Bemidji State defensive coordinator Joe Ford is expected to take the same job at Angelo State, sources told FootballScoop on Thursday.
Ford was named the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference's assistant coach of the year for the 2024 season, a year in which the Beavers led the NSIC and finished seventh nationally at 240.8 yards per game allowed. BSU was also in the top 25 in Division II in rushing defense, passing efficiency, sacks, and scoring.
"Joe has done an outstanding job developing one of the best defensive units not only in the NSIC but D2 football overall," said Bemidji State head coach Brent Bolte said at the time. "Since his arrival at BSU in 2023 he has brought his own style of play and blended extremely well with the previous scheme, style of play, and Gang Green mentality. Couldn't be prouder of his leadership and this units overall accomplishments."
The Brandon, S.D., native has spent the entirety of his career until now in the Upper Midwest. Before Bemidji State, Ford coordinated the defense at Sioux Falls (D-II - SD), with previous stops at South Dakota, Southwest Minnesota State, and St. Cloud State.
He joins an Angelo State team that surrendered 24 points, 131.8 rushing yards, and 234.2 passing yards per game en route to a 6-5 mark last season. Ford replaces Gary Salgado, who took the defensive line job at Stephen F. Austin (FCS - TX) in January. Head coach Jeff Grisch will break in new coordinators on both sides of the ball this fall after promoting wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator Jason Johnson to offensive coordinator in January.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.