Coach's Corner

2010 Faulkner Eagle Football Team

2010-08-20T08:58:00.001-07:00

Here you go folks! Here is your 2010 Faulkner Eagle Football Team. It's going to be a great year! First game is Sep. 11th against Birmingham Southern. See you there.

A New Edge.

2010-08-04T12:05:00.000-07:00

For years the Faulkner University football program has practice in 13 different locations around Montgomery. Two years ago we were able to move unto a 75 yard field here on our main campus. Now, because of the hard from our administration we will be practicing on the brand new John Mark Stallings Athletic Field. This has been years in the making.Dr. Billy Hilyer, Brent Barker, Doug Amos, and many many more individuals have worked endless hours to make this dream a reality. This is truly and game changer for this program. The old field, while very useful, was not regulation length or width. So to start fall camp on this new surface will allow this program to excel during game this fall. While this facility will be used for just practice this year, those same people that made this possible are already hard at work getting the funds together to finish the project in hopes of having games on campus in 2011. You can often catch Coach Baker grinning from ear to ear from his office window. Fall camp will open on Monday August 9th with all incoming freshmen followed by the returning upperclassmen on the 21st. In fact, while typing this post stadium lights are being installed. This program and this University are truly blessed to have such a wonderful facility.

What a Win!

2009-12-02T07:02:00.000-08:00

As the season came to a close, the Eagles had one last game. Homecoming is the biggest game for any university, but for the Faulkner football program, it was even bigger. It was senior day and it would be the last time that these guys would ever play for the Eagles.

This was a special group of guys. These guys had been with the program from the very start and had given a lot toward this program. Sean Thom, Frank Padula, Scotty Pennington, Lincoln Taylor, and Jerod Corder. It was very special moment for these young men.

University of Virginia Wise, a Mid South Conference powerhouse, rolled into Montgomery looking for an easy win to finish their season...well, they got more then they expected. The Eagle defense led the way as Faulkner took their final game of the 2009 season. The defense allowed 240 yards of offense including -30 yards rushing and 10 sacks. That's right, 10 sacks. Matt Fleck led the sack party with 3 sacks. Sean Thom finished his career with 14 tackles and two sacks.

Offense was not to be out done. Frank Padula went out with a bang in his last game. Frank had 9 receptions for 123 yards including several big grabs in the final drive that lead to the game winning touchdown. The offense and defense played as one unit. If you were at the game then you know that the final drive was worth the price of admission. With the final score of 24-21, the Eagles took big steps toward 2010.

Staying Focused.

2009-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

I've said all along that building a program from the ground up was no easy task. There is no manual for this job and definitely no blueprints to go by. You have to stand there and take your lumps just like everyone else has done through history. The Eagles are no different. We have had our bright moments, and then we have had our darker moments. Through it all, we have learned to stay focused. Really, that's on of the most important things you can teach a young man. After playing well last week against #11 Shorter, we stumbled a bit against Belhaven. Once again our defense stood tall.

Making the plays when we need them. With the exception of one big play given up, our defense played very well.

Offense still struggled at time to get their rhythm. No doubt we are going through growing pains with freshmen in key positions. However, these guys are getting valuable experience. I think we are just a few plays away from a break out game. With the emergence of a running game, our passing game is not far behind.Now, I know what you are thinking. You think I'm trying to put a positive spin on things. Well, yes I am. There is a lot to be positive about in light of our record. In the games against Shorter and Belhaven we made vast improvements compared to last year. Shorter alone beat us 49-0 last season. These are the steps that the average fan may not notice. The key is to stay focused and to let these players know that we are going in the right direction. That's not an easy thing to do, but it must be done in order to get these kids to buy into this program. Stay strong.

GO EAGLES!

Big Steps

2009-09-30T05:11:00.001-07:00

I know that football is a crazy game. A lot of folks believe three years is enough time to become a great team. Those people are not alone. Players and coaches feel the same way. However, we are still very young and need to remember that success is measured in "baby" steps. After two tough losses against Huntingdon and Union, the Eagles took some of those steps Saturday against #11 Shorter.

Last season, Shorter blanked us 49-0. Coming into Saturday, everyone expected more of the same. For the first time, Faulkner showed how well they can play as a "TEAM". From offense, defense, and special teams Faulkner pulled together to show the home crowd that we have taken steps in the right direction.

Defense, once again stepped up to lead the way. Shorter has a very strong offense, but the Eagle defense rose to the challenge.

The defensive line was very active on Saturday, including scooping up a fumble and came close to "housing" it.

J.T Barker does what he does best in the secondary. Picking balls and crushing wide-outs.

One of the biggest improvements, was the Eagle ground game. The running back trio of Edwards, Taylor, and Cheatham ripped off chunks yards on their way to one of the best Faulkner ground attacks in school history.

This is something that Faulkner has to have if we expect the spread offense to work. When you can run at will, the pass will open up. There was no doubt that it did just that.

Special teams stepped up all day. From Corder punting the ball to, new comer Triston McCathern's 99 yard kick return for a touchdown. This also led to Triston grabbing the Mid South special teams player of the week.

There is no doubt that football is a team sport and in new programs this is the hardest thing to teach. Steps were taken Saturday that showed these guys have bought into Coach Bakers goals and ideas. From a coaching stand point, I was proud to see our guys fight for a chance to win. I won't take anything away from Shorter, they are a great team and won this game. However, we were in this game. If we had scored on that fumble recovery from Willie Mixon, it would have made that a 8 point ball game in the 4th quarter. It sounds like I'm grasping at straws, but these are the little victories that players, coaches, and fans need to grab and build on. Now, the key is, building off of this game. Can we carry it over into the next game. That's another step we need to teach these guys. I can't wait for Saturday and I hope you all feel the same way.

GO EAGLES!

Huntingdon Week.

2009-09-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

For a lot of folks, they just now started thinking about the Huntingdon game. For the Eagles, we started thinking about the Hawks as soon as we got back on the buses after beating Webber. Words or blogs can not express how big this game is for Faulkner. For the past two years, Huntingdon has let the state of Alabama know that Montgomery is Hawk territory and I assure you, they have earned it. Have the Eagles turned the corner? I believe it is very possible they have.

I have been with this program since the very start, and I saw things in the Webber game that I have never seen before. I saw "maturity"! I believe this is something that this team has been lacking for the past two seasons. There were several times during the Webber game when the "old" Faulkner would have folded up, but not this team. They fought every down. This is something that we have lacked.

You better hold on to your hat. This is going to be a brawl. Turk ALWAYS has those boys ready and they play like it's their last. Well, so do we. I'm looking for an old fashion throw down. So if you want to see a great college football game, head on over to Huntingdon this Saturday and watch two class teams go at it.

1-0

2009-09-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a great weekend. For the first time in Faulkner football history, the Eagles have started the season 1-0. I've been with the program since the start, and I can tell you that this team has a completely different attitude. When we boarded the bus we had a very business like attitude and I believe it showed on Saturday.

Let me start by saying that in the past two years Faulkner has some good defense, but nothing like we saw on Saturday. The Eagle defense was insane. Time and time again the defense stood strong. With three pass breakups, one interception, two forced fumbles, and two blocked kicks I believe they did their jobs. Oh, did I forget the four sacks? Yes, the Eagle defense played the best I have ever seen.

The offense is still a work in progress, however it showed just how fast it is capable of playing. True freshman, Joe Scott was called on to lead the team and he did a great job. Again, being since 2007, I can see a complete transformation. I'm expecting great things from the offense this year.

I think the biggest thing I was proud of was how mature our players were under pressure. Our guys battled all day against all kinds of obstacles. I believe that the Eagles may have turned the corner. Now it's back to work and prepare for the Hawks. Hope to see you there. If you were not able to be at the game, check out this link from Ryan Bartels. He did a GREAT job on filming. Enjoy.

http://faulknereagles.wordpress.com/

GO EAGLES!

First Scrimmage of 2009!

2009-08-10T11:14:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that the first week of fall camp is under our belts, and we take another step closer to our first game on Aug. 29th. On Saturday we took our show on the road to Lee High School in front of a pretty good crowd for our first full scrimmage of this year. As a coach, I feel that we are moving fairly well in the right direction. Defense is always going to be ahead of the game this early...which is good. Most of our turnovers were due to tipped/dropped balls from our receivers. This is very fixable problem. Pass protection was solid, in fact, it was better then I have seen in some time, which our running backs enjoy very much. It was great to see some young players step up and make a name for themselves. A.J. Yelder ran from the opposite side of the field to lay a block that sprung Jurell Williams on his touchdown. That is just pure hustle. Leslie James, freshman from Andalusia, Alabama was very impressive. In this type of offense it's attention to detail that brings success, and players like James did just that. The little things in the game are just as important as the big things.

Defensively, I was impressed with the "hitters" that were on the field. It seems to me that our guys are flying all over the field and making big hits. Not to mention that they missed very few tackles. This is a huge improvement from last season. It always seemed that we had a hard time wrapping up last season. Well, it looks to me that problem has been addressed. Thom and Riggins were two linebackers that delivered some pain. There were many others.

This blog is meant to let our Eagle fans know about this "ins and outs" of our program. I can assure you that many of the problems from 2008 have been addressed. So get ready for a great season.

GO EAGLES!

2009 Fall Camp

2009-08-07T05:03:00.000-07:00

When Gregg Baker pulled through the gates at Faulkner University on Monday, he had butterflies in his stomach.
The first-year head coach was about to conduct his first practice, and he was suffering from a strange combination of nerves and excitement.
"My stomach did a couple of flips," Baker said Monday afternoon, in between the Eagles' 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. two-a-day practices. "I never imagined this (when I accepted an assistant's position at Faulkner last year).
"Five years ago, I was the offensive line coach at Prattville High School, and I thought I'd hit the big time then. This here is just unbelievable to me. When I came through that gate this morning, I thought, 'I'm about to hold my first practice.' I can't describe that feeling."
After the initial weird feelings, though, the day went about like Baker expected.
The coaching staff wasted no time, as it went about installing new special teams formations and implementing new offensive and defensive schemes.
New defensive coordinator Duane McWhorter, the former Jeff Davis High School head coach, began teaching his philosophies to the players, and a five-way battle for the starting quarterback position got under way.
"Honestly, it was just a regular day," Baker said. "It wasn't much different from the practices last year. The coaches had everything very well organized and the players were ready to work. I couldn't have asked for more."
Monday's primary objective for the coaches was to evaluate the players and get some sense of where things stand at various positions. That theme will be carried out throughout the week, as the staff gets a handle on the talents of the new players.
"We've got a lot of good athletes that are new in the program and we're looking to see how all the pieces fit together," Baker said. "That will be the goal over the next couple of weeks (of camp). We've got our work cut out for us there -- there will be some good battles at some spots."
No spot will be more contested than quarterback.
As practice began Monday morning, five players -- two returning players, a junior college transfer and two incoming freshmen -- were vying for the starter's job.
And Baker said there was no favorite.
"It's a good, good battle for that spot that's probably going to go down to the week before that first game," he said. "I consider that a good problem to have -- having five guys qualified for the job. These are five pretty good QBs."
Faulkner will practice twice again today, Wednesday and Friday, once on Thursday and will hold its first scrimmage of the fall on Saturday at 9 a.m. at Robert E. Lee High School.

