Louisville football implements innovative defensive strategies for 2026 season

Louisville football co-defensive coordinators Steve Ellis and Mark Ivey are combining old-school defense with new tactics as they prepare for the 2026 season. The coaching staff consists of a mix of experienced coaches and newcomers, emphasizing collaborative brainstorming to refine their approach. Louisville has transitioned from a 4-3 to a 4-2-5 base defense under head coach Jeff Brohm, integrating more playmaking opportunities for players like safety Kaleb Beasley. New rule changes have enabled all coaching staff to offer instruction during practices and games, which Ivey plans to leverage for enhanced game-time decision-making. The defense aims to improve upon its past performance, which previously set program records in sacks and takeaways.

• 9:12 AMYahoo Sports — Louisville football aims for innovative approach to old-school defense