NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt University has announced major changes in its football coaching staff with Steve Gregory being elevated to the position of defensive coordinator and Nick Lezynski stepping into the role of co-defensive coordinator. This decision was publicized by the university on Monday.
Previously, the head coach of Vanderbilt, Clark Lea, took charge of the defense himself after the initial coordinator, Nick Howell, was demoted at the conclusion of the 2023 season. Steve Gregory, who joined the team as an associate defensive coordinator and secondary coach, has an extensive background, including five years as an assistant in the NFL.
Nick Lezynski, who is preparing to begin his fourth season alongside the Commodores, started as a linebackers coach and was advanced to the role of defensive run game coordinator in 2023. Under the new leadership structure directed by Lea, both Gregory and Lezynski contributed significantly to the progress in Vanderbilt’s defense. The team’s scoring defense dramatically advanced from 126th place in 2023 to 50th in 2024, whereas the rushing defense witnessed an improvement, moving from 104th to 52nd.
This strategic enhancement in defense was highlighted by innovative achievements, including restricting two consecutive opponents, Virginia Tech and Alcorn State, to under 100 rushing yards, a feat not realized since 2017. Additionally, a notable 17-7 victory against Auburn set a new benchmark, representing the least points allowed to an SEC opponent since 2015.
During the season, the Commodores achieved a respectable record of 7-6, marking their first winning season since 2013. This accomplishment is a promising indicator of the transformative progress within the team under the current coaching leadership.