Josh Moon-Montgomery Advertiser

Coach Fipps Joins the Crew.

2009-07-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is one of those new faces.

Coach Corey Fipps joined the Eagle staff this past spring where he has taken over the Offensive Coordinator duties. Corey is a high energy coach that the players have already grown to love. Corey is from Maxwell, California and were he was a four year Letterman in football and basketball. He played three seasons at offensive tackle for Harding University. Corey graduated from Harding University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology. He quickly followed that up with a Masters of Science in Kinesiology in 2008.

Corey has been in coaching since 2004. His most recent work was as the offensive line coach for Harding University for the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

He met his wonderful wife, Jennifer at Harding University. They just recently have become proud parents for the first time with the arrival of a beautiful baby girl named, Kensley Anleen.

I have had the pleasure of working with Corey for only 6 months and I have been impressed with his knowledge of the game and his genuine love for the young men he coaches. We are expecting great things from Corey and we are proud to have him as a part of the Faulkner family.

It's Time To Get Ready!

2009-07-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

It's hot and muggy outside, so that must mean fall camp is close. You better believe it is. It's that time of year again for Faulkner football to start flying high. August 1st all players report to camp, with the first practice under new head Coach Gregg Baker starting on the 2nd. This is going to be fun. We've climbed some serious hurdles this past year, and we are ready for a new beginning. We had our best spring ever and we are looking to build on that. The players, coaches, and fans are ready for the best year in Faulkner Football history.

Things are a little different now as we bring in a few new coaches and a lot of great young athletes. In the coming days, weeks, and month we will be introducing you to the new Eagle family. Don't think I'm leaving out our returning players, but when you see how hard they have been working this summer, you'll think they are an all new team. I'm already working on a few stories that I will be posting on a regular basis not to mention some new changes to the program.

So stay tuned.

GO EAGLES

Our Fallen Eagles

2009-04-28T09:04:00.000-07:00

I've struggled the last few days on what I can possibly type on this blog that would give comfort to all those who read it. I've tried time and time again to type, and end up just shutting off my computer. T and Ryne were outstanding young men. People often say that about people who pass from this life, but these two guys were the real deal. They really are the type of young men that this institution meant to have as a member of the Faulkner football team. Ryne and T were friends to everyone they came across. They exemplified this university and this program. We remembered these young men in a memorial service on campus Monday. I could not be more proud to be a part of this Faulkner football family. The families of both young men were in attendance along with the entire University. I believe the families now know just how much we loved T and Ryne.

The players sat with a smile on their faces as they watched a slide show of the lives of T and Ryne. In a way this picture encompasses how everyone felt about these young men. All we knew of Ryne and T was the smile they always had and the smiles they spread to everyone they knew. 20 years from now as memories of touchdowns and tackles fade from our thoughts, the love of brotherhood through teammates will always remain. It's a bond that only teammates will know. A tie that can never be broken no matter the score of a game or the outcome of a game. I think Coach Baker said it best in a poem that he wrote just for this occasion.

Remember Us
To the living, we are gone.
To the sorrowful, we will never return.
To the angry, we were cheated.
To the happy, we are at peace.
To the faithful, we never left.
We cannot be seen, but we can be heard.
So as you push through the tough times, remember us.
As you celebrate life's victories, remember us.
As you cheer our Eagles, remember us.
Remember us, in your heart, your thoughts, and your memories.
The times we've shared, the times we've cried, the times we've laughed.
For if you always think of us, we will have never gone.
Ryne and T, We will never forget you.
BY GREGG BAKER, FAULKNER HEAD FOOTBALL COACH

Though we will take the field on August 29th for our next game, we will not be alone. As the whistle blows we will always have the comfort knowing that our brothers are there. In our locker room, on the sideline, in the huddle, on the field, and in our hearts. T and Ryne will ALWAYS be our SOARING EAGLES.

Cherish the time you have with your friends, families, and teammates. Take every moment to let someone know that you care. As T and Ryne did, live your life giving joy to others.

Faulkner football players killed in Chilton County wreck

2009-04-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

Two Faulkner University football players were killed in a two-vehicle wreck in Chilton County on Monday morning.

Ryne K. Wilhite, 19, of New Albany, Miss.; and Teirson D. Holiis, 20, of Douglasville, Ga., both were fatally injured in the wreck, according to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Wilhite was driving a 1996 Ford Explorer on U.S. 82 about nine miles east of Maplesville at 5:10 a.m. when the wreck occurred. The men were returning from visiting a friend in Tuscaloosa, according to a news release from Faulkner.

“I’ve never been through anything like this – it hurts so much,’’ Faulkner head coach Gregg Baker said. “T and Ryne were both great kids, two wonderful Christian young men. The only thing that is helping us right now is the fact that we all know exactly where they are, and that’s with our God in Heaven.’’

Hollis and Wilhite were both offensive linemen, with Hollis having been with the program since its inaugural season in 2007. Wilhite had just transferred to Faulkner this semester and went through his first spring practice last month. Hollis, a native of Douglasville, Ga., played high school football at Robert S. Alexander High School. A native of New Albany, Miss., Wilhite played for Northeast Mississippi Community College last season.

“Both of them were always smiling and joking around,” Baker added. “They may no longer with us here, but T and Ryne will always be a part of this program. Always.’’

Flags on the Faulkner campus were flying at half-staff by mid-day Tuesday. The Faulkner football team was informed of the tragedy by Baker and his staff just after the school’s academic honors convocation Tuesday morning. Simultaneously, Faulkner president Dr. Billy D. Hilyer informed the rest of the student body, faculty and administration. Grief counselors have been made available to everyone on campus.“This is a very difficult day for our family,’’ said Hilyer, who also addressed the football team Tuesday. “My primary mission on this campus is to be there for our students and to help provide them what they need to earn a quality Christian education. In many ways, they are like my children. And this just breaks all of our hearts. The message that it should send to everyone is just how much we need God, who we know also lost a child. And it’s the blood of Jesus that we embrace today.’’Funeral service arrangements have yet to be determined.
Alabama State Troopers are investigating the accident.
-- Scott Johnson

2009 Recruiting Class

2009-04-01T07:31:00.000-07:00

One of the questions I get the most is, how are recruiting class is going. Well, let me answer that for you. We are still hot and heavy into recruiting and will be up until August 1. So far, we are very excited about who we have signed at this point. Here are some of your new 2009 Faulkner Eagles.

Michael Uranga-OL/6'2/282/Prattville High School
Mitchell Thornton-OL/6'3/286/Prattville High School
Joe Scott-QB/6'0/180/Northside Warner Robbins, Ga.
Ryne Wilhite-OL/6'3/310/Northeast Mississippi Gulf Coast CC
Brandon McKenzie-DB/S/6'2/215/Mississippi Gulf Coast CC
Tyler Renfroe-OL/DL/5'11/275/Stanhope Elmore
Zach Lee-OL/6'4/280/Stanhope Elmore
A.J. Wilson-RB/5'10/180/Stanhope Elmore
Corey Renella-OL/6'2/260/Mosley High School, FL.
Vince Nix-P/K? 5'8/165/Stanhope Elmore
Grant Kimbrough-OL/6'2/250/Stanhope Elmore
Lucas Craig-OL/6'1/230/Stanhope Elmore
T.J. Wells-FS/5'10/170/Stanhope Elmore
Ike Salter-DB/5'9/168/Stanhope Elmore
Isalia Collins-DL/5'11/250/Stanhope Elmore
Tyler Broom-LB/5'11/195/Stanhope Elmore
Harrison Gore-LB/5'11/210/Tattnall Square Academy, Ga.
Gary Wade Jr-LB/6'0/205/Alexander High School, Ga.
Leslie James-WR/6'5/200/Andalusia High School
Lance Kenny-WR/5'11/180/Derby, Kansas
Jeremy Cox-RB/5'11/195/Bessemer Academy
Chris Nelson-OL/6'5/240/Citronelle

Keep checking back for more updates to our list. I'm looking forward to these guys taking the field for the Eagles in 2009.

GO EAGLES!!!!

Black and Blue Game.

2009-03-24T06:59:00.000-07:00

With the rain coming down, the 2009 Faulkner Eagles took the field for the annual spring game. Because of earlier competition during the spring, the offense won the right to wear the black uniforms for the game. Thus the name new name "Black and Blue" game. We had hoped for better weather, but it turned out okay in the end.

This year Coach Baker implemented a scoring system that would allow the defense to score points. It was a tight game all the way until 3:12 left in the game when Jurrell Williams caught a pass and a key block from Bobby Britton and went 80 yards for the winning score. The score gave the offense a 37-34 victory over the defense. TJ Jacobs and Nick Garrett combined to go 27-36 for 405 yards and 3 touchdowns. Williams caught 4 passes for 111 yards. Luther Burton 4 catches for 91 yards. The ground game struggled at times, but still was able to gain 100 yards and 1 touchdown by Lincoln Taylor.

Defense was led by Roger Barker who recorded two sacks. Quintory Braswell, Anthony Haywood, and Emmanuel Godfrey each had 4 tackles. Leroy Whitner recorded some points with an interception in the 2nd quarter. Justin Gomez scooped a fumble and scampered 48 yards before get run down on the 1 yard line (by Joe Burton who fumbled).

All in all, it was a great day even with bad weather. A large number of fans came out to watch. We also had about 20 recruits out to watch. After the game, we had a great lunch prepared by the coaches wives and families. It was a great day.

Now it's back to the weight room/classroom to get prepared for the season. The Eagles open up with Webber College in Orlando on August 29th.

GO EAGLES!

Eagles Offense Soars During Spring Scrimmage.

2009-03-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we took are show on the road and had a scrimmage at Jefferson Davis High School. Needless to say it was a day that our defense would like to forget. On the flip side of that, the offense showed that they have improved this spring. The Eagles ground game had 12 carries for 129 yards and one touchdown (no fumbles). The Faulkner air attack went 21-31 for 272 yards and 2 touchdowns. The offense could have added another touchdown late, but got bogged down inside the 20 and went for it on 4th and long. The defense did stand tall on several plays with two interceptions and two sacks.

All in all, the team is looking very good this spring. As we prepare for our third season of competition at Faulkner University, our older guys are now stepping up and taking a leadership role. There are several former red shirts making a name for themselves and are moving quickly into key roles. Things are setting up nicely for the annual Blue and White game scheduled for this Saturday at Cramton Bowl at 10 am. Come out and see how far your Faulkner Eagles have come. We'll see you out there.

GO EAGLES!

Last week of spring practice.

2009-03-07T06:59:00.000-08:00

Heading into the last week of spring practice, things are starting to come together. It's amazing how far we have come in such a short time. Defense is looking very strong. They have been giving fits to our running game. This is a welcome sign, since last season we had trouble with defending the run. The defensive coaches addressed that problem early this spring and it shows. Not to be out down, the offense is really clicking in the pass game. If we can't get the ball to the backs on the ground we'll get it to them in the air and we have done just that. This week will be all polish for the Blue and White game on Saturday March 14th. The players have already begun the chatter back and fourth that comes with a big game. I think I even saw a smile from the offensive coordinator yesterday.

I'm glad so many of you read the blog, but instead of reading about the Blue and White game on the blog, come on out and see it for yourself on Saturday. It is going to be a great game. See you there.

Blue and White Game.

