New RB Coach Deland McCullough Still Knows What Indiana Football Is About After His Brief Absence

Written by Zach Greene

Tom Allen hired Deland McCullough after McCullough informed Allen that he wanted back in the program.

After a brief stint with the Kanas City Chiefs 2018-2020, McCullough reached out to Allen via text after their 6-2 breakout season.

Allen was shocked after McCullough reached out to him, “That I was not expecting, to be honest with you. I was surprised. When I read it, I was like, 'seriously?'

McCullough knows the importance of a combined team effort and LEO, “It is a culture. When we talk about LEO, the next two things I always say are that I want a coaching staff and a team that does not care who gets the credit and it is not about them. “ 

McCullough coached in Bloomington before departing for USC in 2017. After one year coaching the Trojans, he transitioned to NFL and began coaching with the Kanas City Chiefs. He primarily worked with the running backs.

With his experience and tender with the Hoosiers from 2011-2016, Tom Allen knows what Mccullough brings to the table.

Before leaving for USC, McCullough was able to produce historic numbers with the Hoosier offense.

The offense averaged over 4.6 yards a carry and 2.1 touchdowns a game, according to https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/indiana/2015.html.

McCullough has also been able to produce professional talent. Tevin Coleman and Jordan Howard, both IU alums, have been able to manufacture substantial numbers in the NFL.

Coleman and Howard both average 4.2 yards per carry and have been extremely efficient.

In Bloomington, McCullough will stress detail, support, and being a good role model.

“He is such a great teacher, a great model of how you live your life, and does things with a high degree of detail, effort and focus. I am excited for him to bring that leadership to our team, the culture we have built, and the environment that we have established.”

Both Tom Allen and McCullough, who now has the title “Associate Head Coach,” will work side by side to bring a Big 10 title to b-town.

Considering the Hoosiers averaged 3.3 yards per carry with Steve Scott  and Sampson James this past season, McCullough will help open up the offense.

“We have to work. We have not done anything. We have not won the Big Ten East, and we have not won the Big Ten.”

McCullough’s experience, dedication, and determination to the team element will help the Hoosiers start their journey to Indianapolis when spring camp kicks off in two weeks.