A Storied History Of Success

Jacksonville State Football: A Deep Dive into the Gamecocks' Legacy

A Storied History of Success

Jacksonville State University's football program holds a prominent place in college sports. With multiple national championships and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the Gamecocks have carved out a formidable reputation.

National Dominance

• Three FCS National Championships (1992, 1994, 1999)
• 19 Playoff appearances
• 13 Conference Championships

A Tradition of Winning Coaches

The Jacksonville State football program has been guided by a long lineage of exceptional coaches who have played instrumental roles in its success.

Legendary Leaders

• Don Stith (1983-1992): Led the Gamecocks to their first FCS National Championship.
• Jack Crowe (1993-2000): Won two FCS National Championships and established Jacksonville State as a national powerhouse.
• Bill Clark (2013-2021): Guided the Gamecocks to their most recent FCS National Championship in 2018.

Star Players and Memorable Moments

Over the years, Jacksonville State football has produced countless talented players and unforgettable moments that have left an enduring mark on the program.

Notable Athletes

• Jimmye Laycock: Two-time FCS All-American quarterback
• Ed Reynolds: FCS National Defensive Player of the Year in 1994
• De'Angelo Henderson: All-American running back who broke numerous school records

Defining Games

• 1992 FCS National Championship Game: Jacksonville State defeated Youngstown State 21-14 to win its first national title.
• 1999 FCS National Championship Game: The Gamecocks rallied in the final minutes to defeat Eastern Illinois 24-23.
• 2018 FCS National Championship Game: Jacksonville State defeated North Dakota State 37-10 to capture its fourth national title.

A Look to the Future

With a rich history and a promising future, Jacksonville State football is poised to continue its winning ways.

New Leadership

Following the departure of coach Bill Clark, Jacksonville State has named Rich Rodriguez as its new head coach. Rodriguez brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success at both the collegiate and professional levels.

New Era

Under the guidance of Rodriguez, the Gamecocks are entering a new era filled with potential. With a talented roster and a dedicated coaching staff, Jacksonville State has the pieces in place to compete for another FCS National Championship.