Eric Schmidt Named Head Coach of North Dakota Football
North Dakota Welcomes Back Eric Schmidt as Head Football Coach
GRAND FORKS, N.D. – the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks have a new leader on the gridiron. Director of Athletics Bill Chaves announced Sunday evening that Eric Schmidt has been named the 28th head coach of the North Dakota football program, pending a background check.
“I am excited to welcome back Coach Schmidt to North Dakota as our newest football coach,” Chaves said. “Eric brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success, and a deep commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field. I am confident that under his leadership, our football program will continue to build on the foundation that has been laid and compete for championships on both the conference and national stage.”
Schmidt returns to his alma mater after a accomplished stint as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at San Diego State University. In his lone season with the Aztecs, Schmidt mentored four players to All-Mountain west honors, including sophomore Trey White, who earned a first-team selection after finishing near the top of the FBS in sacks per game and tackles per game.Prior to SDSU, Schmidt spent two seasons at the University of Washington, where he served as the special teams coordinator and coach of the EDGE position on defense. During his time with the Huskies, Schmidt helped the program reach new heights, culminating in a College Football Playoff title game appearance in 2023.
Schmidt’s impact was immediate at Washington.In his first year, he oversaw a defensive unit that propelled the huskies to an 11-2 overall record.The Huskies’ rushing defense, which had ranked 11th in the Pac-12 and 108th in the FBS just a year earlier, soared to third in the conference and 25th in the nation in 2022. Two of Schmidt’s edge rushers also helped UW finish 20th in the FBS in sacks and were named to the All-Pac-12 First Team.
Schmidt’s journey to the FBS began in 2020 with a two-year stint at Fresno State, where he served as defensive line coach and special teams coordinator. The Bulldogs consistently ranked among the top 25 nationally in multiple defensive categories, including rushing defense, passing defense, third-down defense, yards per play, tackles for loss, takeaways, and scoring defense.
This marks Schmidt’s third stint coaching at North Dakota. He previously served as the Fighting Hawks’ defensive coordinator from 2014-19, guiding the team to two FCS playoff appearances, including the program’s first in 2016. