Anna 
Bowling Green State University has announced the hiring of Eddie George as its new head football coach. The former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL star will take over the Falcons’ football program after a successful interview process that concluded Friday at the Westin at Detroit Metro Airport.
George, who has spent the past four years as the head coach at FCS Tennessee State, signed a five-year contract on Saturday, according to sources. The 51-year-old was one of three finalists for the position, along with UMass offensive coordinator Mike Bajakian and Oklahoma State quarterbacks coach Kevin Johns.
“I am truly excited to be the head coach at Bowling Green State University,” George said in a statement. “Bowling Green is a wonderful community that has embraced the school and the athletics department. We are eager to immerse ourselves in the community and help build this program to the greatness it deserves.”
George is returning to Ohio, where he had a legendary playing career at Ohio State. As a running back for the Buckeyes, he won the Heisman Trophy in 1995 after rushing for 1,927 yards and 24 touchdowns during his senior season. He went on to have a distinguished NFL career, accumulating over 10,000 rushing yards and making four Pro Bowls with the Tennessee Titans, where he remains the team’s all-time leading rusher.
In addition to his football accomplishments, George has excelled in business and academics. He earned an MBA from Northwestern University and has worked as an entrepreneur, actor, and professor. His coaching career took off at Tennessee State, where he revitalized the program and led the Tigers to their first conference title since 1999 and a playoff appearance for the first time in over a decade.
“Eddie George brings an unmatched level of passion, leadership, and excellence to this university,” said Bowling Green athletic director Derek van der Merwe. “Our students will benefit greatly from his experience both on and off the field.”
Former Bowling Green and Ohio State coach Urban Meyer also expressed support for George’s hiring. “Eddie’s track record of success, leadership, and ability to inspire will elevate BGSU football,” Meyer said.
George takes over the position from Scot Loeffler, who left Bowling Green after six seasons to become the quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Related topics: