kalani Sitake hired Hill away from Weber State, it was a significant move in his effort to prepare the Cougars for Big 12 play and it paid big dividends.
The good news is Hill was pursued in the offseason, but he decided to stay right where he is.
Responding to a question by KSL’s Mitch Harper in the final press session of spring football practice, Hill explained why he is committed to his job in Provo.
Hill said his situation at BYU as assistant head coach and coordinator fits him just fine.
“I get to work for the best head coach. I mean, he’s amazing,” said Hill of Sitake.
“He allows me on defense to do what I want to do. He’s amazing. And I get to work next to Aaron Roderick, who I have so much respect for. I think he’s one of the best play-callers in the game, and does a phenomenal job organizing the offense.”
Hill expressed appreciation for BYU’s administration and how they have created a fit for him as a staff member on campus.
“Those things were ...
