BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — In a significant move for Bowling Green’s athletics, Eddie George has been named the Falcons’ head football coach. The former NFL running back brings a rich history of achievements to the role, including a storied playing career and success as a coach at Tennessee State University.
George, who shined as a four-time Pro Bowl and an All-Pro player in the NFL, was also honored as the 1996 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press, following his Heisman Trophy win at Ohio State in 1995. His tenure at Tennessee State, spanning the last four years, saw him being named Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Coach of the Year. He led the Tigers to share a conference championship and a spot in the Football Championship Series playoffs, and he was a runner-up for the prestigious Eddie Robinson National Coach of the Year award.
He steps in as Bowling Green’s 21st head coach, succeeding Scot Loeffler, who has taken up a new role as the Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterbacks coach after a six-year tenure with the Falcons. Bowling Green President Rodney K. Rogers expressed confidence in George’s ability to advance the program. Rogers highlighted George’s innovative approach and broad perspectives gained in and out of the sports arena, confidently stating that George is well-equipped to drive the program forward amidst evolving collegiate sports landscapes.
Beyond his NFL and coaching credentials, George has a diverse background. He’s ventured into acting, including a stint on Broadway, and has engaged in various business endeavors. Academically, he’s contributed as an adjunct professor at his alma mater, Ohio State, and Vanderbilt University. His coaching talents were recognized at the NFL level as well, exemplified when he interviewed for the Chicago Bears’ head coach role.
Under George’s leadership, Tennessee State transformed significantly. Inheriting a team with a modest record, George guided them to back-to-back winning seasons in 2023 and 2024—the first such achievement since 2016-17. Their 9-3 record in 2024 was the most successful season since 2013, earning them a national ranking of 19th. Over his tenure, George accumulated a record of 24-22 as head coach.
Filled with enthusiasm about his new position, George expressed his eagerness to make an impact at Bowling Green and reconnect with Ohio, where he played his college football. He looks forward to engaging with the team, coaching staff, and the wider Bowling Green community.
As a player, George concluded his career with the Dallas Cowboys in 2004, retiring in 2006 after accumulating 10,441 rushing yards, 268 receptions for 2,227 yards, and scoring 78 touchdowns. His illustrious career earned him an induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011. George and his wife, Tamara “Taj” George of the music group Sisters with Voices (SWV), have two sons.
While Tennessee State begins its search for George’s successor, Athletic Director Mikki Allen expressed gratitude for the comprehensive groundwork George laid during his time there. Allen will temporarily assume coaching responsibilities until a new head coach is appointed.
