Neal Brown has been hired as the new head coach at North Texas, the university announced on Tuesday. The contract is reportedly for five years, marking a significant move for the Mean Green football program.
Brown brings a decade of head coaching experience, including a 37-35 record at West Virginia and a 35-16 mark at Troy. He led Troy to a Sun Belt Conference title and notable victories over LSU and Nebraska.
He will succeed Eric Morris, who is departing for Oklahoma State after an 11-1 season at North Texas. Morris will continue to coach the team through its upcoming American Conference title game against Tulane.
North Texas athletic director Jared Mosley praised Brown’s leadership qualities, stating he is “a proven leader who builds programs with integrity and vision.” Mosley also highlighted Brown’s ability to develop talent and produce results in competitive leagues.
Brown’s bowl game record stands at 5-1, reflecting his capacity to guide teams to postseason success. Last season, he was part of the coaching staff at Texas, further adding to his experience in major college football.
Brown spent six seasons with West Virginia before being dismissed in December. His final season saw inconsistent performances and higher expectations, including aspirations for a Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance.
After recent struggles at West Virginia, Brown will now focus on revitalizing North Texas’s program. He expressed excitement about joining the Texas football landscape and emphasized his plan for a player-driven program.
Mosley expressed confidence that Brown’s leadership will bring sustained success to North Texas. The athletic director also noted the positive impact Brown and his family will have on the team and surrounding community.
North Texas aims to build on Morris’s successful season under new leadership. The coaching transition comes at a critical time as the Mean Green prepare for postseason play and future challenges.
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