Hardy Nickerson to direct Illini defense for Lovie Smith

Hardy Nickerson, who worked with Lovie Smith In Chicago and Tampa, is the new defensive coordinator for the Fighing Illini, officials announced Monday.

Smith now has his top two coaches in place with the hiring of Louisville's Garrick McGee announced last week.

Nickerson, who played 16 years with four NFL teams, leaves a job as linebackers coach with the 49ers to join Smith's staff in Champaign. Here's a link to the full news release.

Illini officials also announced on Monday the hiring of Andrew Hayes-Stoker as wide receivers coach. Hayes-Stoker also worked under Smith with the Bears and Buccaneers.