Kent State University has officially named Mark Carney as its new head football coach. This decision comes after Carney took over as interim coach back in April following the dismissal of Kenni Burns.
Since Carney stepped in, the team’s performance has dramatically improved. Kent State, currently 3-5 (2-2 in the MAC), shows significant progress from its previous two seasons, where they ended with records of 1-11 and 0-12. Notably, their recent victory over UMass marked the team’s first Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and Mid-American Conference (MAC) win since November 2022.
When the news of Carney’s promotion was announced, players celebrated with cheers and chants of his name, showing their support and excitement. Kent State’s athletic director, Randale Richmond, praised Carney for bringing a positive culture and belief back to the program. “He’s earned the right to lead this program,” Richmond said.
Carney has deep roots in Ohio and brings a wealth of coaching experience. He has worked at various schools, including Bowling Green and Baldwin Wallace. His connection to the region makes him a fitting choice for the role. “Being able to lead a college football program in Northeast Ohio is extremely special for me,” Carney expressed in a statement.
Interestingly, before this appointment, twelve FBS positions were open this season. With this move, there are now eleven vacant jobs, and it’s expected that more openings will arise in the coming weeks.
Overall, it’s an exciting time for Kent State football. With Carney’s leadership, the program hopes to build on its recent successes and forge a stronger future. Coach Carney’s journey reflects how a dedicated leader can redefine a team’s culture and performance.
For further insights into coaching changes in college football, you can read more about the trends and impacts on programs from sources like NCAA.
