Louisville running backs coach Tony Alford has accepted a similar position at Notre Dame.

The 40-year-old Akron, Ohio, native was on the staff at Louisville the past two years, following stints as running backs coach at Mount Union, Kent State, Washington and Iowa State.

He replaces Mike Haywood, who was named head coach at Miami of Ohio in December after four seasons on the Irish staff.

Under Alford’s direction last season, Louisville averaged 164.5 yards rushing, and redshirt freshman Victor Anderson ran for 1,047 yards and was named Big East rookie of the year.

Alford was a running back at Colorado State and played for Birmingham in the World League of American Football in 1992.