2003 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Finalist
1999 Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year

Entering his 12th year as head coach of the Northern Arizona football program, Jerome Souers, the dean of the Big Sky Conference coaches, has taken the Lumberjack program to new heights.

Under Souers NAU made a record-breaking NCAA I-AA Quarterfinal appearance in 2003, won the first Big Sky Conference title since 1978, recorded two playoff berths and posted seven winning seasons. During his 11-year tenure, Souers has coached 90 student-athletes to all-conference honors a combined 142 times with 34 first-team selections and 36 All-Americans accolades.

Souers, who was named the 1999 Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year in a vote by his colleagues, also has the Lumberjacks posting impressive results in the classroom. The football program has produced the Golden Eagle Scholar Athlete of the Year six times in the last nine years (Blair Boynton, Eric Damko, Steve Gomez, Mark Gould, Paul Ernster and Jeff Wheeler) and had seven student-athletes named to the 2008 Big Sky Fall All-Academic team. Overall, 50 student-athletes have earned 88 Big Sky academic honors over the last 11 seasons. There have also been five Academic All-Americans, as well.

But there is still work ahead. After finishing third in the league in 2007, the Lumberjacks are ready to contend again this season. Souers, who has coached a national champion, strives everyday to get his Lumberjack program in position to play for the title not just a playoff appearance or high ranking. And the 2003 season was his best effort to date, earning him finalist honors for the 2003 Eddie Robinson Award, an award presented by The Sports Network to the top head coach in I-AA football.

Behind the play of true freshman Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year Jason Murrietta, the Lumberjacks upset top-seeded McNeese State on the road and played host to the first home playoff game since 1996 with a quarterfinal appearance against Florida Atlantic. NAU finished ranked 10th in the national polls as Souers’ players were honored on and off the field for their performances. Eighteen players were recognized with All-Big Sky honors highlighted by first-team All-America accolades for punter Mark Gould, who was recognized by five different organizations. Gould led the accolades off the field, too. He was a CoSIDA Academic All-America selection for the second consecutive season as NAU led the nation with five CoSIDA academic all-district selections.

In 2006, Murrietta led a reemergence that produced significant improvements in the offensive production, resulting in a winning season with six wins and ranking among the top turnarounds in the country. Murrietta had a stellar senior season highlighted by a runner-up finish for the Walter Payton Award, All-America honors and his second Big Sky Conference Offensive Player of the Year award. He threw for 2,827 yards with a 65.0 completion percentage and a school-record 34 touchdowns, leading the Big Sky in passing efficiency (168.2) and total offense (243.1), while ranking fifth and 11th nationally.

Souers arrived in Flagstaff after spending 12 years at Montana with a proven track record. His last eight seasons in Missoula he served as defensive coordinator. During his stay with the Grizzlies, Montana was transformed from a Big Sky also-ran into a perennial league and national title contender. Souers’ tenure in Missoula produced 12 straight winning seasons, seven playoff berths, four appearances in the national semifinals, a national runner-up finish (1996) and a national title (1995). Montana won three Big Sky titles during that span.
Souers showed his winning touch from the start in January 1998 when he took over a program in limbo, becoming the first NAU coach since Dwain Painter in 1979 to begin his career with a winning record.

Despite dressing only 44 players for his first spring practice, including walk-ons, Souers led the Lumberjacks to a winning season. Highlights from Souers’ first season at NAU included the Lumberjacks’ first shutout of a Division I opponent (NAU 9, Cal Poly 0) in 31 games, two near road victories against league title contenders Eastern Washington and Montana State and a season-ending two-game winning streak.

In 2001, the Lumberjacks posted one of the nation's most improved records, recording an 8-4 mark to tie for second place in the Big Sky Conference. NAU earned a berth in the I-AA playoffs for the second time in school history before dropping a 34-31 decision at Sam Houston State in the first round.

The success of the NAU football team in 2001 was evident in the accolades bestowed on the program. Fifteen student-athletes were recognized with All-Big Sky Conference honors. All-Big Sky first-team selections linebacker Keith O'Neil signed as a free agent with the Dallas Cowboys and recently won a Super Bowl title with the Indianapolis Colts in his fourth year in the NFL. Senior tackle Eric Damko was named to the Verizon Academic All-America squad for the second consecutive season.

Jerome Souers was born May 20, 1958, in Oregon. He attended North Eugene High School, along with another future coach, Danny Ainge of the Phoenix Suns.

He began his coaching career while still attending Oregon. Souers spent time on the staff at North Eugene High School and Williamette, working in the same area of the state where his father, Dwight, was a successful prep coach. Souers earned his degree in physical education in 1983 and upon graduation returned to the high-school ranks. He spent eight years coaching in Oregon high schools before making the move into college football.

In 1984 he made his foray into the collegiate ranks, joining the staff at Western Washington where he coordinated the defense and coached the defensive backs.

A year later, Souers joined Don Read’s staff at then-Division II Portland State. After one year serving as the Viking's running backs coach, Souers followed Read to Montana.

With Souers coaching the secondary, the new staff in Missoula produced records of 6-4 and 6-5 during its first two years. A hint of things to come came in 1988 when the Grizzlies went 8-4 and led the Big Sky Conference in all defensive categories.

In 1989, Souers added defensive coordinator to his duties and the Grizzlies posted an 11-2 record with an appearance in the national semifinals. Montana also tied a national interception record in one game with 10 picks vs. Boise State. A year later, the Grizzlies opened the 1990 campaign with a 22-15 road win at Oregon State.

During Souers’ nine years as defensive coordinator at Montana, the Grizzlies twice ranked among the nation’s top-10 in rushing defense, finishing third in the country in that category in 1992. His last unit in Missoula led the Big Sky Conference in scoring defense.

The peak years during Souers’ stay at Montana came from 1993 to 1996. During that period, the Grizzlies made four straight playoff appearances, played in three semifinals and two national title games. The 1995 squad won the national title and the 1996 team was the NCAA runner-up. The four-year record for Montana during that time was 48-8.

During the national title run, Souers’ defense became the first in NCAA history to post consecutive playoff shutouts (Eastern Kentucky and Georgia Southern).

He coached six All-America defensive backs at Montana, including future NFL stars Tim Hauck of the Seattle Seahawks and Blaine McElmurry of the Green Bay Packers.

In 1996, when head coach Mick Dennehy was sidelined after undergoing major surgery, Souers stepped in as head coach and led the Grizzlies to victories over Cal State Northridge and Portland State.

Souers and his wife, Paula, have two daughters, Anna (21) and Alaina (19). He will begin his second season on the AFCA FCS All-America Team Selection Committee in 2009.

All-Americans (17 Student-Athletes, 36 Honors)
Afa Faraimo (1998), Eric Damko (2000*, 2001*), Robbie Dehaze (2007, 2008), Shaun Fitzpatrick (2007), K.J. Gerard (2007, 2008), Mark Gould (2001*, 2002, 2002*, 2003, 2003*), Chris Hunsaker (2006), Cyrus Igono (2007), Cedric Jones (1999), Rhian Madrid (2006), Jason Murrietta (2006), Keith O’Neil (2002), Ray Perryman (1999, 2000), Matt Raivio (2003), Francis St. Paul (1999), Alex Watson (2006), Ricky Wilson (2007).
* Academic All-American

All-Big Sky Selections (90 Student-Athletes, 142 Honors)
Derek Allen (2nd, 1998), Kacey Allen (2nd, 1999), Brandon Anthony (HM, 2005), George Asalele (HM, 2002), Michael Battisti (HM, 2008), Kawika Batoon (HM, 2000), Ed Berry (HM, 2008), Blair Boynton (HM, 2007), Bruce Branch (1st, 2003; HM, 2005), Travis Brown (HM, 1999), Matt Cary (HM, 2003), Pete Cich (2nd, 2001), Jake Crissup (1st, 1999; 2nd, 1998), Eric Damko (HM, 2001; 2nd, 2000, HM, 1999), Cleve Dansby (HM, 1999), Robbie Dehaze (HM, 2006; 2nd, 2007, HM, 2007; 1st, 2008, 1st, 2008), Cody Dowd (HM, 2007; 2nd, 2008), Geoff Ducksworth (HM, 2005), Paul Ernster (1st, 2004), Anthony Evans (HM, 2008), Afa Faraimo (1st, 1998), Shaun Fitzpatrick (1st, 2006; 2nd, 2007), Steve Fontana (2nd, 1999), Sean Funke (HM, 2003), K.J. Gerard (HM, 2004; 2nd, 2005; 1st, 2007; 1st, 2008), Mike Goldstein (2nd, 1998), Steve Gomez (2nd, 2002; 2nd, 2001), Mark Gould (1st, 2003; 2nd, 2002; 2nd, 2001), Ian Gunderman (HM, 2004; HM, 2003), Doug Harding (HM, 2003), Robert Haws (1st, 2001), Trevor Heekin (HM, 2008), Alex Henderson (2nd, 2006; HM, 2007), Vince Henman (1st, 2004, HM, 2004, HM, 2003), Drew Hoffman (HM, 2006; HM, 2007), Ryne Holstrom (HM, 2007), Chris Hunsaker (1st, 2006; HM, 2005), Cyrus Igono (1st, 2007); HM, 2007), Eric Iverson (2nd, 2004), Jason Jacobs (HM, 2003), Ronney Jenkins (2nd, 1999), Cedric Jones (1st, 1999), Kaaina Keawe (2nd, 2002; 2nd, 2001), Malachi Keddington (HM, 2000), Marcus King (HM, 2001; HM, 2000), Lance Kriesien (HM, 2007), Keala Loo (HM, 2002; 2nd, 2001), Josh Luck (HM, 2007), Rhian Madrid (1st, 2006; 1st, 2005), Pisa Magele (HM, 2001), Kenny Mahone (HM, 2006), Kory Mahr (HM, 2004; 2nd, 2005), Johnny Marshall (1st, 2003; HM, 2002; HM, 2001), Conrad Meadows (HM, 2008), Kevin Meagher (HM, 2006; HM, 2008), Skyler Moore (HM, 2006; HM, 2008), David Moran (2nd, 1999), Clarence Moore (1st, 2003; 1st, 2002; HM, 2001), Jason Murrietta (1st, 2006; 2nd, 2004, 1st, 2003), Stephen Nwogbe (1st, 2008), Enrique Olson (2nd, 1998), Keith O’Neil (1st, 2002; 1st, 2001), Dusty Peace (2nd, 2001), John Perrigo (HM, 2004; HM, 2003), Ray Perryman (1st, 2000; 1st, 1999), Jake Petersen (HM, 1999), Kris Poindexter (HM, 2008), Nick Posey (HM, 2007), Matt Raivio (1st, 2003; 1st, 2002), Kyle Rath (HM, 2008), Tim Reader (HM, 2007), Brian Riley (HM, 2008), Roger Robinson (2nd, 2004; HM, 2004; 1st, 2003), Jake Sanders (HM, 2004, HM, 2003), Shane Sandau (HM, 2006), Mike Sands (1st, 2002), Lionel Scott (HM, 2007), Lynne Ray Smith (HM, 1999), Francis St. Paul (HM, 2000; 1st, 1999), Stevon Thomas (HM, 2008), Jeremy Thornburg (1st, 2004; HM, 2003), Ryan Thornton (HM, 2002), Jon Toailoa (HM, 2006; HM, 2007), Nick Yerton (HM, 2001; 2nd, 2000; HM, 1999), DJ Wade (HM, 2006), Alex Watson (1st, 2006; HM, 2005; 2nd, 2007), Jeff Wheeler (HM, 2006), Deonte Williams (HM, 2008), Ricky Wilson (2nd, 2006; 1st, 2007), Tom Winn (2nd, 2003; HM, 2002), Adam Wright (HM, 2008).

Big Sky All-Academic Selections (50 Student-Athletes, 88 Honors)
Michael Battisti (2008), Brent Berge (1999), Blair Boynton (2005, 2007), Brian Buzzard (2003), Jake Crissup (1998, 1999), Michael Czyz (2008), Eric Damko (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001), Brent Daniels (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003), Nate Dedic (2006, 2007), Robbie Dehaze (2007, 2008), Thomas Dolan (1998), Paul Ernster (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004), Patrick Finkbone (2001, 2003), Shaun Fitzpatrick (2005, 2006, 2007), Steven Fontana (1998, 1999), Trevor Gates (2008), Steve Gomez (2000, 2001, 2002), Mark Gould (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003), Justin Grimm (2004, 2005), Ian Gunderman (2001), Vince Henman (2003, 2004), Drew Hoffman (2007), Tautua Howell-Reed (2004), Malachi Keddington (1998, 2001), Randy Kirschman (2003, 2004), Quinton Larson (2006), Greg Laybourn (2004), Joseph Lyman (2006, 2007), Austin Martin (2005, 2006), Scott McKeever (2007), Richard Middleton (2007), Lance Moore (1998), Jason Murrietta (2006), Dustin Peace (2000, 2001), Dan Pela (2008), Matt Raivio (2003), Nick Ragland-Johnsen (2008), Mike Sands (2002), Jake Sanders (2003), Jeff Singleton (2004, 2005), Sean Sovacool (2004), Ryan Thornton (2000), Micah Van Hilson (2006), Nels Van Peursem (2002), D,J. Wade (2005), Patrick Walsh (2000, 2001, 2003), Bobby Walish (2007, 2008), Jason Webb (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005), Jeff Wheeler (2003), Josh Wells (1999), Clint Womack (2002), Nick Yerton (2001).

Brian Lindgren begins his second season as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in his fifth overall on the offensive staff at Northern Arizona University.

He originally joined the program as a graduate assistant for the 2006 season and coached the wide receivers.  He was promoted to the full-time staff in 2007 and coached the running backs before serving as passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2008.

The offense had a breakout season in 2009 in his second season calling the plays. Overall, NAU ranked fifth in the country in passing offense (308.6) and total offense (439.5) and ninth in passing efficiency (147.8), helping nine players garner all-conference accolades.

Lindgren produced Walter Payton Award finalist Michael Herrick, recording two of the top four, four of the top 21 single-game passing performances in school history and the top two single-game passing totals in Walkup Skydome history in 2009. He threw for a school record 574 yards and four touchdowns against Eastern Washington, shattering the school record of 474 set by Travis Brown against Montana in 1996. An All-Big Sky second team selection, Herrick ranked third in the Big Sky and 15th in the nation in passing efficiency at 149.5 and second in the Big Sky and sixth in the nation in total offense (298.3).

Running back Alex Henderson, who earned All-Big Sky first-team honors, ranked sixth in the nation in rushing per game, while wide receiver Ed Berry, whose 75 receptions and 1,075 yards are among the top-five single-season totals in school  history, was an All-American and ranked among the national top 10 in receptions per game and receiving yards.

In his first season as offensive coordinator in 2008, NAU gained 772 yards of total offense against the New Mexico Highlands, shattering the school record set in 1989 against Nevada of 674. It was the highest single-game total in the FCS and second overall in all Division I last season. The offensive unit produced the Big Sky Newcomer of the Year and eight All-Big Sky selections while ranking 23^rd in the nation in total offense.

During the 2007 season the running backs were one of the most productive units in the Big Sky Conference, ranking 13^th in the nation overall. NAU led the league in rushing by more than 50 yards per game while producing three players who ranked among the top 100 rushers in the Football Championship Subdivision, the only school to accomplish the feat. Both Alex Henderson (82.5 yards per game) and Lionel Scott (74.7) earned All-Big Sky honors.

During the 2006 season Lindgren tutored the wide receiving corp into productive group that helped NAU rank first in scoring offense (34.4 points per game) and total offense (405.1) in the Big Sky Conference, fifth and sixth respectively on the national charts. Junior Alex Watson was named a consensus first-team All-American by the Walter Camp Foundation, Sports Network, Associated Press and College Sporting News (Fabulous FCS 50), He recorded a team-best and school-record 82 receptions for 1,017 yards and a school-record 15 touchdowns. Sophomore Skyler Moore and junior Kenny Mahone combined for another 79 receptions, 1,161 yards and 15 touchdowns, earning All-Big Sky Conference honorable mention honors.

Lindgren graduated in 2004 from the University of Idaho where he received his bachelor of science in business and marketing.  Lindgren was a three-year letterwinner from 1999-03 and was voted as the team captain in 2002.  He was first team All-Sun Belt Conference at quarterback in 2002.  Lindgren also holds school records for passing touchdowns in a single game (6), most yards passing in a single game (637), and most completions in a single game (49).  He also set the NCAA record for the most total offensive yards by a sophomore (657).  Lindgren accumulated 6,451 yards passing and 44 touchdowns in his three-year career.

Lindgren received academic All-Sun Belt Conference honors from 2001-03.  He was also awarded the Kathy Clark Scholar Athlete Award which is given to the highest GPA out of the graduating seniors. Lindgren recently earned his master’s degree in educational leadership from NAU in 2007.

Prior to NAU, Lindgren also served as quarterbacks coach at the University of Redlands in 2005. He is married to the former Bradee Fitzpatrick. They had their first child Bronson Fitz Lindgren in July, 2009.

Brian Lindgren, Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks

Born: August 6, 1980

College: University of Idaho, 2004; Northern Arizona University, 2007       

Playing Experience: University of Idaho, 1999-2003

Family: Wife, Bradee Fitzpatrick and son, Bronson.            

Recruiting Areas: East Phoenix (Mesa), Southern California (Ventura Co. / San Fernando Valley)

Lindgren’s Coaching Chronology

2005                University of Redlands, Quarterbacks

2006                Northern Arizona University, Wide Receivers

2007                Northern Arizona University, Running Backs

2008                Northern Arizona University, Passing Game Coordinator/Quarterbacks

2009-Pres.       Northern Arizona University, Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks

Andy Thompson begins his second season as the defensive coordinator and fourth overall as the linebackers coach at Northern Arizona University. He is entering his sixth season overall on the staff after spending his first two seasons across the line of scrimmage directing the running backs.

Thompson was promoted to defensive coordinator prior to the 2009 season, replacing longtime coordinator Corey Batoon. The Lumberjacks played hard throughout the season despite dealing with 14 student-athletes missing games during the season due to injury. The Lumberjacks ranked third in the Big Sky and 35^th in the nation in rushing defense, holding opponents to less than 100 yards rushing five times. NAU was at its best in conference games, ranking second overall allowing 352.9 yards per game against the Big Sky.

Returning senior Matt Estrada led six defensive players on the All-Big Sky team, including linebackers Stevon Thomas (second), who ranked second on the team in tackles with 75, and Reid Worthington (HM).

Thompson helped tutor a defense that led the FCS and ranked second in Division I overall in rushing defense allowing just 59.8 yards per game in 2008. NAU held four opponents to negative yards rushing and a fifth to just 21 on the game. For the season, NAU allowed 658 yards on 307 carries (2.1 yards per carry) with 99 plays for zero or negative yardage on the season, including 72 for a loss on the season.  It reset the NAU and Big Sky Conference records for rushing defense and yards allowed in a season.

Thompson’s linebackers were among the tackle leaders on the squad, producing four of the top 10 tacklers led by Anthony Llanos. Cody Dowd earned All-Big Sky second team honors, while Stevon Thomas was an honorable mention selection.

He helped coach the special teams in 2007-08. The Lumberjacks ranked fourth in the nation in net punting and led the Big Sky Conference in kickoff coverage in 2007.

In his first season on the defensive staff, the linebackers were led by the 55 tackles by Joe Lyman. Sophomore Cody Dowd earned All-Biog Sky honorable mention accolades, recording four tackles for loss among 35 tackles.

Thompson led a solid backfield group in 2006 that played a vital role in the offensive success of the squad. The Lumberjacks ranked second in the Big Sky in rushing per game at 137.9 with a league-best 3.9 yards per carry. NAU ranked first in scoring offense (34.4 points per game) and total offense (405.1), listed fifth and sixth respectively on the national charts.

Redshirt freshman Alex Henderson was a standout under Thompson’s tutelage in 2006, earning Big Sky Conference Newcomer of the Year accolades. He was the first Lumberjack to capture the honor since former Payton Award winner Archie Amerson garnered the distinction in 1995.

Henderson, who became the first freshman in school history to rush for 1,000 yards in a season, led the team in rushing with 1,016 rushing yards on 189 carries with five touchdowns. He led the conference in all purpose yards with a 126.3 per game average, the 30^th-best total in the nation, and posted four 100-yard rushing games on the season highlighted by his 265-yard, two-touchdown performance at Eastern Washington, ranking as the seventh-best single-game rushing total in school history

Thompson joined the NAU staff in 2005 as a graduate assistant, assisting with the running backs and other program related duties before being promoted to full-time status in 2006.

In his first season, senior Philo Sanchez led the team in rushing with 579 yards and two touchdowns. Classmate Ryan Williams led the team with three rushing touchdowns.

He most recently coached at Eastern Oregon in 2004. He tutored Nick Hannaw, a linebacker who signed as a free agent with the Indianapolis Colts. His special team punt and kickoff return units both ranked among the NAIA top 10.

A native of Walla Walla, Wash., Thompson played for Montana for four seasons (1999, 2001-03). He helped the Grizzlies to five Big Sky Championships and one national championship (2001) during his five-year career in Missoula. He played in 44 career games with 103 total tackles, including 8.5 tackles for loss.

Thompson, 30, graduated with a degree in health enhancement from Montana in May 2004. He married the former Mikal Mickleson of Missoula, Mont., in the summer of 2008.

Andy Thompson, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers

Born: April 30, 1980

College: Montana, 2004.      

Playing Experience: Montana, 1999, 2001-03

Family: Married to the former Mikal Mickleson.            

Recruiting Areas: Inland Empire (Calif.), Oregon.

Thompson’s Coaching Chronology

2004                Eastern Oregon, Linebackers

2005-06           Northern Arizona University, Running Backs

2007-2008       Northern Arizona University, Linebackers/Special Teams

2009-Pres.       Northern Arizona University, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers

Craig Knoth (pronounced Kuh - NO - th) begins his fourth season as an assistant coach at Northern Arizona University.  Knoth works with the tight ends and coordinates the recruiting efforts for the football program. 

Knoth has mentored Shaun Fitzpatrick to two All-Big Sky honors, including first-team accolades in 2006. Fitzpatrick ranked second on the team with 28 catches for 360 yards in 2007, earning honorable mention All-America honors from the Sports Network. In 2008, redshirt freshman Brian Riley filled in for the injured Fitzpatrick and earned All-Big Sky honorable mention accolades.

Prior to NAU, Knoth worked two seasons at Missouri Southern State University where he worked with former NAU Offensive Coordinator Keeth Matheny as a graduate assistant.  At Missouri Southern, Knoth worked with the tight ends and assisted with the offensive line for Head Coach John Ware. He handled the offensive line position group for the final five games of the 2006 season at Missouri Southern after the passing of Head Coach and Offensive Line coach John Ware.

At Missouri Southern, Knoth was part of a staff that broke or tied more than 30 school offensive records. In 2004, Missouri Southern set the school season record for passing yards (3,575 yards) and ranked second on the all-time list for total offense (4,983 yards) and scoring (342 points). They became the first team in MIAA conference history to record a 3,000-yard passer, 1,000-yard receiver and 1,000-yard rusher during the regular season. Knoth helped mentor two Honorable Mention All-MIAA offensive linemen in sophomore Allen Barbre and freshman Matt Stout. In 2005, Knoth mentored two All-MIAA selections on the Offensive Line at Missouri Southern in Allen Barbre and Matt Stout. Allen Barbre was a First-Team All-MIAA, First-Team All-Southwest Region, and Honorable Mention All-America as a junior.  Barbre was a fourth round selection (119th overall) of the Green Bay Packers in the 2007 NFL Draft.  Matt Stout was an honorable mention selection as a sophomore.

Knoth was a four-year letterwinner and a three-year starter at Truman State University for Head Coach John Ware.  He played on the offensive line as a guard starting every game, 33 consecutive, beginning in the 2001 season thru the 2003 season at Truman State.  At Truman State, Knoth played on some of the most prolific offenses in the over 100 years of football at the institution.

Knoth, a native of Cape Girardeau, Mo., graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration with concentrations in management and marketing as well as a minor in Public Administration from Truman State University in 2004. He earned his master's degree in business administration from Missouri State University in 2006. He was married in June, 2007 to the former Nikki Riess. 

Craig Knoth, Tight Ends/Recruiting
Born: July 19, 1981
College: Truman State University, 2004; Missouri State University, 2006
Playing Experience: Truman State University, 2000-03
Family: Wife Nikki Riess.
Recruiting Areas: Phoenix, Oklahoma, Midwest, National

Knoth’s Coaching Chronology
2004-05 Missouri Southern University
2006-Pres. Northern Arizona University, Tight End

David Reeves begins his first season as the safeties and special teams coach after five seasons as the head coach at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Mont., and 15 years of experience in the FCS and FBS levels.

During Reeves’ tenure with the Bears he tutored a defense that steadily gotten better each season and produced numerous all-conference players each season. He compiled a 12-43 record at the school, including 4-7 marks the past two seasons.

RMC defeated Montana Tech for the first time since 1999 - ending a 16-game losing streak to the Orediggers - and wrapped up the season with back-to-back victories over Eastern Oregon and Montana Western. The Bears ranked No. 2 in the NAIA in passing offense (323.0 per game), No. 4 in sacks per game (3.5) and No. 9 in field goals made (.769).

Prior to coming to Rocky, Reeves spent 15 years coaching at the Division I level. He started his coaching career at his alma mater, the University of Montana, after he finished his playing career 1987 under then defensive coordinator Jerome Souers. As the linebacker coach for the Griz, Reeves coached 10 All-Big Sky first-team performers, including 1996 Big Sky Defensive MVP Jason Crebo. He was also a member of the Grizzly coaching staff that guided the 1995 team to the 1-AA National Championship.

In 2000 Reeves followed Mick Dennehy to Utah State University, where he became the assistant head coach and linebacker coach for the Aggies. While at USU, Reeves’ linebackers earned All-Big West first-team honors three times. Two of his linebackers, Jesse Busta and Brent Passey, ended their careers as the schools’ third and fourth all-time leading tacklers.

As a player at Montana, Reeves was a four-year letterwinner and was two-year starter as a strong safety. He earned the team’s Most Inspirational award as a senior in 1987. In 1991, Reeves earned a BA in history from Montana.

Reeves is married to the former Sara Mates and they have two children, Matt and Sam.

David Reeves, Safeties/Special Teams
Born: Feb. 14, 1966
College: University of Montana
Playing Experience: University of Montana, 1984-87.
Family: Wife, Sara, and two boys, Matt and Sam.
Recruiting Areas: TBA

Reeves’ Coaching Chronology
1989-2000 University of Montana, Linebackers
2000-2003 Utah State University, Assistant Head Coach/Linebackers
2004-08 Rocky Mountain College, Head Coach
2009 Northern Arizona University, Safeties/Special Team

Eric Reid begins his third season as the offensive line coach while serving as the running game coordinator for the program after molding a unit that has performed among the best in the league.

In 2007, NAU led the league in rushing by more than 50 yards per game, producing a rushing attack that was one of the most productive units in the Big Sky Conference, ranking 13th in the nation overall. NAU had three players who ranked among the top 100 rushers in the Football Championship Subdivision, the only school to accomplish the feat. Both Alex Henderson (82.5 yards per game) and Lionel Scott (74.7) earned All-Big Sky honors.

Tackles Nick Posey and Ryne Holstrom, guard Tim Reader and center Jon Toailoa all earned All-Big Sky honorable mention honors. The Lumberjacks started the season by losing two returning starters on the line during the preseason.

In 2008, three players earned All-Big Sky honorable mention honors while helping the offense rank 23rd in the nation in total offense. The line helped produce the Big Sky Newcomer of the Year in running back Deonte Williams, who rushed for 950 yards while scoring 12 times. He ranked second among freshmen in FCS in rushing yards per game (86.4) and fifth in Division I overall among freshmen. His 12 touchdowns ranks tied for third on school single-season charts and were the most by a running back since 2000.

NAU gained 772 yards of total offense against the New Mexico Highlands, shattering the school record set in 1989 against Nevada of 674. It was the highest single-game total in the FCS and second overall in all Division I last season.

Reid joined the NAU after developing a reputation as one of the top line coaches in the league while serving in previous positions at Portland State and Eastern Washington. Overall, he has developed 18 all-conference players to 22 honors and a pair of All-Americans during his career.

Reid coached some of the most talented offensive lines in the Big Sky Conference prior to coming to Flagstaff. In 2004 and 2005, the Vikings led the Big Sky Conference in rushing yards and fewest sacks allowed, totaling an average of 200 yards per game on the ground and just 20 sacks over 22 games.

The Big Sky postseason award ledger confirmed Reid’s influence at Portland State. In his five seasons, nine Vikings earned All-Big Sky honors a total of 13 times, highlighted by Brennan Carvalho, who was a first-team All-America selection by The Walter Camp Foundation and the Associated Press in 2006.

Reid, who was hired at PSU in 2002, had to build his line over the course of a few seasons. His first two years on the job, the Vikings’ were beset with a multitude of injuries. In fact, in the only game in 2003 that PSU’s preseason projected starting lineup was able to go as a unit - against Division I-A Fresno State - the Vikings ran for a season-high 257 yards, and gained 486 overall. It was a testament to the Vikings’ talent and Reid’s coaching ability.

Reid was hired as the Vikings’ offensive line coach in January of 2002. He joined the Vikings after spending the previous two seasons as offensive line coach at Eastern Washington University.

At Eastern Washington, Reid’s 2001 offensive line had three first-team All-Big Sky performers and one All-American, Chris Polinder.

Reid is a 1996 graduate of the University of Oregon with a degree in sociology. A starter at offensive guard, Reid played for the Ducks from 1991 to 1995, starting in the 1995 Rose Bowl and 1996 Cotton Bowl.

A native of Poway, Calif., Reid returned to his home state following graduation. He coached the offensive line at San Diego Mesa Junior College and at San Diego’s Bishop High School for one year each. Reid went back to Oregon to be a graduate assistant coach on the offensive line in both 1998 and 1999.

Reid, 36, and his wife Dyanne, have six-year old twin daughters, Allyson and Elizabeth.

All-Americans (2 Student-Athletes, 2 Honors)
Brennan Carvalho, PSU (2006, 1st)
Chris Polinder, EWU (2001, 1st)

All-Big Sky Selections (11 Student-Athletes, 15 Honors)
Brennan Carvalho, PSU (2006, 1st; 2005, 1st)
Derrick Duff, PSU (2006, HM; 2005, HM)
Luke Fritz, EWU (2000, 1st)
Darren Heerspink, PSU (2006, 2nd)
Micah Jackson-Sattler, PSU (2004, 2nd)
Devan Kelley, PSU (2002, 1st)
Antonio Narcisse, PSU (2005, HM; 2004, 1st)
Asim Poston, ESU (2001, 1st)
Peter St. John, PSU (2005, 2nd; 2004, 2nd)
Mike Stachowiak, PSU (2004, 2nd)
David Sherrod, EWU (2001, 1st)

NAU All-Big Sky Selections (7 Student-Athletes, 7 Honors)
Trevor Heekin (2008, HM)
Ryne Holstrom (2007, HM)
Kevin Meagher (2008, HM)
Kris Poindexter (2008, HM)
Nick Posey (2007, HM)
Tim Reader (2007, HM)
Jon Toailoa (2007, NAU)

Eric Reid, Running Game Coordinator/Offensive Line
Born: Oct. 4, 1972
College: University of Oregon, 1996
Playing Experience: University of Oregon, 1991-95
Family: Wife, Dyanne and two daughters, Allyson and Elizabeth
Recruiting Areas: Southern Arizona (Tucson / Yuma), Southern California (San Diego)

Reid’s Coaching Chronology
1996 San Diego Mesa Junior College
1997 San Diego’s Bishop High School
1998-99 University of Oregon, Graduate Assistant
2000-01 Eastern Washington University, Offensive Line
2002-06 Portland State University, Offensive Line
2007 Northern Arizona University, Offensive Line
2008- Northern Arizona University, Running Game Coordinator/Offensive Line

Francis St. Paul begins his second season as the wide receivers coach and third overall working with the position group. He joined the Northern Arizona University staff as an offensive assistant prior to the 2007 season. A former player in the NFL, St. Paul also serves as the pro liaison for the staff and coordinates the summer camps.

St. Paul tutored three student-athletes to All-Big Sky honors in 2008 with Ed Berry, Conrad Meadows and Skyler Moore all earning honorable mention accolades. Berry, Meadows and Curt Sweeney all caught over 40 balls and had more than 400 yards receiving to help the offense rank 23rd in the nation in total offense. NAU gained 772 yards of total offense against the New Mexico Highlands, shattering the school record set in 1989 against Nevada of 674. It was the highest single-game total in the FCS and second overall in all Division I last season.

In 2007, St. Paul helped tutor All-Big Sky selection Alex Watson, who led the receivers with 63 catches for 611 for five touchdowns. He surpassed his coach’s career totals for receiving yards and touchdowns during the season.

St. Paul finished his career among the all-time receivers in school history, ranking second in touchdowns (19), ninth in receptions (113) and 10th in receiving yards (1,617). He was a sixth-round pick of the St. Louis Rams in the 2001 NFL Draft, playing with the Rams on the active roster and practice squad over two seasons including Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans. He also had stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars. He finished his professional career with the Ottawa Renegades in the Canadian Football League in 2004.

St. Paul completed his degree requirements in business/marketing in 2005. He coached at the prep level in Phoenix for two seasons before joining the NAU staff. In 2005, he was the wide receivers and return game coach at Camelback High School, followed by one season at Moon Valley High School as the passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach.

St. Paul married the former Whitney Martindale on June 30, 2007 in Las Vegas. They have a three-year old son Jalen and newborn Jaxon.

Francis St. Paul, Wide Receivers
Born: April 25, 1979
College: Northern Arizona University, 2005
Playing Experience: Northern Arizona University, 1997-00; St. Louis Rams, 2001-02; Pittsburgh Steelers, 2002; Jacksonville Jaguars, 2003; Carolina Panthers, 2003; Ottawa Renegades, 2004
Family: Wife, the former Whitney Martindale, and sons Jalen (3) and Jaxon.
Recruiting Areas: Southern California (Los Angeles), Texas

Saint Paul’s Coaching Chronology
2007 Northern Arizona University, Offensive Assistant
2008-09 Northern Arizona University, Wide Receiver

Bill Smith enters his 10th season after joining the Northern Arizona University staff as the defensive line coach prior to the 2000 season. He also coordinates the initial eligibility and enrollment efforts for the program and serves as the program’s national recruiting liaison along with Utah junior colleges.

During his tenure, Smith has led a productive defensive line group that has been a key element in the success of the Lumberjack defense. NAU has ranked among the top two units in the conference and top 20 in the country against the run four times during his tenure. Ten players have earned All-Big Sky accolades under Smith while recording at least 44 tackles from the position leader nine times.

In 2008, the defensive line helped NAU lead the FCS and ranked second in Division I overall in rushing defense allowing just 59.8 yards per game. NAU held four opponents to negative yards rushing and a fifth to just 21 on the game. For the season, NAU allowed 658 yards on 307 carries (2.1 yards per carry) with 99 plays for zero or negative yardage on the season, including 72 for a loss on the season. It reset the NAU and Big Sky Conference records for rushing defense and yards allowed in a season.

All three defensive linemen earned accolades led by College Sporting News All-America selection Stephen Nowgbe, who was the first All-Big Sky first team selection on the line since 1997. Kyle Rath and Michael Battisti both earned honorable mention accoades.
Blair Boynton had a team-best eight tackles for loss and 4.5 quarterback sacks in 2007, earning All-Big Sky honorable mention honors. He was also selected the Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Drew Hoffman led the unit in tackles while joining Boynton on the All-Big Sky honorable mention team.

John Perrigo led the line in tackles for three seasons from 2002-04, earning All-Big Sky honors twice. Overall, the unit combined for 111 tackles among the top six in the rotation in 2004, highlighted by Perrigo, who ranked second on the team with eight tackles for loss among 44 overall.

Perrigo and senior Doug Harding both earned All-Big Sky honors, totaling 7.5 sacks a piece and combining for 88 tackles and almost 20 tackles for loss in 2003. Smith tutored a line group that became a major factor in the success that produced a Big Sky Championship and NCAA I-AA quarterfinal appearance. The Lumberjack defense ranked first in the nation in interceptions (24) and fifth overall in total turnovers (36). NAU also ranked first in the conference in sacks, second in opponent third-down conversion rate, second against the run (11th nationally) and second in pass efficiency defense.

Smith, a veteran of more than 38 seasons as a high school and collegiate coach, served as the linebackers coach at Granger High School in Salt Lake City for two seasons before joining the NAU staff.

Prior to Granger, Smith served eight seasons at the University of Utah as the linebackers coach (1990-96) and tight ends/tackles coach (1997). He also had stints at three Big Sky Conference schools, including Weber State (assistant head/defensive coordinator, 1989), Montana (defensive line/defensive coordinator, 1986-88) and Portland State (defensive line/defensive coordinator, 1980-85).

Smith served on the coaching staff with Souers at both Portland State (1985) and Montana (1986-88).
Before joining the staff at Portland State, Smith was the head coach at San Diego’s Marian High School from 1978-79 and the defensive coordinator at Jesuit High School in Portland, Ore., from 1971-77. He started his collegiate coaching career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Oregon, in 1970 after two seasons at Capital High School in Boise, Idaho (1968-69).

Smith was drafted in the 16th round with the 402nd pick and played one season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1967 after his collegiate career at Oregon (1965-66) and Boise Junior College (1963-64). Smith is married to the former Janine Talley and they have two children, son Riley (32) and daughter Ashley (30).

All-Big Sky Selections (10 Student-Athletes, 11 Honors)
Michael Battisti (2008, HM); Blair Boynton (2007, HM), Doug Harding (HM, 2003), Drew Hoffman (2006, HM; 2007, HM), Malachi Keddington (HM, 2000), Pisa Magele (HM, 2001), Stephen Nwogne (2008, 1st); John Perrigo (HM, 2004; HM, 2003); Kyle Rath (2008, HM).

Bill Smith, Defensive Line
Born: March 22, 1945
College: Oregon, 1966
Playing Experience: Boise Junior College 1963-64; Oregon 1965-66; Pittsburgh Steelers, 1967.
Family: Wife Janine and son Riley and daughter Ashley
Recruiting Areas: Northern Arizona, Utah, Northern Nevada (Reno), Idaho, National

Smith’s Coaching Chronology
1968-69, Capital High School
1970 , University of Oregon, Graduate Assistant
1971-77, Jesuit High School, Defensive Coordinator
1978-79, Marian High School, Head Coach
1980-85, Portland State, Defensive Line/Defensive Coordinator
1986-88, University of Montana, Defensive Line/Defensive Coordinator
1989, Weber State/Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator
1990-96, University of Utah, Linebackers
1997, University of Utah, Tight Ends/Tackles
1998-99, Granger High School, Linebackers
2000-Pres., Northern Arizona University, Defensive Line

Andy LaRussa begins his second season as an assistant coach on the Northern Arizona staff. He works with the secondary with specific aid with the cornerbacks and safeties and all phases of the kicking game.

In his first season, junior cornerback Daivon Dumas recorded 56 tackles under LaRussa’s tutelage, the fourth-best total on the team, while corner Taelor Worrell was an All-Big Sky honorable mention selection for his special teams play.

LaRussa joined the program from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (2005-09) where he was the defensive graduate assistant, working with the defensive line and linebackers for two years each and one season with the secondary. He also served as the assistant special teams coordinator for five seasons. During his time with the Rebels, he also had roles as the assistant video coordinator and assistant strength coach.

He coached four players who earned All-Mountain West Conference honors led by linebacker Beau Bell, who was a member of the first team and Defensive Player of the Year in 2008 before being selected in the fourth round by the Cleveland Browns. Defensive back Eric Wright was a second round pick of the Browns in 2007 after earning second-team honors in 2006. DB Jay Staggs (2006) and defensive linemen Malo Taumua (2008) were honorable mention selections under LaRussa.

LaRussa has spoken at eight clinics since 2006, including two appearances at the Nike Coach of the Year Clinic presenting on special teams.

Prior to joining the UNLV staff, LaRussa was the defensive line coach and special teams coordinator at St. Francis High School from August of 2003 to March of 2005 (LaCanada, Calif.). He also played and coached in NFL Italy with the Ostia Marines from March-July 2003 and in June 2004.

LaRussa played his collegiate ball at Southern Utah University (2000-02) after transferring from Glendale College in California (1998-99). He received his bachelor of science in physical education in December 2002 and is currently working on his master’s in education at UNLV.

Andy LaRussa, Secondary/Special Teams

Born: June 11, 1980. College: Southern Utah University, 2002. Playing Experience: Glendale (Calif.) College, 1998-99; Southern Utah University, 2001-02; Ostia Marines, NFL Italy, March-July, 2003, June 2004; Italian National Team, March-July, 2003, June 2004. Family: Engaged to Briana Bernardi, Recruiting Areas: Las Vegas, Nev. and Southern California.

LaRussa’s Coaching Chronology
2003-04, Ostia Marines, NFL Italy, Defensive Line/Linebackers/Special Teams
2003-05, St. Francis High School, Special Teams Coordinator/Defensive Line
2005-08, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Defensive Line/Linebackers, Secondary/ Special Teams
2009-Pres. , Northern Arizona University, Defensive Assistant/Secondary

John Teuscher enters his second season as a member of the Northern Arizona coaching staff. He will be assisting with the linebackers as a defensive assistant.

Teuscher helped tutor a defense that led the FCS and ranked second in Division I overall in rushing defense allowing just 59.8 yards per game in 2008. NAU held four opponents to negative yards rushing and a fifth to just 21 on the game. For the season, NAU allowed 658 yards on 307 carries (2.1 yards per carry) with 99 plays for zero or negative yardage on the season, including 72 for a loss on the season. It reset the NAU and Big Sky Conference records for rushing defense and yards allowed in a season. The linebackers were among the tackle leaders on the squad, producing four of the top 10 tacklers led by Anthony Llanos. Cody Dowd earned All-Big Sky second team honors, while Stevon Thomas was an honorable mention selection.

Teuscher came to NAU after spending the 2007 season at the University of Utah as an administrative assistant. Teuscher assisted the coaching staff in numerous program related duties including film break down, recruiting, and academic support. The Utes finished 9-4 and won the Poinsettia Bowl.

Teuscher began his coaching career at Snow College in Ephraim, Utah, where he coached defensive line. Snow finished the season 11-1, ranked No. 2 in the final NJCAA poll. The Badgers also were champions of the W.S.F.L. and the Top of the Mountains Bowl. Snow finished the year ranked No. 14 in the nation in total defense and No. 19 nationally against the run. Nine Badger defensive linemen would eventually move on to Division 1 schools.

Teuscher played football at Snow College in 2004-05 with the team posting an overall record of 17-6 over two seasons and winning two bowl games. After accepting a scholarship to Benedictine College (Kan.), he suffered a knee injury in spring practice and led to the start of his coaching career.

He also played football at Olympus High School (Utah) where he was a member of the 1998 4A State Championship team.

Teuscher is a 2008 graduate of Southern Utah University with a Bachelor of Science degree in history. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership at NAU.

Teuscher, 27, is a native of Salt Lake City, Utah. He is married to the former Whitney Garner.

John Teuscher, Defensive Assistant/Linebackers
Born: April 11, 1982
College: Southern Utah University, 2008
Playing Experience: Snow College, 2004-2005
Family: Married to the former Whitney Garner
Recruiting Areas: Eastern Arizona, Central California, San Francisco Bay Area, National

Teuscher’s Coaching Chronology
2006, Snow College, Defensive Line
2007,University of Utah, Administrative Assistant
2008-Present, Northern Arizona University, Defensive Assistant/Linebacker

Matt Thompson begins his first season as the Director of Football Operations. He will direct the internal and external administration of the daily football operations, while overseeing the program’s budget and team travel. Thompson also directs the NAU Football blog, providing content, photos and video for the popular website.

Thompson brings a journalism background to the position, serving as a freelance and general assignment reporter for several Northwest newspapers including The Seattle Times, Tacoma News and The Oregonian. He also worked for the King County Journal for three years directly out of college, earning a “Best News Story” Award from the Society of Professional Journalists in 2003.

Thompson served in the Peace Corps for two years in Bulgaria from 2004-06, teaching English in a rural community. He also served as the Education Outreach Manager for the Foundation for International Understanding through Students (FIUTS) for the University of Washington in 2007-08 and 2009.

The Walla Walla, Wash., native played football at the University of Montana. He earned a degree in print journalism from Montana in 2000 and Master’s of Arts in international studies from the University of Washington in 2009. He is the brother of NAU defensive coordinator Andy Thompson.

Matt Thompson, Director of Football Operations
Born: August 7, 1977
College: Montana, 2000