Isu Picks Ex-Raiders Aide

Former Los Angeles Raiders offensive coordinator Thomas Walsh brings Super Bowl experience to his new job as head football coach at Idaho State University, athletic director Irv Cross has announced.

Walsh replaces Brian McNeely, who resigned Nov. 25 after five years and a 21-34 record.

The monthlong search came down to Walsh and former Navy and Marshall University coach George Chaump. Cross said Walsh’s availability was the difference.

“We have the original item here,” Cross said. “Walsh seemed to be ready to go at a moment’s notice. He already has a staff in place.”

Walsh did not attend Monday’s press conference because of his commitments as an analyst for CBS Radio, where he has worked since leaving the Raiders in 1995.

Al Roberts, an assistant coach at the University of Washington, agreed to become the Cincinnati Bengals’ special teams coach.

Roberts is the first new assistant to join Bruce Coslet’s staff. Coslet fired four defensive coaches last week and offered special teams coach Joe Wessel a different assignment.

Roberts was the special teams coach under Coslet with the New York Jets from 1990-93.