South Alabama Football gets Todd Orlando for Defensive Coordinator

Mobile, AL (BuzzReport) — South Alabama has made a significant move to reshape its football program, landing veteran coach Todd Orlando as the Jaguars’ new defensive coordinator. The hire signals a clear commitment to rebuilding the defense following a challenging season.

Orlando brings an extensive résumé that spans some of the most recognizable names in college football, along with successful stints at rising Group of Five programs. Most recently, he directed the defense for South Florida under head coach Alex Golesh, overseeing a unit that competed in one of the nation’s most dynamic offensive conferences.

The addition gives South Alabama head coach Major Applewhite a seasoned defensive mind with experience at blue-blood programs such as Texas and USC. Orlando and Applewhite also share a professional history, having worked together at the University of Houston roughly a decade ago, when Applewhite served as offensive coordinator and Orlando led the Cougars’ defense.

The move comes after Applewhite made sweeping changes to the Jaguars’ defensive staff following a disappointing 4–8 campaign in 2025. That season marked a step back after South Alabama posted seven wins in 2024, prompting a reevaluation of the program’s defensive direction.

With Orlando now in place, South Alabama is banking on proven leadership and experience to stabilize and elevate its defense as the Jaguars look to rebound in the upcoming season.