2009-03-03T07:34:00.001-08:00

Last week we had temps in the 70's, storms with tornados, then capped with a weekend of snow. To say the least, we have missed a few days of practice. Even with that being said, we came out Monday and had a great practice. After the offense dominated the defense last week, they came back on Monday and had some revenge. The attitude and fire of both sides of the ball is looking good. Defense, led by senior Sean Thom are flying around and making plays. While the offense are connecting on many of their pass plays. The improvement from last spring to this spring is evident. This is setting up for a great annual Blue and White showdown on March 14th. Last year, the offense was learning a new offense, and now it looks that the team has bought into the system and are hitting on all cylinders. If you are looking for a great show of our athletes, come out on March 14th at 10am in the Cramton Bowl. Not only will the Faulkner Family be out in force, but so will all of our 2009 recruits. Make your plans to come out for some Faulkner fun and football.

Spring is in the air.

2009-02-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

With 5am work-outs out of the way, spring practice is in full swing. The Eagles have geared up for the big push to make some noise in the Mid-South Conference in 2009. 5 practices into spring ball and things are starting to click. New head coach Gregg Baker is liking what he sees.
"Things are going smooth and the tempo is great" stated Baker. Practice Thursday ended with some good ole smash mouth 11 on 11 with both sides of the ball looking good. Faulkner hit the practice field last week with 84 players, which included several new spring transfers. Several of the new players have already begun to stand out. Spring practice will conclude on March 14th with the annual Blue and White game at Cramton Bowl at 10:00am. The game is open to the public. Come out and see your 2009 Faulkner Eagles.

Faulkner Tabs Baker to Lead Football Program

2009-01-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Gregg Baker has been named the head football coach at Faulkner University, school president Dr. Billy D. Hilyer announced Monday.
Baker, who was the Eagles’ running game coordinator and offensive line coach last season, was introduced at a press conference at Tine Davis Gymnasium with Faulkner faculty staff and students joining local media outlets for the announcement. He replaces Jim Nichols, who resigned following the 2008 season – Faulkner’s second of intercollegiate competition.

“This is a dream come true for me,’’ Baker said. “I’m excited about this opportunity. I’m looking forward to leading this program and honoring this university.’’
Baker was an all-city, all-state and All-American selection at Carver High School in Montgomery in 1985. He received a football scholarship at Georgia Tech, where he played for Bill Curry. He spent time as an assistant coach at the high school level at both Jeff Davis and Prattville and was named the head coach at Alabama Christian Academy in 2006. He spend two years there before joining the Faulkner staff in February of 2008.

A committee put together by Hilyer and Faulkner athletic director Brent Barker conducted a national search for the new head coach, reviewing over 100 applications for the job. Nine finalists, which included current college coaches from all levels, were then invited to the campus to be interviewed.

“After interviewing a number of candidates for the job, the committee and I decided there were none better than our own Gregg Baker and with him we have the advantage of some continuity in the program,’’ Hilyer said. “Gregg is very much respected by players and his fellow coaches.’’ Barker said he and the committee were impressed with each candidate, but agreed that Baker quickly emerged as the top choice.

“Gregg has a great reputation around the state of Alabama as an excellent football coach and it became apparent during the process that he was the guy we wanted to lead our program,’’ Barker said. “He is well respected by our faculty and administration, and I think our team is excited to have Gregg as its head coach.’’

**Artical from the Faulkner Sports Information Department***

Post Season Honors

2009-01-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

Now that the holidays are over and the new year has begun, it's time to get to work on the ole blog. A lot of things have happened since the end of the season, but I want to focus on most important thing...the players. Since joining the Mid-South Conference, we are now able to receive post season honors. We were well represented in all areas of awards. Let's get started...

Champion of Character of The Mid-South Conference.
Sean Thom

All-Conference
Sean Thom

All-Conference Honorable Mention
Jared Corder (K)
Matt Fleck (LB)
Brandon Johnson (OL)
Ryan Nixon (DL)
Quinton Prothro (DB)
Jurrell Williams (WR)
Ryan Williams (RB)

Academic All-Conference
Bobby Britton
Frank Chinoski
Landon Taylor
Lincoln Taylor
Sean Thom
Colton Terry
Jurrell Williams

NAIA Scholar All-American
Bobby Britton
Sean Thom

We could not be more proud of these young men. As you can tell, the future is bright with athletes like these.

Why I'm proud to be a Faulkner Eagle!

2008-11-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

With two back to back wins and a Mid-South player of the week, it's real easy to get lost in the numbers and in the simple joy of winning. Sometimes it takes something nobody knows about to let you know what Faulkner Football is all about. Last night I witnessed just such a thing.

For the past few Monday nights we have been sending a few of our players down to Vaughn Park Church of Christ to help out with the Inner City Ministry. This was meant for a few of our guys to help out with under privileged kids for a couple of hours a week. It started out with 5 players and now 20+ are going over every Monday night. So, I headed down there to see for myself what they were doing. Let me tell you...I was BLOWN AWAY! Words can not express how proud those guys made me. They had no idea was coming or that I was even there. I watched as two bus loads of kids pulled up and our players stood in front of the bus doors and picked up every child on their backs and carried them to class rooms. These kids loved it.

Here is running back, Mike Timmons enjoying class with a child.

Right tackle, Paul Adams helps with a puzzle.

D-lineman, Justin Gomez helps answer a question.

Freshman safety, Walter Hough helps some kids with a stroller.

I don't know who is having more fun, the kids or Josh Cooper...

Running back, Scotty Pennington was happy to hang with people shorter then he is ;-)

Linebackers,Sean Thom and Zach Riggins show they have a softer side.

Freshman, Aaron Provins helps a young lady in class.

Chad Collins, Greg Brass, and Colton Terry help with class.

I'm not a good enough writer to properly do these young men justice. It takes an incredible person to leave their comfort zone for the joy of someone else. These guys proved to me that Faulkner Football was a GREAT idea and young men like these will set a high bar for future teams to measure up to. If you know these young men or they are your sons, grandsons, nephews, brothers...you should be very proud of them. If you see them, let them know how proud you are. I have to admit, I may have gotten a little misty watching this last night.

These young children, love these players. Each week kids ask for the same players to carry them off the bus. Some kids won't get back onto the bus unless a player carries them. For some of these kids, it's the only fun they have all week. Watching the expression on their faces was worth any victory we could ever hope to win on the field.

Here is the kicker...everyone of these guys VOLUNTEERED! That's right...this was not some mandatory "do it or run" punishment. We had to put up sign up sheets because so many players wanted to help out.

As I drove home last night, I thanked God for the job I have and the people I work with everyday. Thanks guys for making us all proud to be Faulkner Eagles.

GO EAGLES!

Sean Thom-Mid-South player of the week!

2008-11-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

The 2008 season is a season of firsts. Today we were contacted about another "first" for our young program. Sean Thom from Fort Walton Beach, Florida was named Mid-South Conference defensive player of the week. Sean was all over the field on Saturday making 17 tackles 20 of which were for a lost.

Sean has been leading the nation in tackles for the entire season and is just now getting recognized for his tremendous efforts. As of this morning, Sean has recorded 135 total tackles which is an average of 15 per game. There is a lesson to be learned from this young man. Last season he recorded 87 tackles. During the off season and summer, he informed me that he was going to improve on those numbers. That was not just Sean taking trash. I watched as this young man worked out in the weight room when nobody else could pull themselves out of bed. In fact, there was times we had to kick him out of the weight room. Sean is the epitome of "work ethic". On top of his work on the field he continues his dominance in the class room as well. He has carried and continues to carry a 4.0 in all of his classes. He proves to all of us that hard work does pay off. Great job Sean...keep it up!

GO EAGLES!

Homecoming Victory!

2008-11-03T06:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks to a stingy defense that forced six West Virginia Tech turnovers and a surprisingly good kicking game that produced four field goals, the Eagles beat WVTU 26-15 to win back-to-back games for the first time in school history.
"We knew early on that if we were going to win this game, it was going to be up to our defense," Faulkner head coach Jim Nichols said. "Those guys played a great game. We challenged them and they responded. Our offense was really struggling, especially in the second half, but our D just refused to give up anything."
It didn't hurt that the WVTU offense seemed rather determined to give up everything.
Following the first Faulkner field goal of the day -- a 36-yarder from sophomore Paul Cink -- the Golden Bears responded with a balanced rushing and passing attack that allowed them to go 59 yards in nine plays to grab the lead. Quarterback Michael Scott passed to Patrick Evans for the eight-yard score to put WVTU up 7-3 with 9:15 to go in the first quarter.
On that drive, the Golden Bears picked up 31 yards on four pass plays and ran five times for 28 yards.
"They really hurt us mixing it up on the first drive," Nichols said. "We were scrambling around to make adjustments."
There was no reason to fret.
Not counting sacks, WVTU attempted just 10 more running plays the rest of the game and gained just 15 more yards on the ground. Add in Faulkner's three sacks and the Golden Bears totaled just eight yards on 18 carries.
"The idea after that first drive was that we were going to put as many men as possible in the box and stuff the run," Faulkner linebacker Sean Thom said. "If they didn't run it, we went after the quarterback. It was a surprise that they stopped trying to run it so quick, though."
But they did.
The Golden Bears allowed Scott to attempt 60 passes in the game. He completed just 31 of them. And threw five to Faulkner.
Of Scott's five interceptions, three came on the first play of drives. A fourth came on the second play of a drive. And his fifth ended a possible go-ahead drive when he was picked off in the end zone near the end of the third quarter.
Faulkner, in the meantime, was having problems of its own with turnovers. Eagles quarterback Philip Moore was picked off three times in the game -- all of them coming in the second half. In one four-series stretch in the second half, Moore threw three picks and was whistled for intentional grounding in his end zone for a safety.
"We couldn't do anything offensively there in the second half," Nichols said. "With the defense playing so well, I got to a point where I didn't mind. We were playing it safe and relying on our D."
The one thing Faulkner did have going for it was a hot kicking game. After the early field goal from Cink, sophomore Jared Corder, who Nichols said has the strongest leg on the team, came on to knock through three more.
Corder's first field goal -- a 42-yarder midway through the second quarter - came just 28 seconds after a Moore one-yard TD run put the Eagles up 10-7. Corder also hit from 36 and 27 yards and Faulkner led 19-7 with 8:51 to go in the third quarter.
"You have to get points when you have an opportunity," Nichols said. "We've struggled with that this season, but I was proud of those guys today. They really came through and, I think, helped us maintain some momentum."
The Golden Bears grabbed some of that momentum back with just under six minutes to play in the third, when Scott hooked up with Murvin Johnson on a seven-yard TD play. Moore's grounding penalty and safety came on Faulkner's ensuing drive, allowing WVTU to pull within four with 3:51 to play in the third.
But again, the Eagles' defense came through.
The Golden Bears drove to the Faulkner 14 and were facing a fourth and six. Scott attempted to loft a pass into the corner of the end zone, but defensive back Q Brasswell got in front of his man and made the interception.
Faulkner tacked on a late TD when Moore hooked up with Mike Timmons on a 36-yard screen play with 6:47 to go.
"This was big for us, especially for our defense," Thom said. "We've been talking a lot about doing things right and we finally put it all together here today. It really felt good to play that way."*Kicking it: Coming into Saturday's game with West Virginia Tech, Faulkner was ranked second to last in the Mid-South Conference in field goal kicking. The Eagles had hit just 3 of their 8 attempts, with the longest coming from 27 yards.
Saturday's tally: 4-for-4, including a 42-yarder and two 36-yarders.
Asked if he was surprised by the sudden accuracy of sophomore kickers Paul Cink and Jared Corder, Nichols was said he knew it was just a matter of time.
"We know their abilities," Nichols said. "This was just the first time in six weeks that we haven't had any wind to deal with. I'm serious about that. That's been the problem. These guys were kicking in 15 and 20-mile-per-hour winds every time out."
Whatever prompted the improvements, they were game-changing for Faulkner.
Instead of being stuck going for it on fourth and long inside an opponent's 30-yard line, the Eagles got points.
If the importance of that was ever questioned, all it took was a look to the opposite sideline, where WVTU, which came in 0-for-8 on FG tries, was forced to go for it on four fourth-and-long plays in Faulkner territory.
The Golden Bears didn't convert any of them.*Still hitting: Junior linebacker Sean Thom came into Saturday's game as the leading tackler in NAIA play, with 118 total tackles through eight games. That's an average of just over 14 tackles per game.
Thom did nothing to hurt that average against WVTU, as he racked up 17 total tackles, including seven solo stops.
"He's just got a knack for always being around the ball," Nichols said. "I think it's because he's so smart. He's a 4.0 student and he's very quick. You just expect him to be around the ball on every play."*Firsts: With a second-year football program, the firsts come rather easily. Saturday's win gave Faulkner its first two-game winning streak and was the Eagles' first official win at home. (They beat Kentucky Christian at Cramton Bowl last season, but the NAIA doesn't recognize it as an official game.)
Faulkner also won its first homecoming game and set records for interceptions, total takeaways in a game and field goals. Jared Corder's 42-yard field goal was also a career and program long.

