The University of Connecticut football program continues to take shape under new head coach Jason Candle, and on Sunday, it added two more key pieces to the puzzle. Jay Anderson has been named safeties coach, while Mickey Jacobs comes on board as the new linebackers coach-two hires that bring a blend of experience, regional ties, and defensive pedigree to Storrs.
Jay Anderson: A Proven Winner with Ivy League Hardware
Anderson arrives at UConn after a highly successful stint at Yale, where he spent four seasons, the last three as co-defensive coordinator. During that time, the Bulldogs captured Ivy League titles in 2022, 2023, and 2025-an impressive run that speaks volumes about his ability to develop talent and lead a unit.
His coaching journey includes stops at Johns Hopkins, Notre Dame College, and Oberlin, where he served as head coach for six seasons. That head coaching experience gives him a broader perspective on program-building-something that could prove invaluable as Candle looks to establish a new culture at UConn.
Anderson also has a personal connection to Candle’s past. He played his college ball at Toledo, helping the Rockets reach the Motor City Bowl in back-to-back years (2001 and 2002). While he didn’t play under Candle, the Toledo tie likely played a role in bringing him into the fold.
Mickey Jacobs: Defensive Leadership from the FCS Ranks
Jacobs joins the Huskies after four seasons at Duquesne, where he spent the last two as defensive coordinator. His time with the Dukes was marked by steady defensive play, and he brings experience from larger programs as well, having coached at both Buffalo and Pitt.
Jacobs also played at Duquesne, helping guide the team to the FCS playoffs in 2015. That player-to-coach transition, especially at his alma mater, speaks to his leadership qualities and the respect he commands in the locker room.
Candle’s Staff Taking Shape
These hires continue a busy offseason for Candle, who came to UConn after a long and successful run at Toledo. He’s been methodical in assembling a staff that blends high-level experience with recruiting reach and developmental chops.
Let’s take a look at some of the other key names Candle has brought in:
- Nunzio Campanile, Offensive Coordinator Campanile spent the last three seasons at Syracuse, where he worked with quarterbacks and tight ends.
In his first year, the Orange offense exploded-breaking or tying 24 different program records, with quarterback Kyle McCord finishing in the top-10 of Heisman voting and setting a new ACC single-season passing record. That offense powered Syracuse to 10 wins and a Holiday Bowl victory in 2024.
But 2025 was a different story. After starting QB Steve Angeli went down in Week 4, the offense sputtered.
A carousel of young, unprepared quarterbacks struggled to find rhythm, and Syracuse’s scoring average dipped to just 20.2 points per game-outside the top 100 nationally.
Despite the downturn, Campanile’s track record-especially in quarterback development-is a major asset for UConn.
He also brings deep ties to New Jersey high school football, having coached at Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep, two recruiting hotbeds.
- Ryan Manalac, Defensive Coordinator A former Cincinnati linebacker, Manalac brings solid play-calling experience.
He’s previously coordinated defenses at Bucknell and Old Dominion, and most recently coached at Pitt. His resume also includes stops at Michigan State, Valparaiso, and more.
As a player, he was a steady presence for the Bearcats, logging 115 solo tackles across 51 games, with a knack for forcing turnovers. That toughness and attention to detail should translate well as he takes over the Huskies’ defense.
Other Key Staff Hires
Candle’s first staff is a deep and diverse group, with coaches who’ve worked at nearly every level of the game. Here’s a quick rundown of the rest of the team:
- Rod Chance, Pass Game Coordinator/Cornerbacks Coach
- Latroy Lewis, Defensive Line Coach
- Marquel Blackwell, Co-Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach
- Jon Morookian, Offensive Line Coach
- Nate Cole, Running Backs Coach
- Kerry Dixon, Wide Receivers Coach
- Max Wray, Tight Ends Coach
- Patrick Cashmore, Special Teams Coordinator
- Robert Weiner, Assistant Head Coach
Each of these coaches brings something unique to the table-whether it’s recruiting ties, player development skills, or schematic expertise. Together, they form a staff that’s designed to elevate UConn football into a more competitive era.
Around Campus
While Candle and his staff continue to build on the gridiron, there’s plenty of buzz around UConn athletics this week:
- UConn Women’s Basketball, ranked No. 1 in the nation, is gearing up for a marquee matchup against No. 23 Notre Dame on Monday night. The Irish have had the Huskies’ number lately, winning the last three meetings, so expect this one to have a little extra edge.
- UConn Men’s Basketball is also rolling. The Huskies are 18-1 overall and a perfect 8-0 in conference play. They just edged out Georgetown in a 64-62 nail-biter and will return to action Saturday against Villanova.
With both basketball teams in top form and a football staff full of promise, it’s an exciting time in Storrs. Jason Candle’s vision for UConn football is starting to take shape-and with experienced hires like Anderson and Jacobs now in the fold, the foundation is getting stronger by the day.