Notre Dame makes four new hires

Notre Dameannounced four new additions to its coaching staff Monday -- Mike Sanford (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach), Autry Denson (running backs), Keith Gilmore (defensive line) and Todd Lyght (defensive backs).

The son of Indiana State coach Mike Sanford, the younger Sanford joins the Fighting Irish from Boise State. He replaces Matt LaFleur, who left for the Atlanta Falcons.

Denson and Lyght, both former Notre Dame players, join the Irish from South Florida and Vanderbilt, respectively. Denson replaces Tony Alford, who left for Ohio State, while Lyght replaces Kerry Cooks, who left for Oklahoma. Gilmore comes from North Carolina.

Former defensive line coach Mike Elston will coach linebackers and serve as the Irish's recruiting coordinator, while former offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock will be associate head coach and wide receivers coach.

In addition, former Irish assistant Bob Elliott has moved to an administrative role, as special assistant to head coach Brian Kelly.

Former Notre Dame captain Ron Powlus has rejoined the program, as well, as director of player development.