Coastal Carolina Football Revamps Coaching Staff for 2025

The Coastal Carolina football field, filled with anticipation for the upcoming season.

News Summary

Coastal Carolina Football is making significant changes to its coaching staff heading into the 2025 season. Defensive coordinator Jeremiah Johnson is set to replace Craig Naivar, bringing a proven track record from Louisiana Tech. The team also welcomed new offensive coordinator Drew Hollingsworth after parting ways with Travis Trickett. With fresh leadership and strategic adjustments, the Chanticleers aim to enhance their performance and reclaim a competitive edge in the Sun Belt Conference.

Coastal Carolina Football Makes Some Big Moves in Coaching Staff

In a bold shake-up for the Coastal Carolina football program, excitement is in the air as the team heads into the 2025 season. The Chanticleers’ head coach, Tim Beck, recently announced that the defensive coordinator Craig Naivar will not be returning for another season. After spending two seasons with Coastal Carolina, Naivar is stepping back, making room for new energy and strategies that the team hopes will lead to a stronger defensive line.

A New Face at the Helm of Defense

Stepping into the pivotal role is Jeremiah Johnson, who brings notable accolades from his recent position as defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech. This past season, Johnson’s defense statistically ranked 12th in the country, allowing just over 308 yards per game. It’s a clear sign that Johnson knows how to tighten up defense, which is exactly what Coastal Carolina hopes to see moving forward.

Looking Back at Naivar’s Tenure

Craig Naivar joined Coastal Carolina from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and began his time with promise. In their first season together, Naivar’s defensive strategies helped the Chanticleers rank fourth in the Sun Belt Conference for the fewest points allowed per game in 2023. However, this past season, the team’s performance took a downturn, slipping to a disappointing 10th in points allowed per game.

During Naivar’s time, the defensive unit dealt with some tough challenges such as roster turnover and injuries. While standout players like linebacker Clev Lubin and cornerback Matthew McDoom shone brightly on the field, they later transferred to other programs, leaving holes that Naivar and his coaching staff struggled to fill throughout the season.

The Future Looks Bright with Johnson

Johnson’s arrival at Coastal Carolina is met with optimism. Before his time at Louisiana Tech, he spent 16 of the last 17 seasons at Northern Iowa, shining particularly as the defensive coordinator for nine years. He briefly served as the DC at Kent State in 2022 before returning to Northern Iowa, giving him a wealth of experience to bring to the Chanticleers.

Head coach Tim Beck has expressed enthusiasm about the new direction Johnson will provide for the defensive unit. With the challenging matchups lined up for the 2025 season, including games against Virginia and South Carolina, it’s clear that a strong defensive strategy will be crucial. Coastal Carolina has faced ups and downs in performance, but fresh leadership can often provide that needed spark.

Offensive Changes Align with Defensive Strategy

But that’s not all. Coastal Carolina has also made strides with its offensive lineup after parting ways with Travis Trickett, the offensive coordinator who was let go during the tumultuous 2024 season. In his place, the team has appointed Drew Hollingsworth as the new offensive coordinator. As both coordinators make exits, it signals a significant shift in the overall team strategy, aiming to bolster their competitive edge for the upcoming season.

A New Chapter for Coastal Carolina Football

As the Chanticleers gear up for 2025, the blend of new defensive leadership and revamped offensive strategies could be the recipe for success. Team members and fans alike are hopeful that these changes will result in a more robust performance on the field, with an eye on transforming the defensive statistics and regaining status among the ranks of the Sun Belt Conference.

In the world of college football, change can often be the key to growth, and Coastal Carolina is certainly poised for an exciting season ahead!