University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Sanders Ready to Build on Pitt Defensive Identity as Coordinator
2/4/2026 3:02:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH — Cory Sanders has spent the past eight seasons inside Pitt's defensive system, but his new title didn't leave him with much time for celebration.
Promoted to defensive coordinator following the conclusion of the 2025 season, Sanders said the initial excitement quickly shifted to the responsibility of overseeing the entire unit.
"You're excited, you're happy, and then your mind resets pretty quickly," Sanders said. "It flips to, 'Okay, now what do we need to do moving forward?' You're thinking about the team, the big picture, not just one position room."
Pitt's defensive identity, however, will remain unchanged under his direction. The unit is one perennially known for being aggressive, pressure-heavy, fast, and physical.
"We've taken great pride in being an attacking defense," Sanders said. "We get after offenses. We're a heavy blitz team. We press, we're in your face. That's who we are."
While the defense's foundation stays intact, Sanders said the focus moving forward will be on sharpening the day-to-day process. Communication, preparation and attention to detail will all be emphasized, while maintaining the program's core standards.
"We stop the run. We attack the football. We want to take the ball away," Sanders said. "That's how we're measured."
Sanders credits Randy Bates, the team's most recent defensive coordinator who retired after the Military Bowl, for helping shape his development as both a coach and leader.
"I've learned a ton from Coach Bates," Sanders said, citing both Bates' positivity and daily energy as influences he plans to carry into the role.
And while Sanders no longer oversees the entire unit as opposed to his usual safeties, he assured the media his approach to game planning will be anything but singular.
"On game day, I'm calling the defense," Sanders said, "but there are countless man-hours that go into coordinating everything together as a staff."
For Sanders, though, the personal goal is straightforward.
"I just want to be the best defensive coordinator in the country," he said. "That's my goal every single day, finding ways to improve our defense and make our players better."
