Cougar football finally has a new face for their defense.

Head Coach Mike Leach announced Wednesday the team has brought in Alex Grinch to become the Cougars’ new defensive coordinator. Grinch is coming in from Missouri where he was responsible for coaching the safeties. He held that position for the last three years. Prior to his time at Missouri, Grinch spent three seasons coaching the secondary at Wyoming.

In a press release from WSU, Leach expressed his enthusiasm for having Grinch on the team, and the solid work ethic he will bring to the defense.

“We are excited to have Alex part of our football family,” Leach said. “He is a passionate, tireless worker who brings tremendous excitement and aggression to our team. He has a track record of developing young talent, which will be of great benefit to our defense.”

Grinch said in a press release from WSU he’s glad for the opportunity.

“I’m excited to join the Washington State football program and thank Coach Leach for the opportunity,” Grinch said. “It’s time to get to work to produce a defense that Cougar fans can be proud of.”

Grinch helped Missouri to a 23-5 record and two SEC East Division titles. This season, the Missouri safeties were responsible for six of the team’s 12 interceptions. Leach said Grinch comes with a respectable track record.

“He is highly regarded in the coaching field and has a very bright future,” Leach said. “We are very fortunate to have Alex (Grinch) at Washington State University.”

The Cougars had been looking for a defensive coordinator for the last six weeks following the dismissal of former defensive coordinator Mike Breske. Grinch will also be responsible for coaching the defensive backs.

WSU was ranked 97th nationally in total yards allowed in 2014, something Grinch will be tasked to improve. He is inheriting a very young defensive secondary that saw multiple freshmen on the field this season. Grinch will seek to continue their development and provide leadership to the young core.

It isn’t known what type of defensive scheme Grinch will bring, however it was believed Leach and his staff were looking for an attacking defense that would blitz aggressively to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

Reporting by William Cheshier