Report: Notre Dame To Interview Mike Elko For Defensive Coordinator Job

Notre Dame might be closing in on its next defensive coordinator.

According to Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports, Wake Forest defensive coordinator Mike Elko is expected to interview for the same position with the Irish early this week.

The 39-year-old Elko just completed his third season as Wake Forest’s defensive coordinator. Prior to that, Elko was the defensive coordinator at Bowling Green for five seasons.

In 2016, Elko’s defense finished tied for 20th in the country, allowing just 21.8 points per game. In 2016, the Demon Deacons finished tied for 43rd at 24.6 points per game allowed.

Wake Forest finished 39th in total defense this past season, allowing 370.1 yards per game. In 2015, Wake Forest’s defense ranked 38th in the nation, allowing just 363.8 yards per game.

In last year’s game against Notre Dame, Elko’s defense held Notre Dame to 282 yards of total offense — 181 under its 2015 season-long average. He did that with a roster that had significantly less talent.

Notre Dame is looking to replace Brian VanGorder, who was fired four games into his third season. Defensive analyst Greg Hudson was promoted to defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season.