Someone else is about to take over “The House That Howard Built.”
Carl Pelini was introduced today as the second head football coach in FAU history. Pelini, a former defensive coordinator at Nebraska, signed a five year, $2.5 million contract. Pelini has no experience as a head coach at the college level, but is excited for the opportunity.
“It’s an honor to be following a legend like Coach [Howard] Schnellenberger,” he said. “I wanted this university. I wanted this job. I saw a great deal of potential.”
As defensive coordinator at Nebraska, Pelini produced two first round NFL Draft picks and two conference defensive players of the year, including Detroit Lions DT Ndamukong Suh. Under Pelini, Nebraska had five first-team all-conference defensive backs in the last three seasons.
“We’re impressed by his accomplishments at Nebraska,” said President Mary Jane Saunders. “In one year he took the defense from 112th nationally to the 7th spot. There’s no doubt he’s adept at the art of turnaround.”
Pelini inherited a 1-11 team, but has a plan to turn the program around.
“There’s a lot of reasons you go 1-11,” he said. “I think you kind of have to delve into the culture of the program. I’ve only begun to do that.”
Reception to Pelini’s hire has been met with acclaim by the players.
“He seems like a guy that wants it,” said fullback Xavier Stinson. “He knows how to win.”
Pelini, a defensive minded coach, is tasked with improving the nation’s second worst offense statistically, as the Owls averaged just under 13 points per game this season. He plans to implement the spread offense, as opposed to the pro-style attack used previously by Schnellenberger.
“I think he’s going to bring some swagger back to the program,” said Student Body President Ayden Maher. “Sometimes you just need a fresh face. He’ll go out there and get the best recruits. He’s going to play 21st century football, whereas Howard was very traditional.”
Pelini will attempt to fix an FAU defense that allowed just under 35 points per game. His defensive players are up for the challenge.
“He has a lot of things he wants to get done down here,” said senior linebacker David Hinds ”It’s my last year, I want to be right there with him.”
Pelini did not come to FAU for the sun or fishing though. He came to work.
“I’m prepared when I leave this press conference, I’m going to my office and we’re going to hit the ground running,” said Pelini. “We’re gonna hit it hard.”
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