CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois Head Football Coach Lovie Smith announced today that Miles Smith has been elevated from graduate assistant to assistant coach working with defensive backs.

"Adding Miles to the full-time staff gives us continuity at those positions for this year, and allows for our staff to continue their original responsibilities," Lovie Smith said. "I'm very proud to be able to work with my son, but, most importantly, he'll be an excellent leader for the young men he coaches."

Smith is a 2013 graduate of Lake Forest College and spent the 2014 and 2015 seasons as a defensive quality control coach with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The youngest son of Lovie Smith, Miles was working with outside linebackers and nickel defensive back in his first season as a graduate assistant coach for the Fighting Illini.

Smith's interim appointment ends Jan. 31, 2019. A full search for a permanent replacement at the position will be conducted at the end of the 2018 football season.