Kines retiring from coaching

— Texas A&M defensive coordinator Joe Kines is retiring, concluding a coaching career that spans four decades.

Kines, 65, is a former Arkansas Razorbacks head coach and assistant and worked for the Aggies under Mike Sherman for the past two seasons. A&M lost 44-20 to Georgia in the Independence Bowl on Monday night to wrap up a 6-7 season.

The Aggies’ defense ranked 107th in the nation (431.33 yards per game) this season. Last year, A&M’s defense ranked 114th (462 yards per game).

“I am a man of faith and family, and I feel like it is time for me to retire,” Kines said. “I came here to help, and I hope I have helped a little. I wish we would have had a little more success.

“I really want to thank the players, because they gave me and the staff everything they had and did everything we asked. As with all of the players I have coached, I will keep an eye on them and wish them the very best.”

Kines’ career included two stints at Arkansas (1976, 1991-94) and Alabama (1985-86, 2003-06). In 2005, the Crimson Tide ranked first nationally in scoring defense and second in total defense.

Sports, Pages 21 on 12/31/2009

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