St. Louis Legend Marshall Faulk Heads to Southern University

St. Louis Rams icon Marshall Faulk is taking on a new challenge, reportedly accepting the head coaching position at Southern University. This move marks Faulk’s first head coaching role in college football, bringing his legendary NFL experience to an HBCU program.

Faulk’s New Coaching Venture at Southern

For fans in St. Louis, Marshall Faulk is a celebrated figure from the “Greatest Show on Turf” era, a dynamic force who helped secure a Super Bowl title for the Rams. This gridiron legend is now embarking on a new chapter, reportedly finalizing a three-year deal to become the head coach of Southern University. This move brings Faulk back closer to his New Orleans roots, with Baton Rouge establishing a prominent link between one of football’s greats and a storied Historically Black College and University (HBCU) program in the SWAC.

Faulk’s unparalleled playing career began with three standout seasons at San Diego State, leading to his No. 2 overall selection in the 1994 NFL Draft. Over 12 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams, he redefined the running back position. His pinnacle came in 2000, earning NFL MVP honors with the Rams, accumulating 1,359 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. A Super Bowl XXXIV champion and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee in 2011, Faulk’s playing legacy is firmly etched, and he now aims to build a new one on the sidelines.

A Growing Trend: NFL Stars Coaching HBCUs

Marshall Faulk’s move to Southern University continues an inspiring movement: former NFL stars are increasingly coaching at HBCUs. This trend, exemplified by figures like Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson, and Deion Sanders, brings unprecedented national attention and investment to these vital institutions. These high-profile coaches serve as powerful mentors and draw significant media spotlight, which can translate into improved recruiting, increased funding, and a renewed sense of pride for HBCU athletic programs and their communities.

Faulk’s Path to Head Coach

Before this new role, Faulk served as the running backs coach for Deion Sanders at the University of Colorado this past season—his first coaching position since retiring as a player. While his time at Colorado saw the Buffaloes struggle with a 3-8 record, his past as an NFL Network analyst ended in 2017 amid a sexual harassment scandal. His focus now shifts entirely to leading the Southern Jaguars.

The Challenge Ahead at Southern

Faulk steps into a program facing considerable challenges. Southern University finished its current season with a difficult 1-10 record, enduring nine consecutive losses. The coaching change follows the dismissal of Terrence Graves in October after a 1-6 start, making Faulk the fifth different head coach since Dawson Odums’ departure in 2020. Taking over a team in need of stability and a competitive edge, Faulk’s task will involve instilling a winning culture, rebuilding the program, and re-engaging a passionate fanbase. His veteran presence and deep understanding of the game will be crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Marshall Faulk?
  Marshall Faulk is a Pro Football Hall of Famer and former NFL running back, celebrated for his dynamic play and MVP season with the St. Louis Rams. He recently served as the running backs coach at the University of Colorado.
• What is Southern University?
  Southern University is an Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Its football team competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and boasts a rich athletic history.
• What is Faulk’s new role?
  Marshall Faulk has reportedly accepted a three-year deal to become the head coach of the Southern University football team, marking his inaugural head coaching position in college football.
• Why is this move significant for HBCU football?
  Faulk’s hiring, along with other former NFL stars, brings immense national recognition, attracts top talent, and generates increased resources and excitement for Historically Black College and University football programs across the country.
• What kind of impact might Faulk have at Southern?
  Given his legendary playing career and recent coaching experience, Faulk brings instant credibility and a high-performance mindset. He is expected to invigorate the program, improve recruitment, and work towards restoring Southern’s winning tradition.

As a beloved figure in St. Louis sports history, Marshall Faulk’s journey into head coaching at Southern University is one to watch. His leadership could bring renewed energy and attention to a program and a league gaining national prominence.

St Louis Legend Marshall Faulk Heads to Southern University