Tom Mason Position: Defensive Coordinator

Tom Mason joined the SMU coaching staff after spending seven seasons at Fresno State, where he coached linebackers.

While at Fresno, Mason developed numerous standout line backers including 2007 WAC Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Riley, 2006 first-team All-WAC honoree Dwayne Andrews and 2003 first-teamer Bryce McGill.

Mason joined the Bulldog coaching staff in 2001 after spending one season as linebackers coach with the Las Vegas Outlaws of the XFL. He also spent time in the pro ranks as receivers coach for the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League and as defensive backs coach for the Scottish Claymores of NFL Europe.

Mason also boasts an extensive collegiate resume, having served as defensive coordinator (1999) and secondary coach (1998-99) at Nevada and defensive coordinator at both Northern Iowa (1997-98) and Boise State (1993-96). At Boise, Mason helped coordinate a Bronco defense that reached the 1994 NCAA Division I-AA national championship game and then served as Boise's interim head coach from August through November 1996. Prior to his time in Boise, he was defensive coordinator at Portland State (1982-86), helping lead the Vikings to four playoff appearances and two national championship games. He also served as the linebackers coach at Eastern Washington (1981-85) and was the defensive line coach at Walla Walla (Wash.) Community College (1978-80).

As a player, Mason began his career as a linebacker at Idaho before transferring to Walla Walla (Wash.) Community College. He finished out his playing career at Nevada from 1976-77.

Mason received his bachelor's degree in physical education and a master of science degree in physical education and post-secondary education from Eastern Washington.

Mason and his wife, Jami, have a daughter, Brenna.