ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) Rocky Long is returning to New Mexico as defensive coordinator after recently retiring from San Diego State, where he coached the Aztecs to nine straight bowl games.

New Mexico head coach Danny Gonzales praised Long on Monday, expressing excitement about the program's winningest coach returning to his alma mater.

“Coach Long's teams at both UNM and San Diego State were known for their defense, and I don't think there is a better defensive coach in the country. We are lucky to have him back with our program,” Gonzales said in a statement.