Article by Josh Moon/The Montgomery Advertiser/Nov.2nd, 2008

VICTORY IN THE BLUE GRASS!

2008-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

I know sometimes people think what I put on my blog is simply what people want to hear. However, this is not the case. Last week I posted about the importance of being a good "come from behind" team. I wrote about how we are pretty strong late in games. Well, we proved that Saturday against Kentucky Christian. Heading into the 4th quarter the Eagles were down 21-10 and the Knights of KCU were looking to run down the clock. The defense made a good stop in the middle of the 4th to give the offense a shot. Unable to move the ball, Faulkner punted with about 5 minutes left. Once again, the "D" stepped up and gave us the ball back. With two minutes left, the Eagles drove about 80 yards. A great catch run by Frankie Padula got us close then with one minute left Phillip Moore connected with Luther Burton for the go ahead score. The defense came back out and put the KCU on lock down to seal the win.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, this team is really close. I say it all the time, but it's little things like this that prove that we are knocking on the door. Sometimes, it's hard to keep the faith. It's hard to sit in the stands and watch. But to become the best, you have to start small. I told Coach Nichols, that one day we will sit in some Mid-South Conference locker room and laugh about these days. But in order to get to those days we have to trudge through these days.

What a great feeling. Nothing beats a win, but nothing beats a win that both the offense and defense stood tall in the end when they needed to. I could not have thought of a better way to thank our traveling fans then giving them a road win. So to the Road Eagles, thank you and this win is just as much yours as it is ours.

Now, let's build off this win and win Homecoming this weekend. See you there!

GO EAGLES!

Lambuth game.

2008-10-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

You have to understand how I see things. I understand what goes into building a program. Good people and baby steps. You can't run before you walk. Well, I know we have the good people, and I can see us taking baby steps, so we must be going in the right direction. Saturday at Lambuth was a good step. The final score does not really tell you the whole story. The Eagles did a great all around job. All season, I've seen little glimpses of the ability to come back. That is a huge talent you HAVE to have in college football. Well, Saturday we all saw that Faulkner has the ability to come back. The Eagles brought it within 14 points in the 4th quarter against a good team. You may think I saw that with tongue in cheek, but I assure you, if you saw how bad some of the officiating was, you know just how hard it was to climb back into this thing.

These guys did a great job. You have got to have the ability to fight your way out of a corner when things are not going your way. We proved that we can do that. I can promise you, that things are coming together. There will come a time when those long drives that end because of a penalty will end with a score. There will come a time when we won't have to fight our way back. All of this comes with time. A lot of people tell me that I look at the positives to much...well, I'm cool with that. I know what this group of young men can do, and there will be a day when Faulkner hits on all cylinders. When that day comes...WATCH OUT!

GO EAGLES!

"And the crowd goes wild"

2008-10-21T07:17:00.000-07:00

Let me just say for the record, we have the best fans in all of football. Sure, being a 2nd year program the "newness" of a football program is still in the air, but I'm talking about the hardcore fans that are at EVERY game. There is a group of fans that no matter where the game is, they will be there. I know your telling your self, "the are probably parents". You would be right about that, but those are the type of people you build something around. Nothing is built without a firm foundation, that includes the fans. There have been some games where our visiting fans have impressed other schools. Faulkner traveling fans have even set attendance records at other schools. But that's really not what's important. Let me tell you what is important...

When you run onto the field or off these people are yelling and cheering as loud as they can...that's what's important. These folks care for, not only their sons, but the success of the program. Sure, we've hit our share of bumps along the way, but this program is heading into the right direction. There will come a day when this program is one of the best in the country, and these dedicated fans will be a big reason for that.

So, if you have not been to an away game, I encourage you to make a trip. Once you get there, look around at the Faulkner fans and thank them for making it to every game. For you parents who are unable to make away games...don't worry about a thing...these people are cheering for your boys as well. I assure you that this is a big family and these fans show love to all the team. Please excuse me if I don't list the name for fear of leaving someone off, but you know who you are and on behalf of the coaching staff, players, and the entire University...THANK YOU!

See you in Kentucky!

GO EAGLES!

Sorry for the delay...

2008-10-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posts on the blog. You string together a couple of back to back road trips on top of every day duties and time will fly by. It seems like as soon as you get back from a trip you blink and you are right back on a bus again. Really, that's no excuse, but it's all I got right now. So let me catch up with a few articles today.

Coach Chat with Frank Padulla

2008-09-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

A new feature on the blog this season will be Coach Chat. This is a chance to interview a few of our players and coaches so that you the fan can get to know some of the guys behind the numbers. So this week, I've sat down with Frank Padulla #25 a Jr. wide receiver from Panama City, Florida.

Coach: Frank, what do you think of the season so far?

FP: Obviously I would like us to have more wins, but things are starting to click. I've been in this type of offense before and it takes time to understand it and apply it on the field.

Coach: What is there to understand and apply?

FP: Tempo and finding green. This is a fast pace offense. Everything from play calling to executing the play needs to be quick. Then as a receiver, you must always have the ability to adjust to the QB and get into the open areas of the field. That takes younger players to learn. I think the past two games we've seen this starting to come into play more.

Coach: What's your favorite play?

FP: Any play where I get the ball (Laughing and flashing a wink). no seriously, any play where we are moving the chains. We have a lot of play makers out there and when one of my teammates makes a play is my favorite play.

Coach: Tell me about some one of your favorite play makers.

FP: I like Colton Terry, he's very scrappy and very disciplined. He knows this offense and what it takes to be successful on and off the field. He plays the game like I do. He plays like he's mad, but he's really having fun in everything he does. If I have to pick another play maker it would be Jurrell. You can knock him around and he will always come back and make a play. He NEVER says a word, he just goes to work...I love that.

Coach: How do you see the rest of the season playing out?

FP: Like I said, we are starting to click. We are standing at the door, and we are about to kick it in. If we continue to go in the direction I've seen the past two weeks, we should start putting up big numbers. If we do that, then we WILL win ball games. The coaches have done a great job keeping us motivated and focused on our goal.

Coach: What are those goals?

FP: Coach Nichols said all along that we are going to win our side of the conference and we can do that. Let's face it, we are still building a program from the ground up and we are doing a great job so far.

Coach: How are we going to reach that goal?

FP: Give me the ball! (again laughing)

Coach: Aren't you a little bit cocky?

FP: I have to be. Every time I go across the middle there is some linebacker looking to take my head off. The football field is no place to be if you're scared. I have a "go to work" attitude. No excuses...no matter what...do your job no matter how bad it will hurt. That requires a bit of attitude.

Coach: What do you plan to do after college?

FP: I'm planning on attending law school. Some folks have told me that I have a gift of "running my mouth". So, the best place for me to put that into use is in law. Seriously, I think I can help people and I want to put all of my talents to ggod use.

Coach: Thanks for your time and effort...now get to class!

FP: Yes sir.

Check back for more chats with players.

GO EAGLES!

Got to love those fighting Eagles!

2008-09-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

When #18th ranked Union rolled into town, nobody gave the Eagles much of a chance. Once again Faulkner proved that they can play in this conference. After a tough loss against Huntingdon a week earlier, the Eagles went from the pot into the fire with Union. Loaded with pure athletes, Union looked to keep their undefeated streak alive. With the exception of ANOTHER big play, we were in this thing all the way.

Defense played big all day. After that big run, the defense got mad and started digging in. I know I say things like "if" and "exception of", but these are things you have to consider in a young program. There is really no excuse for giving up a 99 yard run or any big play for that matter. However, when you are playing your 13th game in history and you still hold the #18 team in the country to 23 points, you have to look at every little thing.

Bottom line, our defense did a great job. The QB for Union said he had never been hit that hard all season. Granted, that doesn't take the stink out of a loss, but again, we are building something bigger then ourselves. Sure, it's easy for us to sit here and complain about the losses, but when you are building something that will be here long after you are gone, this should be looked at as a huge moral victory.

As a coach, you want the "W", and often get tired of hearing, "you guys are getting better" but our fans our right. We are getting better. That's two straight games where we have been close enough to kick the door in, but just didn't finish. Offensively we have to finish a drive. Last two games we have driven the ball on the first drive then get bogged down. This will come with time. Trust me, the coaching staff and players are doing the right things. We are just learning to finish. Again, building a college program is a monumental task, and things don't happen over night. Just ask Huntingdon and Coach Turk. Not to long ago that team were going through the same growing pains. But games like we have had the past two weeks help that process. Obviously we want to win now...who wouldn't? It will come.We are a young and gritty team. We may be a bit undersized, but everyone on that field and sideline are fighters. Our guys battle to the end, and soon...very soon we will kick down that wall. It just takes time.

So, to all of our fans I say this. Thank you and hang in there. College football is a team effort and we consider you guys just as big of a part of this thing as we are. We can't do this without your support and we are fighting for you guys every week. You guys are helping us build this program from the ground up as well. Years from now we'll all look at these early years with gratitude and fondness. Thanks for all that you do for us and will continue to do for us.

We look forward to seeing you guys this weekend in Rome, Georgia as we take on the Hawks of Shorter. So pack your bags and let's roll into Rome as one big Faulkner family.

GO EAGLES

Another first...

2008-09-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's not that unusual for a second year team to have a lot of "firsts" in anything they do. However, this will be the first time Faulkner hosts a ranked team. Union College rolls into town ranked 18th in the latest NAIA poll. Union has started the season 2-0 and look to adding to that on Saturday. The Eagles from Faulkner plan on not letting that happen. This is an exciting moment, having a ranked team come into our house. This is a great opportunity for us to keep heading in the right direction.

