The hiring of Alex Grinch, a former USC Trojans defensive coordinator, as the Wisconsin Badgers’ new safeties coach after Colin Hitschler resigned to take a similar position with the Alabama Crimson Tide, was an interesting decision.Grinch’s hire means that Wisconsin will have three different safeties coaches in three seasons—Jim Leonhard, Hitschler, and Grinch. Grinch is prepared for his next opportunity after getting fired from USC back in November, but he will have huge shoes to fill given the success of both of his predecessors, whether it be on the recruiting trail or as a position coach.
What finally made Grinch decide to travel to Wisconsin? Upon being hired earlier this offseason, Grinch stated that “the Wisconsin brand was a big factor.” “Being grateful for what this football program has long represented.” There is a respect for the Wisconsin football brand across the nation, even though I believe coaches would not be honest with you if you polled them. Now, the brand has grown over time as a result of Wisconsin’s winning culture and their football philosophy, which Grinch found to be particularly appealing.
And it’s clear that winning at the top led to that [respect],” Grinch remarked. “But number two, in my brief time here, it’s very evident just the kind of football and the blue-collar approach to things, which [I’m thrilled for].” It sort of fits with what you may anticipate. The presence of head coach Luke Fickell, who has garnered reputation around the nation over his coaching tenure, was also a significant influence.
And that would be Coach Fickell, who has a track record of success, strong leadership, and a tried-and-true method for developing a program. I so make a point of highlighting those [three] points. And Madison, the town as well. You’re talking about one of the greatest places in the nation, in my opinion, to live and work if you’re seeking for work. “Over the past twenty-odd years, I’ve had the good fortune to work in a variety of locations across the nation, including a town like this, a college like this, and an elite program with a tried-and-true approach, because, you know, from a sales standpoint, you got to do that with recruits.”
Kindness, please. That answers a lot of questions. Thus, yes, eager. Throughout his first few months at Wisconsin, Grinch has established a strong rapport with the skilled safeties room, who have already come to respect his method and thinking. Furthermore, Grinch has been involved in the recruiting process, which is crucial for Wisconsin because Colin Hitschler made a big impact there in his one year at Madison.
However, the position coach the Badgers have is experienced and willing to turn around his reputation following a couple of disappointing seasons at USC, which he will attempt to accomplish in Madison.