August 15, 2005

With his defensive coordinator in Iraq, Billings to coach defense (again)

With Southeast Missouri State defensive coordinator Damon Bradford continuing to serve our country in Iraq, head coach Tim Billings will again perform double-duty and coordinate the Redhawks defense. Last season, Billings also served as his own defensive coordinator in Bradford's war-related absence.

Bradford serves as an executive officer of Troop F, 2nd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment of the Tennessee National Guard.

Last season, the Redhawks defense struggled mightily under Billings' leadership, as the 3-8 Redhawks ranked last among 117 D1-AA programs in total defense, giving up 493 yards per game. However, Billings' resume includes numerous outstanding seasons as the defensive coordinator at Marshall in the 1990's, so he is certainly capable of engineering a turnaround.

The Redhawks open the season on September 1 at home against highly-touted Southern Illinois.

Our gratitude and thanks go out to Bradford and all the other soldiers that so bravely serve our country in harm's way.

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