Now the story that is making all the noise is Willie Williams. Union's starting middle linebacker has been a journeyman for some time and has now made his home at Union. Once one of the most highly recruited linebackers in the country, now after some trouble off the field is looking to make an impact one last time in the college ranks. There is no doubt that he can flat out play, but there are 10 other guys that have to make plays as well. Someone asked, "how do you prepare for someone like him?". Simple, go where he aint and make him miss. He is really not a big concern for our game plan. If we run our offense the way it should, then there will be and should be open areas of the field. Bottom line, if you hit the open areas, it won't matter who is out there.

Fans, it's an early kick-off on this one. Faulkner looks to knock off #18 at 11am on Saturday. We need your support. Come on out and have a great time. We look forward to seeing you out there.

GO EAGLES!

Sean Thom Ranked No. 1 in tackles per game!!!

2008-09-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

Faulkner linebacker Sean Thom sits atop the nation’s defensive rankings averaging 16.5 tackles per game. The junior from Papillion, Nebraska, had 18 tackles Saturday night against Huntingdon and had 15 in the program’s opener against Samford. The 18 tackle performance against the Hawks tied his single game best of 18 last year against Southwestern Assemblies of God.

Congratulations to Sean for all of his hard work!

Faulkner learns from loss

2008-09-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

From the start of Faulkner's game against Samford last Saturday night in Birmingham, Eagles' head coach Jim Nichols knew his squad was in trouble.
Nichols had said prior to the game that his team would need to play the perfect game to have a shot. On the first play from scrimmage, those dreams were dashed, as running back Ryan Williams fumbled.
And it only got worse from there, as Samford rolled to a 62-0 win.
"We took it on the chin," Nichols said. "There's no way around it. We didn't play well enough to win that game, but let's be honest, that was a very tough game for us to play at this point just two years in."
Despite the lopsided loss, both Nichols and starting quarterback Phillip Moore called the game with Samford a good learning experience. And Moore believes it will help the Eagles throughout the season.
"Seeing that kind of speed and that kind of size was good for us, because we won't see anything like it the rest of the season," said Moore, who was 3-of-9 for 35 yards and one interception against the Bulldogs. "Plus, it was a whole different setting up there than anything else we'll see this year. I think it helped us in a bunch of ways."
It didn't help so much from a coaching aspect, however.
Because the Samford players were so much bigger and so much stronger than any of the players Faulkner will face this season, Nichols said it was tough to judge just how well his players performed.
"You just don't know whether the reason this play didn't work or the reason that mis take was made was because they were so much faster and stronger than any of the teams we'll prepare for," Nichols said. "From that standpoint, we really didn't get a good idea of how well we executed. We could see some things, but not much. It's like I told (Huntingdon head coach Mike) Turk, 'Here's the film (from the Samford game), but I don't think you'll be able to tell much.' "
While he couldn't tell much about execution, Nichols learned a lot about his players.
"You don't want something like this to affect their psyche and it hurt the rest of the year, and I really don't think that's the case with this team," he said. "These guys seem to have put it behind them."
Moore said the upcoming rivalry game against cross-town rival Huntingdon helped speed up the healing process.
"It's good that this game comes now," Moore said. "When we all got to the field house on Sunday, it was an upbeat environment. Everyone was ready to work and get that game behind us. It was good to see. And we've been focused ever since. That game (against Samford) hasn't affected us."
If only the same could be said for the coaches.
"The coaching staff is taking it harder than the kids," Nichols said. "You know, those guys pour everything into getting the team ready, and a loss like that really hurts them. The kids are more resilient. The coaches hang on to it a little longer."
Note: Tickets for Saturday's game between Faulkner and Huntingdon are $5 for students and $10 for general admission (kids under 10 are free). Tickets can be purchased at the Faulkner athletic offices or at Cramton Bowl on the day of the game.

We stand on the shoulders of giants.

2008-09-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

Last month James H. Faulkner Sr. passed away at 92. I don't have the words to express to you what he meant to this University and the state of Alabama. Many of us were lucky enough to know him personally. He was a great man. This past spring the coaching staff went down to visit him for a little bit. He was a big Faulkner football fan.

This season the Eagle football team will remember this legendary man by placing an helmet decal on everyone of the players that take the field this season. Lets face it, none of us would be where we are today without the great work and big heart of Brother Faulkner.

Faulkner vs. Samford

2008-09-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

Well, it was a great weekend for the Faulkner Eagles. You are probably saying to yourself, "62-0, what is so good about that"? A lot of things. Sure, the game didn't end up like we had hoped for, but we did gain valuable experience for stepping up to the challenge. Look, Samford asked a lot of teams to play that game and everyone turned them down. Not us. You don't learn anything from hiding. It was a great opportunity for the players and coaches to go against D-1 talent.

Samford was bigger, stronger, and faster. However, you learn a lot about yourself playing teams better then you. Faulkner football will not duck anyone wanting to play. Our guys learned a lot about themselves with this game. Our guys NEVER rolled over. They fought and they fought hard. And the coaches saw a lot of positive things as well.

When you play a team that much better then you, you find out who REALLY wants to play on your team. We had an opportunity to play some younger guys and see what they have as well. Plus, this was a great college atmosphere, and it was fun for all of us to see what it's like at that level. Nobody wants to get blown out like that, but sometimes it has to happen to move your program into the right direction. That's what this game has done. We see where we are and now we see where we want to be. I would also like to add that this was an extremely clean game. Both teams played with class. Samford could have showboated all night and they didn't. On the flip side, we could have turned over and started playing cheap, and we didn't.

Again, I'm proud of the players and coaches. I think they did Faulkner proud. There is more to a game then just the score. We have come a long way in just one year, and we showed it at Samford. On top of all of that, we had a great crowd. I can't say enough about our fans. They showed up and they showed up big. Not only that, but they stayed for the whole game. The players, coaches, and even Samford noticed how strong our fan support was. On behalf of the whole Faulkner University Football family, let me say "thank you" to all of you who came out. It was a great feeling seeing you all there to support us.

I promise you, we are growing and getting stronger. With your continued support, Faulkner Football will become a top notch program in the very near future. Thank you again.

Now it's time for the Hawks of Huntingdon...see you there!

GO EAGLES

Twas the night before Samford...

2008-09-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

Well, the meal is over, meetings are done, and the players are all tucked in with visions of touchdowns and victory dancing in their heads.

The team arrived right on time this afternoon under police escort through Birmingham. The meal of pork chops, beef tips, and apple pie ended an afternoon of excitement.

Sean Thom and Edmund Curry are proof that Faulkner football players know how to eat before a big game. After supper we had a team devotional lead by Coach Nichols. From supper we went right into offense and defense meetings where we went over last minute changes and updates. The guys had some down time after that right before bed check.

The special part of the evening was after the meetings. Some of the coaches made a drive over to the Children's hospital to visit Dean Briggs newborn granddaughter that has been there for 4 weeks now. Let me tell you, Dean is one proud grand dad...as he should be. We all had an opportunity to visit with baby Reagan and some of the amazing nurses from the hospital.

I'll tell you this, a walk through that hospital or watch these people work, you'll see REAL heroes. Football and this game really mean nothing...it's just a game, but meeting some people that really make a difference in life puts things in perspective. These kids are amazing. We had a chance to talk with one young man who just had a cancer treatment, and loved to talk about video games, so Coach Howell went into detail about the history of Donkey Kong...he's truly a renaissance man. This is a great hospital that does unbelievable things for people. God Bless the Children's Hospital.

Go Eagles!

Here we go....

2008-09-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

The last team practice ended Thursday at 5pm with Coach Nichols telling everyone that it's time to take care of business...and he was correct. The Birmingham paper says that Samford does not know what to expect from Faulkner. Well, that's what we are planning to show them on Saturday night. Practice on Thursday went well with spirits high and tempo even higher.

The buses should pull off of campus at 3:30pm sharp and head to Birmingham. We'll have several meetings and walk thrus tonight and in the morning. The players will have time on Saturday to relax in their rooms and enjoy some football on tv before we head over to Samford. I don't have to tell you how big a game this is for our program. This game has drawn statewide attention and we are looking to make our presence felt on the football landscape in the great state of Alabama. We hope that everyone will come out and watch a great football game.

Stay tuned for further updates this weekend.

GO EAGLES!

Eagles work on specifics

2008-08-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

Faulkner head football coach Jim Nichols used Thursday's practice to prepare his Eagles for next weekend's meeting with NCAA D-I Samford University.
"We have to fine-tune our special teams to get ready for Samford," Nichols said. "You can win games with special teams because of momentum and change of possession. Against Samofrd, we really don't want to mess it up on special teams."
Nichols also wants to make improvements over last year's performance on first down. "We have got to do better on first down this year over last year. We have to find a way to keep our offense on the field longer."
Nichols also noted that he was pleased with Thursday's performance by defensive tackle Ivan Freeman of Dothan, and defensive back Anthony Haywood of Montgomery.
The Eagles begin the season at Samford in Birmingham at 6 p.m. Sept. 6.

-Montgomery Advertiser

Game week!

2008-08-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well folks, here we go! After a good break from hurricane Faye the program is ready to roll into game week. Where has the summer gone? This time next week will be rolling into Birmingham, Alabama to prepare for our first showdown with Samford. Things are starting to click at practice and confidence is high. Coach Nichols has been pleased with the tempo of practice. I have to say, that our guys are in a lot better shape then we were at this time last year. This should translate into a very competitive team.

Now everyone shifts gears. Coaches, players, and even the fans. The coaching staff and players go into a new schedule mode. Lots of film, meetings, and practice. While the fans start planning for the trip to all of our games. Let me just say, that last years fan support was the best. We are depending on that to increase this season.

Now, my plan is to update the blog while on the road for the games. I'm going try to include pictures of our game preparation at the hotel. So, keep checking in with me.

Last Saturday's scrimmage.

2008-08-19T06:56:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we took our show on the road and had a scrimmage at Jefferson Davis High School. We got about 90 plays in before darkness shut us down. We saw a lot of great things and we saw some more things we need to work

Coach Nichols was pleased with what he saw. Right now we have about 98% of our offense installed and now it's all about repetition. We had about 120 folks come out to watch and they were please with what they saw as well. I can't tell you how much further ahead we are compared to last year at this time.

Frank Padulla had a big day with several diving grabs and a touchdown. We are expecting big things from the Panama City native. The other receivers are having a great fall as well.

With this new offense, the ball is flying around the field like never before. However, we find ourselves in a "catch 22". Now that are running game is hitting on all cylinders, we are finding it hard to pick plays. Don't get me wrong, that's a great a problem to have. Not to mention we never had that problem last season.

Ryan Williams continues to impress the coaches as well as frustrate the defense with his slash and cut running style. He is a man of few words but his running says it all. Don't get me wrong on my blog, I talk a lot of offense, simply because I coach running backs. But our defense is looking strong once again.

We have another scrimmage this Saturday at the Cramton Bowl. Stay tuned for more.

GO EAGLES!

Fall camp coming to a close.

