In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the college football world, Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk is set to be appointed as the new head coach at Southern University.
Hall of Famer Heads Home
The groundbreaking news was first revealed by local television station WAFB9 on Wednesday. Faulk, a New Orleans native, will return to his home state of Louisiana to take the helm at the Baton Rouge-based HBCU (Historically Black College or University). This appointment sees him replace Terrence Graves, who was fired as the Jaguars' coach last month following a dismal 1-6 start to the season.
Faulk's move comes after he just completed his first season coaching college football under the guidance of fellow Hall of Famer Deion Sanders at the University of Colorado. An official announcement confirming his new role is scheduled for Monday, December 1. Reports indicate that a prominent university donor was instrumental in spearheading the move to bring the football legend to Southern.
A Legendary Playing Career
Marshall Faulk is not just any former player; he is one of the most decorated running backs in the history of the sport. His illustrious NFL career is highlighted by a remarkable 2000 season where he claimed the MVP award and won the Super Bowl with the then-St. Louis Rams.
His list of accolades is extraordinary:
- Three-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year
- Seven-time Pro Bowler
- 12,279 career rushing yards
- 100 career touchdowns
His excellence began in college, where he was a two-time All-America running back at San Diego State. This prowess earned him a double induction into football's most prestigious halls, entering the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017, six years after his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
A New Challenge in Baton Rouge
The 52-year-old Faulk takes over a Southern Jaguars programme in need of a turnaround. The team currently holds a 1-10 record and will conclude its regular season this Saturday against Grambling State in the Bayou Classic. Graves' dismissal came less than a year after he guided the team to an eight-win season and an appearance in the SWAC championship game.
After retiring from playing, Faulk initially worked as an analyst for the NFL Network. He only recently transitioned into coaching, a move he credited directly to Deion Sanders. In an interview with ESPN back in August, Faulk admitted, "If it wasn't for Coach Prime [Sanders], I would not even try this. This wasn't even on my list of things to do in the least way." He also reflected on the immense dedication he had as a player, putting in "crazy hours... to become the student of the game that I was."
This appointment marks a significant new chapter for both Marshall Faulk and the Southern University football programme, as a proven winner brings his expertise to an HBCU eager for success.
