University of Missouri football head coach Eliah Drinkwitz announced changes and an addition to his coaching staff following the start of the 2022 spring practice session.
Al Pogue joins as Mizzou's new cornerbacks coach. Blake Baker has been promoted to defensive coordinator and will work with the safeties. Baker was originally hired as safeties coach in late January. In his third season with the Tigers, D.J. Smith has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator. He'll also continue as recruiting coordinator and linebackers coach.
"Al Pogue brings a ton of experience to our staff," Drinkwitz said. "I know him well and I know what he brings to the table. I'm confident that the group of coaches and staff we've assembled will be impactful for our program on and off the field."
Pogue arrives in Columbia following seasons at Troy (2021, cornerbacks), Auburn (2020, outside linebackers) and West Virginia (outside linebackers). His first stop at Troy, 2014-18, was also as cornerbacks coach.
Pogue joined the Auburn staff for his first stint in 2011. During his tenure, the Tigers played in the 2013 BCS National Championship game, won the 2013 SEC Championship and won the 2011 Chick-fil-A Bowl.
From 2001-10, Pogue was a high school coach in Alabama, including six seasons as a head coach (Calhoun, St. Jude, Carver). He was a three-year starter as a safety and cornerback at Alabama State from 1993-96, earning All-America and All-SWAC honors at free safety.