2008-08-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Fall camp is almost over and the school year is about to start. All this means is a change of pace. During fall camp our schedules went something like this:

Treatment: 7am
Breakfast: 8am
Position meetings: 9:30am-11am
Coaches meetings: 11am-12:30pm
Lunch: 12:30pm
Practice: 3:15pm-5pm
Dinner: 5:30pm-
Weights: 7pm-10pm
Bed check/lights out: 11pm

As you can tell, we are go go go all day. With the academic year beginning, we look at changing gears and focusing on the entire student athlete. Bottom line is this, these guys are students first, athletes second. The intensity does not waiver during this time, but we begin to really focus on our first game on Sep. 6th against Samford.

So, get ready folks, the clock is running and we are closer to the first game of the 2008 season. Get your tickets today.

GO EAGLES!

week 1 down!

2008-08-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

The first week of fall camp ended with EXTREME optimism. The players are quickly coming together to form a great team. When you have a strong spring like we had, you hope that everyone comes back and picks up where you left off...and man did we ever. The new guys have stepped in and have started to make names for themselves.

I think I've been more impressed with the older guys showing the new guys the ropes. Last season everyone came in at the same time, so nobody stood out to take on a leadership role. This year is not that way at all. Returning receivers are teaching younger guys routes, returning linebackers are helping the up and comers, and the returning offensive linemen are showing the new guys all the best places to eat in town.

If there is one thing that has not changed in the Faulkner Football program, it's the hitting. Not only did we recruit great character athletes, we recruited some GREAT BALL PLAYERS!

Look for another season of smash mouth Faulkner football. Last season, it was the defense that could deliver the big hits, but this year offense has some guys that can deliver a "knock out" blow.

Despite the 130 degree field temperature, President Billy Hillyer came out to wish us well and welcome the new guys to the Faulkner Family.

We ended the week with an 70 play scrimmage to take a look at what we have installed during the week. For the second day in full pads, we saw a lot of great things. Not to mention more then 100 people came out to just watch practice.

All I can say is, get ready folks, this is going to be a great season. I highly suggest that you buy your season tickets now, and register for the Royal Club while there is still time. This is going to be a great year. 4 weeks from Samford and things are looking great. Check back soon.

GO EAGLES!

Off and Running!

2008-08-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

The Faulkner Eagle 2008 season is officially underway. The team met for the first time this year on Sunday night and Monday afternoon the Eagles went to work. The temperatures are hot, but the enthusiasm is even hotter.

Camp opened with a greater number then expected for the second year in a row. Coach Nichols was excited about the caliber of athlete that came in this year. "It looks like all of our work in recruiting has paid off" Nichols stated. I, for one, can tell you that hours upon hours went into recruiting athletes that are great on and off the field this year. Nichols plan was by year three, we would have the team that Faulkner University expects and I believe we are ahead of schedule on that plan.

The first two weeks are focusing on evaluating talent and installing both the offense and the defense. The players schedules are jammed pack from sun up to sun down for the first two weeks. Lots of conditioning and learning going on right now. The players are getting along great and the action should heat up with the addition of full pads on Friday.

Summer camp is packed full of stuff, so I'll try to update all of you as often as I can. Please go by our Faulkner University athletics website and buy your season tickets today. Also, look into joining the Royal Club. Talk to you all soon.

GO EAGLES!

2nd Annual Coaching Retreat.

2008-07-26T06:59:00.001-07:00

Where has the summer gone? With our players reporting in a week, this is truly the, "calm before the storm". In an effort to help the coaching staff relax and regain the focus needed for the next 4 months, Coach Nichols once again set up another coaching retreat. This is basically a working/playing/more working then playing retreat. I'm kidding, but this is a great time for the coaching staff to sit down and present what they plan to do during the season. For the past month the offense and defense has met as staffs to come up with the 2008 game plan, and this is the time we have to go over it.

Football season is a crazy four month odyssey that will go by so fast you would think that you slept through the whole thing. This is another reason why Coach Nichols likes to get the coaches and get them off campus for a few days. It gives us a chance to enjoy each others company and gives us an opportunity to really plan in depth the upcoming season. Okay, and we fish and play golf....you go it out of me...are you happy now?

This season 9 of us are heading to exotic Red Bay, Alabama. That's up in Northwest, Alabama. We have some nice cabins and a good meeting facility. We will spend time doing some fishing and a day of golf, however, most of the time we will be in meetings. It will still be nice to get away for a bit.

Stay tuned for some pictures....

GO EAGLES!

2008 Faulkner Football Screen Saver.

2008-07-10T10:26:00.000-07:00

Here it is folks. If you have ever wanted a Faulkner Football screen saver and a game schedule...kill two birds with one stone. Thanks to our guys in our I.T. department, they have come up with a great screen saver that includes all of our game schedule.

I'm not kidding, this thing looks good. In fact, our whole coaching staff has this on all their computers. Yes, even Coach Nichols. Not only will it make your computer look cool, but it will also let you know when you need to pack up the family and head out to catch the next Faulkner football game. If you are interested in this FREE screen saver...did I say it was FREE? Yes I did! Why are you sitting there reading my blog? Follow the link below and get it today.

http://www.faulkner.edu/athletics/football/multimedia.asp

GO EAGLES!

Top Academic Eagles.

2008-06-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

Building a football program is hard enough, but building a program around quality young men is key. You can get anyone to play football, but getting guys that can hit the field as hard as the books is tough. Coach Nichols and his staff have done just that. When grades came back this summer, the Faulkner football team did an excellent job in the classroom. Two Faulkner eagles had a 4.0 gpa. Six players had a 3.5 gpa or higher. Also there were five players that had a 3.0 gpa or better.
There were also 18 players that had a 2.5 gpa or better. As they say in the south, "that aint to shabby".

A lot of people ask what we do to help these young men in the classroom. Sure coaches know a lot about X's, O's, the weight room, and between the lines, but what do we know about academics. Head Coach, Jim Nichols is always finding ways to help his players excel in the classroom. "Football at Faulkner University is more then just practice and games. It's about a quality Christian education" Nichols said. I have to echo that as well. I know from experience that we have these guys in study halls and tutors are made available for everyone. Coach Nichols meets with each and every player...yes...EACH and EVERY player several times during the semester to discuss their grades. Really, what's the point of going to all the trouble of recruiting a player if he can't make the grades? The better a player is in the classroom the better of an investment he becomes to the program. That's how you build a program from the ground up...it starts with a firm foundation. If you see these guys, make sure you tell them "great job". It's hard enough being a college student, but throw in a full time job of a student athlete and things get really tough. Great job guys, thank you for working hard. Keep it up.

GO EAGLES

Summer Camps

2008-06-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

Faulkner University Football took another step toward success with the first annual summer football camps. This summer we had our first two sessions. June 2nd/3rd we started with grades 2-5. WOW! These kids had a lot of energy.

DJ going in for the score!

Coach Briggs walks away from another one of his interceptions...Dean, stick to linebackers...please!

Our first young group.

Coach Howell pointing things out.

Look at that footwork! Sign him up!

Stay tuned for picture of our older group.

Go Eagles!

Just a little fun...

2008-05-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've made it seem that during the off season the coaching staff does not take time to have a little fun. Well, we do take time out of our schedule to have some fun. It's not all business...

Coach Nichols took time to go play some golf at the Jefferson Christian golf tournament in Birmingham early this summer. Unfortunately for him he brought along Chad Franklin, Eric Howell, and Chuck Knapp. Nichols was heard saying that he needed to hire coaches that had a better golf game. Jefferson Christian put on a great tournament and a great time was had by all.

I guess I might have been wrong about graduate assistants. It looks like they do have a few brief moments of fun from time to time. Heath Strippling and Cam Clark got pulled out of the crowd at the Montgomery Biscuit's game to perform their rendition of YMCA by the Village People. I don't know but it looks like they enjoyed it way to much.

The life of a G.A.

2008-05-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

As you can imagine there are a lot of things to do to keep a college football program up and running. Take it from me, there is a LOT to do. In an effort for college programs to run smoothly a position has been created to do all the things that have to be done at all hours of the day and night. That position is called a graduate assistant. These are the guys that do the jobs from coaching to doing bed checks. Every college program has them. Even Jim Nichols and Eric Howell started off at Auburn as GA's. Our team could not run without them. So, let me introduce our to you.

Blake Boren has been with the program since the start. This man has done just about everything for this team. He has coached running backs and receivers. He is best known for drinking all the Monsters in our office.

Heath Stripling is one of our new guys. He is helping out with running backs and ALL of the filming. He's known as Coach Strip by the players, but he's known for a lot more by the coaches. He is our on staff Geek Squad...literaly.

We have more GA's and their info is coming soon, so stay tuned.

Off season? There is no such thing!

2008-05-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone always wants to know what goes on during the "off season". Well, I'm here to tell you that there is NO off season. I can't talk about any other teams, but I can tell you that the Faulkner football staff goes year round. School has been out for about two weeks now, so let me give you a run down of what we have been up to.

The past two weeks have been spent on the road for every coach on staff. Not only have we been out looking for final few pieces of our 2008 squad, but we have already begun hitting the upcoming seniors (2009) class very heavily. This is no easy task when you consider just how many schools are out there. So this is how we did it.

Gregg Baker hit 21 schools in Southwest Alabama.
Cam Clark hit 20 schools in Georgia.
Eric Howell hit 19 schools in Southeast Alabama.
Chuck Knapp hit 18 schools in North Florida.
Chad Franklin hit 18 schools in North Alabama
Dean Briggs is hitting 18 schools in Mississippi...right now.
I would also like to say that Coach Baker came back into town just long enough to top off his tanks and has headed back out to hit the Nashville area.

That is over 115+ schools in two weeks visited by our coaching staff. From Nashville to Panama City, we have been getting our name out there. We also know that there are schools that we have not visited, don't worry, we are on those in the next few weeks.

Now that some of us are back from the road, we are hard at work breaking down film and preparing for Samford...it will be here before you know it.

Now, to answer your question...there is no off season for Faulkner football. Jim Nichols and his staff knows that we have been giving a giant task of building a program. Not just any program, but a program that will make Faulkner University proud for years to come. This is no easy job and we remind ourselves daily on just how important this is. Continue to pray for this University and this program. Thank you for your support.

GO EAGLES!

Blue and White Game

2008-05-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Faulkner's inaugural spring game featured a little bit of everything on Saturday at the Cramton Bowl -- some offensive fireworks, some defensive dominance and lots of loose footballs.
The defense, or the Blue team, held the offense (White team) from scoring through the first nine series. The Blue team forced seven turnovers and came away with six sacks during the 142-play scrimmage.
Defensive lineman Ryan Nixon led the charge with two sacks and a fumble recovery. Another defensive lineman, Brett Edwards, added seven tackles and two more sacks. Nixon said the defense had been licking its chops since finding out the quarterbacks were live, meaning they could get hit.
"I thought (the defensive linemen) played the best we played all spring," Nixon said. "It felt good to hit (the quarterbacks). I ran over there to touch them and they didn't blow it did, so I figured I'd just lay them out."
Cornerback Dominique Johnson also turned in a strong performance, coming up with an interception and three tackles for loss.
Despite poor field position for a good portion of the afternoon, Faulkner head coach Jim Nichols was pleased with his defense's performance.
"The defense is going to be strong next year," Nichols said."We've got a lot of redshirts, a lot of young guys. We've got some good leaders over there. Our D-linemen were a lot better than (a scrimmage) last Thursday. They got a lot of pressure on the quarterback."
Philip Moore and T.J. Jacobs are still competing for the starting quarterback spot, but neither was impressive early.
In fact, it took a near-disaster to ignite the offense.
On a second-and-18, Jacobs had to chase a high snap down 15 yards behind from where he lined up in the shotgun formation. Once Jacobs picked up the loose ball, he scrambled right before firing a pass to Daniel Ross. Ross caught the pass near the 35-yard line, broke a tackle and then dashed 65 yards for the game's first score. Fumbles became a theme Saturday.

