With Scottie Hazelton off to Michigan State, Chris Klieman will fill his defensive coordinator opening from within.
Multiple outlets reported Monday morning that Klieman will name safeties coach Joe Klanderman to lead the Wildcats' defense.
A Minnesota State graduate, Klanderman coordinated his alma mater's defense from 2007-13 before joining Klieman's staff when he was named the Bison's head coach in 2014. Klanderman has worked under Klieman ever since, remaining in Fargo through 2018, then following him to K-State ahead of the 2019 campaign.
Kansas State ranked second in the Big 12 in passing defense, third in pass efficiency defense and first in third down defense in 2019.
Klanderman made $350,000 in 2019, while Hazelton earned $550,000.
According to the Wichita Eagle, Klanderman will continue coaching safeties while leading the defense, meaning Kansas State will hunt for a linebackers coach in replacing Hazelton's spot on the staff. ESPN added that cornerbacks coach Van Malone will add a title of passing game coordinator and assistant head coach.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.