The Stony Brook football program will have a new face this upcoming season, and it goes beyond the loss of star running back, Miguel Maysonet. Defensive Coordinator Rob Neviaser has left the team to accept a position at Bowling Green University in Bowling Green, Ohio. Lyle Hemphill, the defensive backs coach, has been promoted to defensive coordinator in Neviaser’s departure.
Speaking on the change, Head Football Coach Chuck Priore complemented Neviaser’s services to the team, while assuring that Hemphill will make a fine
replacement. “For the past two seasons, Rob has helped us set the benchmark of Stony Brook defense,” Priore said. “The promotion of Lyle will help us maintain consistency. I’m excited about the level of energy and passion Lyle will bring as our new coordinator.”
Last season, the Seawolves held opponents to 17 or fewer points in 9 of their 13 games. They were also able to shutout the high-power rushing attack of Army, providing their first victory over an FBS team, in program history. Senior linebacker, Jawara Dudley, returns this season to, hopefully, keep the defense in command of opposing
offenses. Dudley is a two-time all- conference selection, who looks to improve on his impressive 81 tackle 2012 season.
For a Stony Brook football team that is on the rise, the coaching change does bring the concern that future success could be hindered by the loss of high-caliber coaches to larger football universities. Adam Gutes, The assistant director of Athletic Communications, when asked about this concern, said, “It is part of any profession. Coaches [and] support staff are always looking to reach their goals.”
