San Jose State Football: New Coaches & Staff Changes for 2026 Season

San Jose State University is making significant changes to its football program following a contrasting pair of seasons. After a successful 2024 debut under Head Coach Ken Niumatalolo, which included seven wins and victories over Oregon State and Stanford, the Spartans experienced a three-win 2025 season.

Coaching Shuffle Signals New Direction

The most prominent change is the promotion of Bojay Filimoeatu to Defensive Coordinator. Filimoeatu initially joined the program two years ago as a linebackers coach and served as interim defensive coordinator for the final two games of the 2025 season before receiving the full-time position.

Extensive Coaching Background

Filimoeatu’s coaching career includes stops at San Diego State, UNLV, Utah State, and Weber State, in addition to his two stints with San Jose State. He previously played linebacker at Utah State.

Did You Know? Ken Niumatalolo is one victory away from his 120th win as an NCAA head coach.

Joining Filimoeatu on the defensive side are Brian Norwood, named Defensive Pass Game Coordinator and Cornerbacks Coach, and Joe Dale, who will coach the safeties. On offense, Ramsen Golpashin is the new line coach, Kolney Cassel has been elevated to tight ends coach, and Fred Guidici will serve as the special teams analyst.

Niumatalolo Expresses Confidence in New Staff

Coach Niumatalolo expressed strong support for the new additions and promotions. He highlighted Filimoeatu’s development under coaches like Jay Hill and Brady Hoke, noting his ability to bring a variety of defensive schemes to the program. Niumatalolo also praised Norwood’s 36 years of coaching experience and Dale’s coordinator experience.

Golpashin brings experience from the “Power Four” and the NFL, having previously worked with the Green Bay Packers, UCLA, Oregon, and Hawaii. Cassel’s familiarity with the offensive system, having played for and coached with Offensive Coordinator Craig Stutzmann, was also emphasized. Guidici is described as a veteran special teams coach with a strong connection to San Jose State.

Expert Insight: A significant coaching overhaul following a disappointing season often indicates a program’s commitment to rapid improvement and a willingness to adapt its strategies. The blend of experienced coaches like Norwood with rising stars like Filimoeatu suggests a desire for both stability and innovation.

The Spartans are scheduled to begin the 2026 season with a game at Eastern Michigan on September 5th. They will then return home for three consecutive games against Cal Poly, rival Fresno State, and Jacksonville State.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the coaching changes?

The changes followed a three-win 2025 season after a successful seven-win 2024 season under Ken Niumatalolo.

Who is the new Defensive Coordinator?

Bojay Filimoeatu has been named the new Defensive Coordinator, having previously served as linebackers coach and interim defensive coordinator.

What is the Spartans’ schedule like to start the 2026 season?

San Jose State will open the 2026 season at Eastern Michigan on September 5th, followed by three home games against Cal Poly, Fresno State, and Jacksonville State.

How might these coaching changes impact the Spartans’ performance in the upcoming season?