Travis Johansen Takes Over Rutgers Defense, Embraces Big Ten Challenge
Rutgers is turning to a proven defensive mind to reshape a unit that’s struggled to find its footing in the Big Ten. Travis Johansen, who most recently served as head coach at South Dakota, is stepping into the role of defensive coordinator for the Scarlet Knights - and he’s not shying away from the challenge.
For Johansen, this isn’t just another job. It’s a chance to bring his brand of tough, disciplined, and high-impact football to one of the most physical conferences in the country. And if his track record is any indication, Rutgers might have just landed the right man for the job.
From South Dakota to the Big Ten
Johansen made waves in his first season as head coach at South Dakota, leading the Coyotes to a 10-5 record and a deep run into the NCAA Division I quarterfinals. That kind of immediate success doesn’t happen by accident - it’s the product of a coach who knows how to build a culture, install a system, and get results.
Now, he’s bringing that same mindset to Piscataway.
“Coach Schiano is as respected a coach as there is in the country,” Johansen said, referencing Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano. “His experience in defensive football and as a leader was very enticing and something I couldn't pass up.”
Johansen’s decision to leave a head coaching position after just one season wasn’t taken lightly. But for him, the move wasn’t about titles - it was about impact.
“My goal has always been about seeing things through, wherever I've been, to produce to a level that's never been matched before,” he explained. “Maximum impact has always been what I was seeking and not necessarily the position.”
A Defensive Identity That Travels
During his time at South Dakota - and in previous stops - Johansen built a reputation for creating defenses that are physical, disciplined, and tough to move the ball against. That’s exactly what Rutgers needs.
Last season, the Scarlet Knights found themselves near the bottom of the Big Ten in several key defensive categories. Whether it was stopping the run, generating pressure, or getting off the field on third down, the unit lacked consistency. Johansen’s arrival signals a shift toward fixing that identity.
He believes the timing is right - both for him and for Rutgers.
“Last year, I felt like I had taken the defense as far as I could in the program and my impact at head coach was the best way I could move the program forward,” he said. “So I took the opportunity.”
Now, he’s stepping into a role that will test his system against some of the best offenses in college football. But Johansen isn’t blinking.
“I feel like I’ve done this before at USD, and the challenge to get it done in the Big Ten is a special opportunity.”
Leaving a Legacy in South Dakota
While Johansen is focused on what’s ahead, he’s also proud of what he’s leaving behind. Since 2019, he’s helped transform South Dakota into a program that commands respect - not just in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, but across the FCS landscape.
“Zero regrets,” he said. “Since 2019, we have accomplished more at USD than in any football era in history. The logo is respected nationwide.”
That transformation wasn’t just about wins and losses. It was about changing how opponents prepared for the Coyotes. Under Johansen, South Dakota became known for playing some of the most competitive and physical football in the country.
“What once was a win on the schedule is now far from that,” he said. “The program is set up to win long term and I am incredibly proud of the work we did.”
What’s Next for Rutgers
For Rutgers, the hire is about more than just Xs and Os. It’s about instilling a defensive identity that can compete in the trenches with the likes of Michigan, Penn State, and Ohio State. Johansen brings not only the schematic knowledge to do that, but the leadership qualities to build buy-in from players and staff.
His resume speaks volumes, but it’s the mindset that stands out. Johansen isn’t coming to Rutgers to maintain the status quo - he’s here to build something.
And if his past is any indication, the Scarlet Knights' defense is about to get a whole lot tougher.