By game's end, there were 14 loose balls, including six errant snaps.
With Faulkner transitioning to Auburn's new offense, the centers are still adjusting to snapping in the shotgun formation on every play. Starting center Caleb Bagley has also missed the entire spring with an injury.
After the initial touchdown, Jacobs enjoyed a decent first half. He completed two more first-half touchdown passes -- on back-to-back snaps.
Jacobs' second touchdown came when he hit Jurrell Williams on a quick screen. He broke a tackle and wrestled another defender for 10 yards on his way to a 23-yard touchdown. On the next play, Jacobs pump-faked the same play. The pump caught Faulkner's entire secondary off-guard and Jacobs lofted a pass down the sideline to a wide open receiver and coasted to a 40-yard score.
Jacobs finished the day 14-of-30 passing for 192 yards and the three scores. However, he was also intercepted twice and sacked for a safety.
Moore didn't lead his first scoring drive until the following drive. Moore's first touchdown came when he kept on an option-read and scampered for an easy 8-yard rushing touchdown.
Moore threw for two touchdowns in the second half and finished the game completing 19-of-32 passes for 180 yards.
"I think the guys really wanted to perform," Nichols said. "They're both trying to compete for the job. In the second half, they both played really well."
Faulkner's new fast-paced offense didn't appear attractive early, but Nixon said the tempo wore on the defense in the second half.
It showed. The Blue team missed several tackles after the halftime break.
"It's tiring," Nixon said. "They're at full-speed every play."
The slow offensive start didn't concern Nichols. Playing in a new offense in front of approximately 600 fans, Nichols even said he thought several players were nervous. Still, the second-year coach came away thinking his offense had progressed significantly.
"This is our 14th practice as far as putting this offense in," Nichols said. "We know it's going to take time. We had a scrimmage last Thursday and we're 10 times better than we were last Thursday."

Luke Brietzke-Advertiser

Rigors of football don't faze Faulkner's Chinoski

2008-04-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

Frank Chinoski saw Faulkner's football facilities when the program had just started. As the first

Faulkner football player, he visited head coach Jim Nichols at the coach's first office -- a single-wide trailer.

The original Faulkner facilities were neither attractive nor impressive. Then again, they were hardly the worst Chinoski had seen.
Chinoski, who enters his sophomore year as the starting strong safety, enlisted in the Marines during his senior year -- 10 days after Sept. 11, 2001. Chinoski previously considered joining the Air Force, but "9-11 (ticked) me off pretty good, so I decided to join the Marine Corps."
Since then, he has served in Iraq for six months and spent a double-shift in Afghanistan, staying for just a few days shy of a year. Chinoski, who was a sergeant in the Marines, was already in Kuwait when the war started.
"I saw Iraq before those people had any freedom," Chinoski said. "They had to really work to have anything at all."
It was going to take a lot more than an unimpressive trailer to keep him from playing football. After Chinoski's four years with the Marines, he started working construction for his stepfather, Joe Prokop. When Prokop heard rumors about Faulkner starting a football program, he encouraged Chinoski to take a look.
That's when Chinoski paid Nichols a visit.
Chinoski told Nichols that he played in high school and played in a base league at Camp Lajeune (N.C.) where he made the all-base team.
Nichols was relieved to have someone interested in his program so early and told Chinoski he would be happy to have him on the team. Two days later, Chinoski was enrolled full-time at Faulkner University.
Chinoski joined the football team because he wanted to play defense and hit people. Ask him his preference between coming up with a big turnover or delivering a crushing blow over the middle, he'll tell you he wants the hit -- every time. In fact, Chinoski moved from free safety to strong safety because he enjoys helping out in run support.
When Philip Moore suffered an injury and had to sit out the season, the coaches asked Chinoski to give quarterback a shot.
Chinoski moved to quarterback, where he played in high school, and split snaps with Chad Kilgore for the first half of the 2007 season.
"I came in to play defense -- I wanted to play defense," Chinoski said. "I had played some quarterback, but didn't know if I could play at this level."
It didn't take long to get an answer.
Chinoski threw a 30-yard touchdown pass on Faulkner's first-ever possession. That turned out to be Chinoski's only touchdown pass in five games as a quarterback, but he did throw for 324 yards in limited action.
Finally, the week of the Huntingdon game, Chinoski was allowed to move back to safety on a full-time basis.
Chinoski said opposing offenses knew he had just switched from quarterback and picked on him last year. He's determined to not allow a repeat this season.
"Being able to spend a whole year at safety, I won't get picked on when I get in," Chinoski said. "I'm comfortable with it now and I don't have any doubts I can play and be effective."
Chinoski is only a sophomore, but at 24, he isn't a normal sophomore. In fact, he's one of the team's greatest leaders.
When teammates start complaining during sprints, Nichols said, Chinoski has even coined an unusual phrase: "It could be worse. We could be in Iraq."
"They think we've got it tough here and they don't know half of it," Nichols said. "That's why, when Frank says something, I think everyone listens."
Faulkner wraps up its spring at 10 a.m. today spring game at the Cramton Bowl.

-Luke Brietzke Special to the Advertiser

Eagles resurrect Thom's football career

2008-04-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

When Sean Thom transferred from North Dakota State to Okaloosa-Walton Community College after his sophomore year, he thought his college football days were over.
Thom had redshirted on the football team at North Dakota State, but he focused primarily on baseball. After problems arose between Thom and the baseball coach, he decided it was time for a change.
That change led him closer to home and, Thom thought, closer to Division I baseball.
"I honestly didn't think I would play football again," Thom said. "Okaloosa-Walton is a real big baseball school. Going in, I thought I would play fall, spring and then coach (Keith) Griffin is usually good about getting players to the next level. I thought I would get into Division I baseball."
Shoulder trouble derailed the second baseman-turned-linebacker's baseball career. That's when he decided to give football another chance.
When Faulkner offered Thom the opportunity to play football again, he jumped at the chance. While Thom hadn't played a football game in two years, he said it didn't take any length of time to get back into the game.
His stats prove that assertion. Thom finished as Faulkner's leading tackler last season. "Sean's one of those guys that you'll see a big hit on the field and you know it's Sean,"
Faulkner coach Jim Nichols said. "You can pretty much bet on it. He knows the defense and he knows where the ball is going to go."
More importantly, Nichols said Thom's so smart that it's like having a second coach on the field. Despite having transferred colleges twice, Thom is a 4.0 student who has never earned anything lower than an 'A' in his academic career.
"It's just one of those things in my family," Thom said. "My dad graduated at the top of his class at Troy and went into the military. They always drilled into me getting my education."
Nichols' thought about Thom acting as a coach on the field is also accurate. When Thom, who will be a redshirt junior, finishes his college career, he hopes to join a major Division I program as a graduate assistant.
One day, Thom hopes to be a Division I coach. As for now, Thom is focused on trying to help Faulkner improve on its 1-9 inaugural season last year. He said the attitude within the program would help the Eagles with a quick turnaround.
"I think we're a lot more confident," Thom said. "Last year, coming into spring, we couldn't really have spring practice and no one knew the coaches or other players too well. Now we've developed friendships and bonds."
And now, at his third college, Thom seems to have found his home.Luke BrietzkeSpecial to the Advertiser
When Sean Thom transferred from North Dakota State to Okaloosa-Walton Community College after his sophomore year, he thought his college football days were over.
Thom had redshirted on the football team at North Dakota State, but he focused primarily on baseball. After problems arose between Thom and the baseball coach, he decided it was time for a change.
That change led him closer to home and, Thom thought, closer to Division I baseball.
"I honestly didn't think I would play football again," Thom said. "Okaloosa-Walton is a real big baseball school. Going in, I thought I would play fall, spring and then coach (Keith) Griffin is usually good about getting players to the next level. I thought I would get into Division I baseball."
Shoulder trouble derailed the second baseman-turned-linebacker's baseball career. That's when he decided to give football another chance.
When Faulkner offered Thom the opportunity to play football again, he jumped at the chance. While Thom hadn't played a football game in two years, he said it didn't take any length of time to get back into the game.
His stats prove that assertion. Thom finished as Faulkner's leading tackler last season. "Sean's one of those guys that you'll see a big hit on the field and you know it's Sean,"
Faulkner coach Jim Nichols said. "You can pretty much bet on it. He knows the defense and he knows where the ball is going to go."
More importantly, Nichols said Thom's so smart that it's like having a second coach on the field. Despite having transferred colleges twice, Thom is a 4.0 student who has never earned anything lower than an 'A' in his academic career.
"It's just one of those things in my family," Thom said. "My dad graduated at the top of his class at Troy and went into the military. They always drilled into me getting my education."
Nichols' thought about Thom acting as a coach on the field is also accurate. When Thom, who will be a redshirt junior, finishes his college career, he hopes to join a major Division I program as a graduate assistant.
One day, Thom hopes to be a Division I coach. As for now, Thom is focused on trying to help Faulkner improve on its 1-9 inaugural season last year. He said the attitude within the program would help the Eagles with a quick turnaround.
"I think we're a lot more confident," Thom said. "Last year, coming into spring, we couldn't really have spring practice and no one knew the coaches or other players too well. Now we've developed friendships and bonds."
And now, at his third college, Thom seems to have found his home.

-Luke Brietzke
Special to the Advertiser

Nichols' Eagles excited about new offense!

