[StanfordMatt]

If I'm remembering correctly, Derek Mason was co-defensive coordinator as well as associate head coach in 2011 under Shaw so you could potentially just add him without any firings or demotions, but that being said it might not be a great look after cutting a bunch of sports programs due to financial concerns, to add what is likely an expensive coach/coordinator.

This is incorrect. The NCAA caps the number of on-field assistants at FBS programs to 10, with the exception of service academies. As I mentioned in another thread, any scenario in which Mason returns would probably involve Akina retiring given Shaw’s reluctance to fire assistants (i.e. not firing a single one in 10 years).

[StanfordMatt]

If I'm remembering correctly, Derek Mason was co-defensive coordinator as well as associate head coach in 2011 under Shaw so you could potentially just add him without any firings or demotions, but that being said it might not be a great look after cutting a bunch of sports programs due to financial concerns, to add what is likely an expensive coach/coordinator.

This is incorrect. The NCAA caps the number of on-field assistants at FBS programs to 10, with the exception of service academies. As I mentioned in another thread, any scenario in which Mason returns would probably involve Akina retiring given Shaw’s reluctance to fire assistants (i.e. not firing a single one in 10 years).