League: MLB Sport: Baseball Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Idaho Vandals hire VJ Malo as new defensive line coach

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 1:11 AM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Baseball

Summary

The Idaho Vandals have hired VJ Malo as their new defensive line coach as the team prepares for the upcoming football season. Malo replaces Tevita Finau after Vandals coach Thomas Ford Jr. sought to improve the defensive line's performance in key areas like sacks and tackles for loss. During fall camp, the defensive line has shown improved consistency and disruption, with multiple players impressing coaching staff, including Mitch Jaskowiak and Hikifo'Ou Maile. Malo is noted for his coaching passion and ability to connect with players, aiming to cultivate both talent and depth on the squad as they look to enhance their defensive capabilities this season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•VJ Malo replaces Tevita Finau as Idaho's defensive line coach.
•Idaho seeks to improve in sacks and tackles for loss this season.
•Coaches praise the defensive line's improved performance during fall camp.
•Malo has prior experience coaching at Portland State with proven results.
•Team aims for meaningful games in December, emphasizing defensive impact.

Latest Updates

1:11 AMYahoo Sports — How DL coach VJ Malo is making his presence felt in Idaho's D-line room

What they're saying

"
Aug. 20—The defensive line needed a change of management. Improving in sacks, tackles for loss and pressures is crucial for the Idaho Vandals' defense this upcoming season. So Idaho coach Thomas Ford Jr. made the call. He let go of former defensive line coach Tevita Finau and hired a rather young coach, VJ Malo, to lead the defensive line. Ford said that there was an "outstanding relationship" ...
— Yahoo Sports

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