2008-04-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

Jim Nichols is an Auburn guy. Faulkner's football coach, who spent three years as a graduate assistant on the Plains, used the Tigers as a template while building the Eagles from scratch in 2006. He used the same terms, held players to the same code of conduct, mimicked Tommy Tuberville's practice schedules and based the school's new fieldhouse on designs he saw at Auburn.
Now Nichols is hoping the Tigers' new offense can help his team.
Faulkner is in the midst of installing the same aggressive passing scheme Tony Franklin brought to the Plains in December.
"We needed something that would make us less predictable and, you know, that's exactly what they're doing at Auburn," Nichols said. "When times got tough, we didn't know how to win. We couldn't score points at the end. We have a lot of skill guys and I wanted a way to get the ball in their hands more often."
Faulkner finished 1-9 during its first season in 2007. The team's offense averaged eight points though the first four games, though increased familiarity helped the team double that rate during its final six games.
That wasn't enough.
Nichols, who learned the scheme during a January consultation with Franklin in Nashville, Tenn., thought his backs and wideouts represented untapped potential last season. He also believes his new quarterbacks, Philip Moore and T.J. Jacobs, provide broad skill sets that will frustrate defenses.
"This is going to make us much more productive because we have speed on the outside that is above most other teams," said Moore, a former standout at Edgewood Academy. "Speed is our biggest strength. I've been surprised by how quickly it's come along for us. We're only a few weeks in and it works. I thought it would take a while."
Franklin's offense emphasizes quick passes to receivers and, ideally, uses the quarterback as a featured running-game element. Nichols isn't prepared to phase out his tailbacks just yet.
The Eagles took the ideas gleaned from Franklin and matched them with running-game plans borrowed from West Virginia. The Mountaineers use a spread scheme, yet found ways to make their tailback an every-down threat.
"The thing about this offense is that you can get away from running the ball if you're not careful," Nichols said. "We want to run at least 40 percent of the time. We like running the ball. That's something I feel strongly about. We're going to attack teams on the ground no matter what."
Everyone at Faulkner talks about the speed.
Power seems almost taboo.
That's because the Eagles didn't have much in 2007. Players arrived on campus just before spring drills and many weren't following workout routines. A summer of sparsely attended voluntary workouts did little to help players gain strength.
That's changing.
The coaching staff managed offseason weight training for the first time this winter. Nichols said a significant number of players will stick around this summer to forward progress made in the weight room.
"We were big like everybody else, but they were stronger. It was easy to see," Nichols said. "Having an offseason to get these kids in shape and help them build their bodies for what they do in the fall is key. It makes a big difference."
Faulkner players say they're starting to feel like college players now. The program spent approximately $350,000 to build the Lee Family Fieldhouse, which includes coaches' offices, a training room, an equipment area and a spacious locker room modeled after -- you guessed it -- Auburn's digs at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Nichols' top priority is to build a synthetic-turf field adjacent to the field house. Preliminary grade work has begun, though the dirt will remain bare until the Eagles raise $500,000.
Nichols hopes construction can begin in earnest this summer.
The team currently practices at Alabama Christian Academy and plays games in Cramton Bowl. The team will hold its first Blue-White spring game there Saturday at 10 a.m.
"You can look around and see that football is coming along," said Jacobs, one of the team's top two quarterbacks. "Once we start winning, it'll all come together. We just have to keep getting better."

Cold Wind and Hot Action!

2008-04-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Monday was our first day in full pads and things looked good. The last cold front of the year swept through which gave us temps in the low 50's. However, the spirited practice heated things up real fast. The guys were itching to hit and they got their wish. We spent a good portion of the practice on Oklahoma drill. If you don't know or have never experienced Oklahoma drill then you are missing one of the best parts of full contact football. Coach Nichols was very excited to see the guys now that they have had a year of strength and conditioning under their belts. Nichols stated, "this where you see who wants to play and who wants to watch from the sideline". He was right.

The usual suspects stood out. Sean Thom, Brian Fulgham, and Frank Chinoski made some noise. Most of Brian's noise came from his mouth, but that's par for the course. However, the guys on offense would not be out done. Jake Lanier, Luther Burton, and Oran Alexander added a lot of punch to the drill. Little Bobby Britton was in almost every time. In fact, I had to hold him out to allow other guys to get some action. Sean Thom and Matt Fleck added a little extra excitement, but it's spring ball and that is to be expected.

Things are gearing up for our first scrimmage on Saturday. Things are starting to come together. Spring has gone very well and it will be interesting to see who is ahead of the curve on Saturday. Most people always seem to think that defense is always ahead of the offense, but this spring may prove that to be a falsehood. Either way, the players are responding well and are having a blast. Bottom line, everyone is excited to be out doing what they love to do. This entire team is truly blessed to be allowed to play and coach the game they love. Not to mention that we are doing it at a wonderful university that has a campus behind us. God is truly good.

GO EAGLES!!!!

April Showers...

2008-04-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Well, spring practice started on Thursday and things went great. I don't know who was more excited, the players or the coaches. The overall attitude of the team was very upbeat. I think this was due to the fact that ACA is allowing us to practice on their fields this spring. So, for the first time in Faulkner football history, we didn't have to pile into cars and drive to a practice location off campus. This alone gave all of us a sense of team that we have not experienced since we started the program. ACA deserves a BIG pat on the back for allowing us to use their facilities this spring. I believe this gesture from ACA will do a lot for our season this fall. In a way, we now feel like we play for two schools and want to do both schools proud. Thank you ACA.

The first practice went great. Both offense and defense looked excited and were wide open. A lot of people came out to see the first spring practice. One person even commented on how good we looked for the first practice compared to last spring. The quarterbacks looked good for putting the ball in the air for the first time. Phillip Moore, Blake Franks, and TJ Jacobs all looked good and now the race is on. Coach Nichols, who took the QB's under his wings this year, had the guys ready and well prepared.

Now for the down side of practice. When it rains, it pours. So far this spring this saying holds true. We been rained out of two practices already. The weather looks good for the rest of the week, so we'll strap it up again on Tuesday.

GO EAGLES!

Field House Dedication

2008-03-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Friday March 28th 2008 served as another moment in Faulkner University football history as we dedicated the new Leopold D. Lee field house.

If anyone knows the Lee family, then they know how well loved this family is not just in Montgomery, but in all of Alabama.

It was an very emotional day for Tim Lee, as the dedication to the facility for his father was a surprise to him.

Dr. Hilyer was at his best while speaking to the crowd about the short, but exciting history of this young program. There is no bigger Faulkner football fan then Billy Hilyer, who took time with coaches afterwards discussing the upcoming season. Don't let his title fool you, this man knows football.

Coach Nichols points to the coaches to let us all know that we will be burning the midnight oil in this facility...like it or not! Trust me, when you see that finger going like that you know that we are about to get to work!

The new locker room.

A few of the coaches offices.

The future view of the Faulkner Eagle Football Complex. Great things like this take time. One step at a time and today was a HUGE step toward our goal. The future of Faulkner football is looking better everyday.

Go Eagles!

On the field and off.

2008-03-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

During this season on my blog I want to take time to give credit where credit is due. With that in mind, there are guys on our team that go above and beyond in the classroom as well as the field of play. Here are just a few guys that can get it done with the ball as well as with the books.

Sean Thom a Jr. linebacker from Fort Walton Beach, Florida has an overall GPA of 4.0. He is also one of our teams leading tacklers. Always on time for class and early to the weight room everyday. He's also looking for a pair of shoes that Coach Nichols owes him.

Dr. Kenny Betts, a Sophomore from Alabaster, Alabama is going to be our team doctor one day. He is one of our leading receivers and our kick-returner. He carries his 3.7 GPA just like he carries the rock.

Bobby Britton is a 5-6 150 pound missile from Panama City, Florida. Don't let his small size fool you, he carries a heavy GPA of 4.0 and runs like a deer. He switched from defense to offense in the middle of the season and looks to make an impact this season in the slot.

Landon Taylor from Killen, Alabama packs a big punch in the classroom as well as on the field. His 3.5 GPA is not to shabby. If you think you see double, well, you are. Landon has a twin brother named Lincoln that also has a 3.6 GPA. That's what you call a "1-2 punch".

Frank Chinoski is the true definition of the word "leader". A sophomore safety that switched from quarterback in the middle of the season last year. Along with his hefty 3.6 GPA, Frank has done two tours in Iraq. He is currently a United States Marine. Thank you Frank for everything you have done overseas, at home, on the field, and in the classroom.

There are many more great stories on our team. Stay tuned for more.

GO EAGLES!

Spring is in the air!

2008-03-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

The weather is getting warmer (between snowfalls) and spring practice is around the corner. This year spring ball will start April 3rd and ending with the Blue and White game on April 26Th. The entire team and coaching staff is chomping at the bit to get started. Unlike last year, we have actually had a strength and conditioning program the entire team has embraced. Before we even take the field this spring, the coaching staff can notice a huge difference in our teams overall condition. As many of you know, our conditioning lacked a little last season. Not because we didn't care about it, but we just didn't have the time or facilities to do what we needed. That is no longer the case. I can tell you that this will have a profound influence during games this season. Games are won and lost in weight rooms, and Coach Howell and Coach Franklin have done everything they can to win ball games with this in mind.

As of right now, we have been running our guys two days a week at 5am. Yes, that is 5 am in the morning. Coaching staff reports at 4:30am to get things ready. I can assure you that it is very dark and very cold during that time of the day. The first morning we had several players slumped over a trash can or two. The players now have responded well and are taking it up a notch. They have only one thing in mind...Huntingdon Sep. 13th. Players and coaches alike are focused on being ready for the Hawks this time around. We know that in order to perform well on that date, we need to be running at 5am. While other teams are still in the rack catching some more winks, we are getting better, faster, stronger. So know this, while you are hitting the snooze button a couple more times, your Faulkner Eagles are already hard at work.

GO EAGLES!

Who's driving this bus?

2008-03-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

Before we get into details about the team, I need to introduce you to the cast of characters that will be leading this squad into battle: Let's start from the top.

Jim Nichols is our fearless leader. A master of organization, motivation, and a texting crazy man. This man knows only one speed...WIDE OPEN! If you think I'm kidding, come by the office at 2am and you'll find him here doing everything from drawing up plays to vacuuming the complex. Nobody puts in more time than this guy. I challenge anyone who thinks they can lay down a text message faster then Jim. On a serious side, I never seen someone care more about the well being of his players then Jim.

Eric Howell is our Defensive Coordinator/Strength and Conditioning guru. If it has to do with a weight or a defense, this man knows it. A jack of all trades, Eric can have a discussion on financial planning and the state of the nations economy to spitting out every fact on 80's music trivia that you can throw at him...who said All-American linebackers can't be smart? This man wakes up every morning at 4am to throw up some weight, delivers his kids to school, then puts a full day at work. Whatever you do, don't think you can cross him up at Xbox...cause it aint happening.

Dean Briggs is our elder statesman. Dean-O, is our resident color commentator on life. Along with being the linebackers coach, he is a great guy to just sit and talk with. Life experience??? This man has got it. I would have to start another blog just to list the stuff this guy has been a part of. Don't let his 5'8 frame throw you off. He has the heart of a 7 footer. A great and kind hearted man that has a little touch of the crazys...I mean that in a good way. His players give him a ton of respect and give him even more when he rolls up to practice on his Harley.

Gregg Baker is one of our newest additions to the staff. He jumped the "ditch" from ACA to Faulkner over Christmas break. Jim Nichols felt that he needed a bodyguard so he chose Gregg. A big nasty from Georgia Tech, Gregg will be whipping our running game into shape. Don't let his bald head scare you. There is a huge brain in that big knot, and nobody knows our offense like Gregg. Hey, if he can teach me our offense in a week, then our lineman actually have a great chance this season.

Chad Franklin, former Faulkner baseball player turned D-line coach. You throw in Assistant Strength Coach top it off with graduate classes and you have a busy man. Last season he drove the equipment truck to every away game...okay, maybe not drive, but he did sleep in the truck while Blake drove. He is never short on laughs and never short on hard work. As you can tell by his picture, he is never short on a photo op. This guy has a great heart and loves doing what he does. He has got no problem with throwing an elbow on you everytime you pass him in the office...sometimes it hurts...a little.

Here we go...

2008-03-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

People are always wanting updates on the progress of the Faulkner University football team. So, in an effort to keep people more up to speed I've created a Faulkner football blog. My plan is to update this often to keep all you eagle heads in the loop. I'm not a big writer, so please keep that in mind while reading my posts. Hopefully this will give everyone an inside look and a new and growing program. To be honest with you, it should be a pretty cool ride following the growth of a young program. Feel free to comment at anytime. So, it's time to strap it up and get to work.