CSUN NOTEBOOK: CSUN PICKS COORDINATOR.

Byline: Jill Painter Staff Writer

The Cal State Northridge search for a defensive coordinator began and ended in its own office. Dave Robinson, the team's associate head coach and defensive-line coach the last two seasons, has been promoted to defensive coordinator. Robinson, 37, will continue to oversee the line as well.

Former defensive coordinator Foster Andersen recently resigned to pursue other interests, according to coach Jeff Kearin. Andersen was at CSUN for five years.

``I'm excited about it,'' Robinson said. ``It's been fun so far. I'm pretty excited with the guys we've recruited, if all of them can come in and learn our stuff.''

Robinson and Kearin worked together at USC. Robinson coached tight ends and then linebackers at USC when his dad, John Robinson, was coach, beginning in 1993. After five years at USC, Robinson went to College of the Desert - his second stint - for one year before joining Kearin's staff in 1999.

``His philosophy is pretty consistent with what we've been doing,'' Kearin said. ``It was an easy decision. Dave and I are good friends. It was a simple, easy transition. I think the kids, as well as the staff, have a lot of confidence in him and his experience.''

Northridge has lately been known for its offense, not its defense. Last year, the offense struggled early, but the defense was outstanding. But while the offense improved late in the season, the defense struggled, evidenced by a 64-61 loss to Sacramento State.

CSUN should have more speed to work with on defense, but the schemes won't change.

``I think everything will be similar,'' Robinson said. ``I think we'll add some things in personnel groupings. I think we're just going to try to be consistent. Actually, I think that's the biggest thing.''

Linebackers Cos Abercrombie and Lewis Blanton return for their senior seasons and linebacker Ben Lorier will be a sophomore. Defensive backs Travis Campbell, Martin Bacon and Steve Paysinger return. The area of concern is the defensive line, although Robinson said those needs were addressed in recruiting.

--Youngs MIA: Offensive lineman Jason Youngs, a transfer from Mississippi, was CSUN's first recruit to sign. And he's the first to leave. Youngs never showed up for spring practice, which started last week.

No one has heard from Youngs, according to Kearin. Youngs, who played for College of the Canyons for two years, cannot return to the team, Kearin said.

--Academically ineligible: Linebacker Ben Lorier and defensive backs Steve Paysinger and Marcus Hardrick are academically ineligible and cannot compete in spring drills.

--Injury report: Receiver Jason Stone sprained the middle finger on his left hand but is expected to be OK. Stone will compete in limited drills.

--Brady's stock rises: Quarterback Marcus Brady ran the 40 in 4.51 seconds for NFL scouts last week. Brady considered entering this year's NFL draft but decided to stay for his senior year. Receivers Drew Amerson, D.J. Hackett and Jason Stone ran the 40 in the 4.6-second range.

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Photo: DAVID ROBINSON

CSUN promotes former defensive-line coach to defensive coordinator.