The Kansas City Chiefs' defensive unit has been as good as any in the NFL of late, allowing more than two scores in only one of their past seven contests. What better place for a new college coach at the helm of a prestigious program to search for his staff?
That's exactly what LSU's Brian Kelly did, as the school named Chiefs linebacker coach Matt House their new defensive coordinator.
"Matt checks every box we’re looking for in a defensive coordinator," Kelly said in a statement on the program's official website. "He’s led elite SEC defenses, recruited and developed all-conference and All-American performers at multiple positions, and garnered ample experience in both the NFL and as a coordinator at multiple collegiate stops.
"He possesses a great understanding on how to defend the type of offenses we will face each week in our conference, and his ability to put players in position to make plays aligns perfectly with the identity that we want to develop with our defense. I’m excited that he’s joining our staff as we work toward building a championship program at LSU."
Prior to his role with Kansas City, House was the defensive coordinator for the Kentucky Wildcats, leading a unit that ranked sixth in the nation in scoring defense (via Chiefs.com). Kentucky also reached three consecutive bowl games while House was in charge of the defense, marking the first time the program had achieved that since 2007-2009.
He also served in other NFL roles prior to his Kentucky days, working as an assistant for the Panthers in 2008 and Rams from 2009 to 2011. His college experience also includes stints at Florida International (2015), Pittsburgh (2012-14), Buffalo (2006-07), Gardner Webb (2005), North Carolina (2003-04) and Michigan State (2001-02).
The hire has at least one prominent former LSU Tiger excited for things to come within the defensive unit.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram