2003 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Finalist

1999 Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year

Entering his 14th 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 milestones.

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 eight winning seasons. During his 13-year tenure, Souers has coached 111 student-athletes to all-conference honors a combined 181 times with 41 first-team selections and 38 All-Americans accolades.

Souers, who was named the 1999 Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year, 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 (Blair Boynton, Eric Damko, Steve Gomez, Mark Gould, Paul Ernster and Jeff Wheeler) and had 11 student-athletes named to the 2010 Big Sky Fall All-Academic team. Overall, 61 student-athletes have earned 108 Big Sky academic honors over the last 13 seasons. There have also been five Academic All-Americans, as well.

Souers has increased the program’s Academic Progress Rate, a real-time measure of eligibility, retention and graduation of student-athletes, in each of the last five academic years (872 to 953) and had the highest multi-year rate in the Big Sky Conference in 2011, earning the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Athletics Directors Association APR Award. The award is given to the highest APR score in each of the 14 FCS conferences.

But there is still work ahead. 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 10^th 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 (22) and Alaina (20).

Souers Record

Year    Overall            Conf./Finish

1998    6-5 (.545)        3-5 (.375)/t-7th

1999    4-8* (.333)      2-6* (.250)/t-6th

2000    3-8 (.272)        2-6 (.250)/t-7th

2001    8-4 (.667)        5-2 (.714)/t-2nd

2002    6-5 (.545)        3-4 (.428)/t-4th

2003    9-4 (.692)        5-2 (.714)/t-1st

2004    4-7 (.333)        3-4 (.428)/5th

2005    3-8 (.272)        1-6 (.142)/t-7^th

2006    6-5 (.545)        5-3 (.625)/4^th

2007    6-5 (.545)        5-3 (.625)/3^rd

2008    6-5 (.545)        4-4 (.500)/5^th

2009    5-6 (.454)        4-4 (.500)/T5th

2010    6-5 (.545)        4-4 (.500)/6th

Total   72-75 (.490)    42-49 (.462)

* includes four forfeits

All-Americans (20 Student-Athletes, 39 Honors)

Ed Berry (2009), 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), Stephen Nwogbe (2008), Keith O’Neil (2002), Ray Perryman (1999, 2000), Kris Poindexter (2010); Matt Raivio (2003), Francis St. Paul (1999), Alex Watson (2006), Ricky Wilson (2007).

* Academic All-American

All-Big Sky Selections (111 Student-Athletes, 181 Honors)

Derek Allen (2^nd, 1998), Kacey Allen (2^nd, 1999), Brandon Anthony (HM, 2005), George Asalele (HM, 2002), Michael Battisti (HM, 2008; HM, 2010), Kawika Batoon (HM, 2000), Zach Bauman (2^nd, 2010), Ed Berry (HM, 2008, 1st, 2009), Isaac Bond (2nd, 2009; 1st, 2010), Dwight Boyd (2009, HM), 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), Davieun Curry-Chapman (2^nd, 2010), 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; HM, 2010), Geoff Ducksworth (HM, 2005), Paul Ernster (1st, 2004), Matt Estrada (1st, 2009; 2^nd, 2010), Anthony Evans (HM, 2008), Afa Faraimo (1st, 1998), Shaun Fitzpatrick (1st, 2006; 2^nd, 2007, HM, 2009), Steve Fontana (2^nd, 1999), Sean Funke (HM, 2003), K.J. Gerard (HM, 2004; 2nd, 2005; 1st, 2007; 1st, 2008), Trey Gilleo (HM, 2010), 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, 1st, 2009), Vince Henman (1st, 2004, HM, 2004, HM, 2003), Michael Herrick (2nd, 2009; HM, 2010), Jeff Hines (HM, 2009), Drew Hoffman (HM, 2006; HM, 2007), Ryne Holstrom (HM, 2007, 2nd, 2009), Brian Hunter (HM, 2010), 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), Nick Larson (HM, 2010), 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; 2^nd, 2005), Johnny Marshall (1st, 2003; HM, 2002; HM, 2001), Scott McKeever (2^nd, 2010), Conrad Meadows (HM, 2008, HM, 2009), Kevin Meagher (HM, 2006; HM, 2008), Skyler Moore (HM, 2006; HM, 2008), David Moran (2nd, 1999), Clarence Moore (1st, 2003; 1st, 2002; HM, 2001), Alex Mott (HM, 2010), Matt Myers (2nd, 2009; HM, 2010), Jason Murrietta (1st, 2006; 2nd, 2004, 1^st, 2003), Stephen Nwogbe (1st, 2008), Enrique Olson (2nd, 1998), Keith O’Neil (1st, 2002; 1st, 2001), Vinnie Paciulli (2^nd, 2010), Kainoa Pe’a (HM, 2010), Dusty Peace (2nd, 2001), John Perrigo (HM, 2004; HM, 2003), Ray Perryman (1st, 2000; 1st, 1999), Jake Petersen (HM, 1999), Kris Poindexter (HM 2009, HM, 2008; 1^st, 2010), Nick Posey (HM, 2007), Matt Raivio (1st, 2003; 1st, 2002), Kyle Rath (HM, 2008; HM, 2010), 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), Austin Shanks (2nd, 2010); Lynne Ray Smith (HM, 1999), Francis St. Paul (HM, 2000; 1^st, 1999), Curt Sweeney (HM, 2009), Stevon Thomas (2nd, 2009, 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), Brandon Vance (HM, 2009), 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), Taelor Worrel (HM, 2009; HM, 2010), Tom Winn (2nd, 2003; HM, 2002), Reid Worthington (HM, 2009; 1^st, 2010; HM, 2010), Adam Wright (HM, 2008); Drew Zamora (2^nd, 2010).

Big Sky All-Academic Selections (61 Student-Athletes, 108 Honors)

Ben Bachelier (2009, 2010), Michael Battisti (2008, 2010), Zach Bauman (2010), Brent Berge (1999), Blair Boynton (2005, 2007), Brian Buzzard (2003), Jake Crissup (1998, 1999), Michael Czyz (2008, 2009, 2010), Eric Damko (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001), Brent Daniels (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003), Nate Dedic (2006, 2007), Robbie Dehaze (2007, 2008), Thomas Dolan (1998), Drew Emanuel (2010), Paul Ernster (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004), Patrick Finkbone (2001, 2003), Shaun Fitzpatrick (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009), 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), Michael Herrick (2009), Vince Henman (2003, 2004), Drew Hoffman (2007), Tautua Howell-Reed (2004), Taylor Julio (2009), 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), Alex Mott (2010), Jason Murrietta (2006), Dustin Peace (2000, 2001), Dan Pela (2008, 2009, 2010), Mana Purdy (2010), Matt Raivio (2003), Nick Ragland-Johnsen (2008, 2009, 2010), Mike Sands (2002), Jake Sanders (2003), Aaron Schoenecker (2009), 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), Reid Worthington (2009, 2010), Nick Yerton (2001), Max Zemezonak (2010)

Matt Howdeshell was named the director of football operations in June 2011.

He will direct the internal and external administration of the daily football operations, while overseeing the program’s budget and team travel.  He will also direct the NAU Football blog, providing content, photos and video for the popular website.

He had served as the video coordinator for the program since January.

Prior to NAU, he was the video coordinator and assistant to the director of football operations at Missouri State University. He started as a student assistant with the Missouri State program from 2006-07.

He is a member of the American Football Coaches Association and the Collegiate Sports Video Association.

Brian Lindgren begins his third season as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in his sixth 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 2010, Zach Bauman was among the top freshmen running backs in the country in rushing yards per game, one of four freshmen in Division I to average more than 94 yards. He broke the school’s freshman rushing mark, ranked 25th overall in the FCS in rushing per game and was the top freshman in the FCS. Herrick finished his career as the school’s all-time career leader in completion percentage and yards per attempts (7.5), while leaving his mark on the record books in several categories including touchdowns, passing yards, pass completions and pass attempts.

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 have two children, including son Bronson Fitz Lindgren and daughter Blake Anne Lindgren.

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 Valley (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 third season as the defensive coordinator and fifth overall as the linebackers coach at Northern Arizona University. He is entering his seventh season overall on the staff after spending his first two seasons across the line of scrimmage directing the running backs.

Thompson, who has coached 16 student-athletes to 21 All-Big Sky honors at NAU, produced his best unit to date in 2010 with one of the top defensives in the Big Sky. The Lumberjacks led the league in scoring defense (19.8), rushing defense (93.5) and sacks (33), while ranking second overall in total defense (306.6) and pass defense (213.1). The Lumberjacks ranked fifth nationally in rush defense and among the FCS Top 25 in sacks (10th), total defense (14th) and pass defense (22nd).

Linebacker Reid Worthington and defensive lineman Isaac Bond were both was named to the All-Big Sky first team. NAU upset previously ninth-ranked Montana State, which led the Big Sky and ranked second in the FCS in total offense at 516.2 yards per game. The Bobcats were held to just 19 yards in the first half and 123 yards for the game.

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-Big 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 for current assistant Travis Baker. 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, 31, 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.), West Valley (Phoenix).

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

Travis Baker joined the Northern Arizona University coaching staff in the spring and will coach the defensive line for the Lumberjacks in 2011.

Baker joins the Lumberjacks from the University of Montana Western in Dillon, Mont. He replaces Bill Smith, who served on the staff for the last 11 years and was the longest tenured coach on the staff under Souers.

Baker will inherit a defensive line that welcomes back All-Big Sky first-team selection Isaac Bond and CoSIDA Academic All-District selection Dan Pela among seven players with experience.

Baker was the defensive coordinator at Montana Western for the 2010 season. He served on the coaching staff at Eastern Oregon University from 2002-05, in La Grande, Ore. He was the defensive coordinator, working with the defensive line, safeties and special teams during his tenure. He was also the interim head coach during the 2004 season., hiring current NAU defensive coordinator Andy Thompson. Eastern’s special team punt and kickoff return units both ranked among the NAIA top 10.

Baker began his collegiate coaching career at Utah State under Head Coach Dave Arslanian (1999) and Mike Dennehy (2000-01) and coached with current NAU assistant David Reeves, working with the defensive line from 1999-01. Overall, he coached five student-athletes who earned all-conference honors with the Aggies. In 1999, two Aggie defensive linemen earned All-Big West accolades, including Vaea Fiefia, who was a second-team pick, and Doug Madoski, an honorable mention choice. In 2000, Nate Larsen earned honorable mention All-Big West honors and Nate Putnam was the only league freshman to earn All-Big West first-team conference honors. In 2001, DE Nick Onaindia signed with the Oakland Raiders after leading the team in tackles for loss.

Prior to coming to USU, Baker spent three years as an assistant coach at Lake Havasu (Ariz.) High School. In 1997 he coached the secondary, wide receivers and special teams and in 1998 he was the defensive coordinator, linebacker, special teams and receivers coach.

Baker was an all-county quarterback at Brockport (N.Y.) High School, while also playing basketball. Baker has also coached basketball and baseball at the high school level.

He earned a degree in physical education from Suny College at Brockport in 1996 and a masters of education in secondary education from Utah State in 2001. He and his wife, Shana, has two step sons, Jordyn and JT.

Travis Baker, Defensive Line

Born: May 19, 1973                   

College: Suny College at Brockport, 1996; Utah State, 2001.

Family: Wife, Shana Baker, and step daughter, Jordyn and step son JT.                                 

Recruiting Areas: East Valley area of Arizona, Las Vegas, and Central, Calif.

Baker’s Coaching Chronology

1997                       Lake Havasu High School, WR/DB/ST

1998                            Lake Havasu High School, DC/LB/ST/WR

1999-01                       Utah State, Defensive Line

2002-05                       Eastern Oregon University, Defensive Coordinator

2010                            Montana Western, Defensive Coordinator

Charles Huff begins his first season as defensive backs coach at Northern Arizona University.

The former NFL player with the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons brings a wealth of experience to the Lumberjack program with a collegiate coaching career dating back to 1989. He replaces Andy LaRussa, who took a position at San Jose State.

Huff joins Souers' staff after recent positions at Florida A&M University as defensive coordinator (2005-07) and defensive ends and special teams coordinator at Central Florida from 1997-03. He most recently coached at Miles College in Fairfield, Ala.

Huff began his coaching career at his alma mater Presbyterian College in 1989 before moving on to assistant positions at Murray State (1991-93), West Alabama (1993-94) and Austin Peay State (1994-97). In 1990, Presbyterian finished second in the nation in pass defense. He helped MSU rank second in the Ohio Valley Conference in pass defense in both of his seasons on the staff. He was also the defensive coordinator at Austin Peay State while coaching the linebackers, secondary and special teams units. The Governors led the Ohio Valley Conference and finished fourth nationally in run defense and ranked 19th nationally in total defense in 1994. Huff's 1999 special teams unit at UCF was responsible for a total of eight blocked kicks (five punts, two field goals, one PAT).

During his career, he recruited and coached defensive back and future NFL star Asante Samuel at Central Florida, as well as ends Elton Patterson (UCF), Reshard Jentry (UCF) and Anthony Hutch (Murray State) to All-America honors. Samuel and Patterson were both selected in the NFL Draft in 2003 in the fourth and seventh rounds, respectively. Samuel has been a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion during his career and currently plays for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Huff also tutored SBN Black College Defensive Player of the Year Kevin Talley at Norfolk State.  Talley was a consensus All-America first-team selection by Walter Camp, Associated Press and The Sports Network.

Huff was a three-time All-American and all-conference selection at Presbyterian College before his four-year career in the NFL. He holds school records for punt and kick return average and career interceptions (20). He played with the 49ers from 1985-86 and the Falcons from 1987-88.

He became a 49er the same season as All-Pro receiver Jerry Rice. After head coach Bill Walsh and defensive back coach Ray Rhodes moved Ronnie Lott to safety in 1986, Huff moved into the starting lineup at left corner. He later suffered a severe knee injury and was released, but played parts of two more seasons with the Falcons.

He graduated with a degree in history and education from Presbyterian in 1985.

Charles Huff, Defensive Backs

Born: Feb. 24, 1963

College: Presbyterian College, 1985      

Playing Experience: Presbyterian College, 1981-85; San Francisco 49ers, 1985-86; Atlanta Falcons, 1987-88      

Family: Wife, Resa; Sons, Daron; Trevin; Sharmar.

Huff’s Coaching Chronology

1989-91            Presbyterian College, Running Backs/Defensive Backs

1991-93            Murray State University, Defensive Backs/Outside Linebackers

1993-94            West Alabama University, Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Backs

1994-97            Austin Peay State University, Defensive Coordinator/ Linebackers/Secondary/Special Teams

1997-03            University of Central Florida, Defensive Ends/Special Teams Coordinator

2004                 Norfolk State University, Co-Special Teams Coordinator/Linebackers

2005-07            Florida A&M University, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers

2008                 Columbia High School, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers

2010                 Miles College, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers, Defensive Line

2011-Pres.        Northern Arizona University, Defensive Backs

Craig Knoth (pronounced Kuh – NO – th) begins his sixth season as an assistant coach at Northern Arizona University. Knoth works with the tight ends and fullbacks, while coordinating the recruiting efforts for the football program.

Knoth helped develop two-sport standout Nick Larson in his only season on the gridiron in 2010. Larson, a former basketball player, produced 14 catches for 117 and three touchdowns, the second-best total on the team, and earned All-Big Sky honorable mention accolades. True freshman Drew Emanuel also saw significant action when junior Brian Riley was lost to injury early in the season, seeing action in 10 games.  Knoth also worked with Vinnie Paciulli, who earned the Second Team All-Big Sky selection at Fullback in 2010.

Knoth’s most recent recruiting efforts in 2010 landed the Lumberjacks student-athletes from Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City and Wickenburg, while reaching into California to sign four student-athletes.

Knoth mentored Shaun Fitzpatrick to three All-Big Sky honors, including first-team accolades in 2006. He finished his career with 77 catches for 920 yards and four touchdowns and was named to the prestigious 2009 Football Championship Subdivision Athletics Directors Association Academic All-Star Team.

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 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 letter winner 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. They had their first child in September 2010, Zoie.

Craig Knoth, Tight Ends/Fullbacks/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, Daughter Zoie Knoth.               

Recruiting Areas: Phoenix (Scottsdale), Sacramento, Reno

Knoth’s Coaching Chronology

2004-05           Missouri Southern State University

2006-Pres.       Northern Arizona University, Tight Ends

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

Reeves coached junior Matt Estrada to a breakout season in 2009 in his initial season. Estrada was named the most valuable defensive player, defensive backfield player of the year and outstanding junior after leading the team with 78 tackles and a team-best 47 solo tackles. He culminated his junior season with All-Big Sky first-team honors.

Estrada also anchored one of the best defensive units in school history in 2010, signing as a free agent with the Jacksonville Jaguars in July 2011. The Lumberjacks led the league in scoring defense (19.8), rushing defense (93.5) and sacks (33), while ranking second overall in total defense (306.6) and pass defense (213.1). NAU was fifth nationally in rush defense and among the FCS Top 25 in sacks (10th), total defense (14th) and pass defense (22nd).

Estrada earned All-Big Sky second team honors in 2010, bringing home Big Sky Player of the Week honors on both defense and special teams. The Lumberjacks ranked Top 16 in the country in both punting and field goals.

During Reeves’ tenure with the Rocky Mountain Bears he tutored a defense that steadily improved each season and produced numerous all-conference players each season. He compiled a 12-43 record at the school, including 4-7 marks the last 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 arriving at 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 in 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 from Montana 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 letter winner 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 Coordinator
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: Phoenix, Phoenix JC, Southern California (Corona/Riverside).

Reeves’ Coaching Chronology

Eric Reid begins his fifth season as the offensive line coach while serving as the running game coordinator for the program that has molded a unit that has performed among the best in the league. The Lumberjacks have had a 1,000-yard rusher in each of the last two seasons. Overall, he has developed 21 all-conference players to 28 honors and three All-Americans during his career.

Senior Kris Poindexter led Reid’s offensive line in 2010, earning selection to the Sports Network All-America third team and All-Big Sky first team. Joining Poindexter on the Big Sky team were honorable mention selections Trey Gilleo and Alex Mott, who both return in 2011.

The Lumberjacks rushed for more than 1,500 yards with the duo of Zach Bauman and Giovannie Dixon. Bauman was among the top freshmen in the country in rushing yards per game, one of four freshmen in Division I to average more than 94 yards. He became the second freshman in school history to reach 1,000 yards in a season and surpassed Alex Henderson’s freshman record of 1,014 yards set in 2006.

The 2009 Lumberjack offense flourished behind his line group with a breakout season. 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. Running back Alex Henderson eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark while scoring 12 times en route to All-Big Sky first-team honors.

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 13^th 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.

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, 38, and his wife Dyanne, have nine-year old twin daughters, Allyson and Elizabeth.

All-Americans (3 Student-Athletes, 3 Honors)

Brennan Carvalho, PSU (2006, 1st)

Chris Polinder, EWU (2001, 1st)

Kris Poindexter, NAU (2010, 3rd)

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 (10 Student-Athletes, 13 Honors)

Trey Gilleo (2010, HM)

Trevor Heekin (2008, HM)

Jeff Hines (2009, HM)

Ryne Holstrom (2007, HM; 2009, 2nd)

Kevin Meagher (2008, HM)

Alex Mott (2010, HM)

Kris Poindexter (2008, HM, 2009, HM, 2010, 1st)

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

Francis St. Paul begins his fourth season as the wide receivers coach and fifth 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.

The Lumberjacks produced the top two receivers in the Big Sky Conference in receptions per game in 2010 in senior Daiveun Curry-Chapman (6.3) and Austin Shanks (5.9), earning both All-Big Sky honorable second-team honors. Curry-Chapman led the team in receptions (69), receiving yards (738) and receiving touchdowns (6), earning a free agent contract with the Arizona Cardinals in July 2011.

In 2009, St. Paul coached a wide receiver group that helped NAU rank fifth in the country in passing offense (308.6) and total offense (439.5) and ninth in passing efficiency (147.8). Wide receiver Ed Berry, whose 75 receptions and 1,075 yards in 2009 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. Overall, the receiver group produced six players with 19 or more receptions and 200 yards receiving including three with more than 500 yards on the season.

St. Paul tutored three student-athletes to All-Big Sky honors in 2008 with 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 23^rd 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 10^th 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 five-year old son Jalen and two-year old 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 (5) and Jaxon (2).               

Recruiting Areas: Phoenix, Southern California (Los Angeles)

Saint Paul’s Coaching Chronology

2005                Camelback High School, Wide Receivers

2006                Moon Valley High School, Passing Game Coordinator/Wide Receivers

2007                Northern Arizona University, Offensive Assistant

2008-Pres.       Northern Arizona University, Wide Receivers

Jimmy Beal begins his second season on the Northern Arizona University football staff as the running backs coach after joining the staff in the fall of 2010.

Beal helped tutor running back Zach Bauman, one of the top freshmen in the country in rushing yards per game, in his first season in Flagstaff. He was one of four freshmen in Division I to average more than 94 yards per game, ranked 25th overall in the FCS in rushing per game and was the top freshman in the FCS. Bauman, who was an All-Big Sky second-team selection, became the second freshman in school history to reach 1,000 yards in a season and surpassed Alex Henderson’s freshman record of 1,014 yards set in 2006. He recorded the 14th 1,000-yard season by a running back in school history.

Beal joined the program from the University of Redlands, where he worked with the defensive backs in the spring of 2010. Prior to Redlands, he was a graduate assistant at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas in 2009 and worked as the running backs coach at Rocky Mountain College in Billings under current NAU assistant David Reeves in 2008.

Beal began his football coaching career at Rocky Mountain coaching the receivers from 2005-07. He also coached the sprints at Montana State-Billings from 2006-09.

Beal played collegiately at Montana State from 2002-04 before joining Reeves’ team at Rocky Mountain College. He was named the most valuable player and most valuable running back in 2006.

The Los Angeles, Calif., native also worked for Yellowstone Youth Services in Billings from 2005-08 and Skyhawks Sports Camps from 2006-07, as well as a coach at the YMCA in Billings from 2005-06.

He graduated from Montana State with a degree in art education and minor in coaching in 2006. He received his master’s degree in sport management from Montana State-Billings in 2009.

Jimmy Beal, Running Backs
Born: Oct. 22, 1984
College: Montana State University-Bozeman, 2007; Montana State University-Billings, 2009
Playing Experience: Montana State 2002-4, Rocky Mountain College, 2005-06
Family: Single
Recruiting Areas: TBA

Beal’s Coaching Chronology

Former Lumberjack standout Zac McNally has joined the football staff as the defensive graduate assistant.

McNally, a Brentwood, Calif., native, recently graduated from Northern Arizona University with a degree in health science/physical education and will work towards his master’s in educational leadership. He assisted the program during the 2010 season as a student assistant.

McNally played at NAU for three seasons after transferring from Diablo Valley College, where he earned Golden Gate Conference first-team honors after recording 78 tackles. He recorded 120 tackles during his three-year career at NAU and was a 2009 Golden Eagle Scholar-Athlete award winner. He was named the Newcomer of the Year in 2007 after notching 49 tackles in his initial season.

A 2005 graduate of De Le Salle High School, he played for Bob Ladaruer. He was named to the All-Northern Cali second-team and selected as Cal-Hi Sports north section defensive player of the year. He helped his team to national and state championships in 2002 and 2003.

Zac McNally, Defensive Assistant

Born: December 27, 1986

College: Northern Arizona University, 2010

Playing Experience: Boise State University, 2005; Diablo Valley College, 2006; Northern Arizona University, 2007-09

Family: Single

Recruiting Areas: TBA

McNally’s Coaching Chronology

2011                Northern Arizona University, Defensive Assistant