Samford University has appointed John Grass as its new head football coach. He is stepping into this role with excitement and a clear vision: to build a team that thrives on local talent and aims for championships.
Grass, who has spent the last four seasons as an offensive analyst at Clemson University, shared his ambitious outlook. “The sky is the limit,” he said. At 57, he believes he can help Samford win and play for titles. He emphasized that doing so while enjoying the process is essential.
Originally from Ashville, Alabama, Grass humorously noted how his last name is often mispronounced. His coaching career spans over three decades, with significant stints at both college and high school levels. Notably, he was the head coach at Jacksonville State University for eight years, where he achieved a 72-26 record, nabbed six Ohio Valley Conference titles, and led the team to the FCS national championship game in 2015.
Grass’s faith plays a crucial role in his life and coaching philosophy. He feels drawn to Samford because of its commitment to Christian values. He views coaching as a form of ministry and believes in building a program centered on faith. “I thank God for this opportunity. He opened this door,” he said, expressing his gratitude for the chance to lead the Bulldogs.
With Grass at the helm, fans and players alike are eager to see how his leadership will bring new energy and direction to the program. His experience and faith-driven approach could not only shape the players but also inspire the community surrounding Samford football. As the saying goes, a great coach can change lives, and Grass seems ready to take on that challenge.
For more information, you can read the full story on Samford University’s website.
In recent years, the trend of hiring coaches with strong ethical backgrounds and community ties has been on the rise across college sports. Programs are increasingly valuing coaches who prioritize personal development alongside athletic success, drawing parallels to Grass’s vision for Samford football.
As college football evolves, Grass’s approach could set a new standard for how programs build successful teams while fostering a strong sense of community and values.
