New Linebackers Coach nick Toth Brings Championship Pedigree to Kansas State
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Manhattan, KS – kansas State football has added a seasoned coach to its defensive staff with the hiring of Nick Toth as linebackers coach. Toth, a 25-year coaching veteran, arrives in Manhattan after serving as the safeties coach at Air Force. His extensive experience at multiple levels of college football, and a proven track record of developing talent, brings a wealth of knowledge to the Wildcats.
A Familiarity with Success
For Toth, Kansas State is more than just a new job; it’s a program he’s long admired. He first experienced Bill Snyder Family Stadium as an opponent, lining up as a safety for Ohio University in a hard-fought 1997 contest against K-State quarterback Michael bishop . Later, as a coach at texas A&M in 2011, he faced Collin Klein and the Wildcats in a thrilling four-overtime game.
“Those K-State teams were so hard-nosed under Coach Snyder,” toth remarked. “They’d break yoru face off. Gosh, they were good. I grew up respecting guys like that.”
A Diverse Coaching Resume
Toth’s coaching career includes stops at several prominent programs, providing a diverse foundation for his approach to the game. He has coached at Texas A&M, Fresno State, UCF, Oregon, and Air Force, working with all three levels of the defense.
His resume boasts success stories, including mentoring future NFL stars:
- Von Miller (Texas A&M): Toth coached Miller, the 2010 Butkus Award winner and eventual No. 2 overall NFL Draft pick.
- Phillip Thomas (Fresno State): He helped develop Thomas into an All-american safety and a finalist for the 2012 Jim Thorpe Award.
- kayvon Thibodeaux (Oregon): Toth coached thibodeaux, an All-American defensive end who was selected fifth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
- Trey Taylor (Air Force): Most recently, he coached Taylor, the 2023 Jim Thorpe Award winner.
Leadership and Development as Cornerstones
Toth’s coaching philosophy centers around developing leadership and a strong work ethic in his players. He believes fundamental traits outweigh physical attributes.
“Everywhere I’ve been, it’s the same, forget physical traits,” Toth stated.”The grate linebackers, those dudes are almost always leaders, and they’re leaders every day of the year…they’re a model of behavior in terms of planning.”
He noted that his players are demonstrating a hunger to improve and a willingness to embrace higher standards. “They’re hungry. K-State went 6-6, and for a lot of people they were happy to be going to a bowl game, but these guys have much higher standards than that.”
Excitement for the Future at K-State
Toth expressed enthusiasm for joining Collin Klein’s staff and the overall culture at Kansas State. He was promptly impressed by the program’s facilities, stating they rival the top programs in college football.He also noted the strong character focus within the program.
“It was a prayer answered,” Toth said of joining the wildcats. “it really was.”
Key Takeaways
- Nick toth brings 25 years of coaching expertise to Kansas state.
- He has a proven track record of developing NFL-caliber players.
- Toth emphasizes leadership, work ethic, and preparation.
- he is impressed by K-state’s facilities and the program’s commitment to character.