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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 1:01 p.m., Monday, December 8, 2008

CFB: Illinois offensive coordinator becomes NM coach

By MARK EVANS
Associated Press Writer

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Illinois offensive coordinator Mike Locksley, a seasoned recruiter who helped sharpen the Illini's offense the past few years, is the new coach at New Mexico.

New Mexico athletic director Paul Krebs confirmed the move Monday. Locksley was scheduled to be introduced in Albuquerque on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old Locksley spent four years at Illinois as a coordinator, including the last three as quarterbacks coach. Though the Illini struggled last season, Locksley has been credited with building one of the Big Ten's best offenses after following Ron Zook from Florida.

Locksley replaces Rocky Long, who resigned last month after 11 seasons in New Mexico. The Lobos finished 4-8 overall, 2-6 in the Mountain West Conference.