Cal Defensive Coordinator Michael Hutchings Returns Home To The Bay

The De La Salle product will get his first defensive playcalling opportunity with the California Golden Bears.

Credit: Cal Football

Michael Hutchings is back in the Bay Area and leaning on both personal roots and program identity as he takes over the defense for the California Golden Bears entering spring practice.

A De La Salle High School product, Hutchings described the opportunity as a return home after years away in coaching.

“It’s a great opportunity. Being local and a native here is special. It’s almost like a full-circle moment.”

Hutchings said his connection to the program dates back to childhood, when he followed former Cal standouts like Aaron Rodgers, DeSean Jackson and J. J. Arrington.

“You grew up watching those guys. Knowing the history of the place, guys you idolized as a kid, that’s what stands out.”

On the field, Hutchings said his defensive approach will mirror the program-wide pillars established by head coach Tosh Lupoi, emphasizing effort, execution, and cohesion over scheme.

“Relentless effort, ball excellence, power of unit, those are the things that need to jump off the screen. That’s what the defense will look like.”

Rather than focusing on specific schemes, Hutchings pointed to play style and identity as the defining traits he wants opponents to see on film.

“When somebody turns on the tape, those are the things that need to stand out first. Really just play style and how we approach our job.”

Hutchings also credited the program’s push to reconnect with alumni as a key factor in building culture during the offseason.

“It’s been huge this winter. It’s about team building, bringing people together, creating camaraderie and relationships.”

Former players such as Marshawn Lynch and Cam Jordan have spoken to the team, sharing experiences from their careers and reinforcing the program’s expectations.

“Just hearing those guys’ journeys, how they stayed on top of things, what they went through, it adds to our guys’ experience.”

Like offensive coordinator Jordan Somerville, Hutchings is stepping into a coordinator role for the first time, acknowledging the adjustment that comes with it.

“Any time you’re doing something for the first time, there’s going to be a learning curve. There’s some stuff you can’t simulate when you’re not in that seat.”

He said having Lupoi’s experience, particularly on defense, will be a key resource throughout the transition.

“You’ve got Tosh in the room. He’s led a top defense the last few years. He’s an open door. We’ve had plenty of conversations about how to approach it.”

Hutchings added that his development has also been shaped by previous coaching stops, blending those influences with Lupoi’s guidance as he settles into the role.

“Combining the people I’ve worked for, having Tosh in the building, you’re learning on the job as you go.”

As spring begins, Hutchings said the focus will remain on establishing identity and evaluating how players respond within the system.

“Really just taking the necessary steps and building it the right way.”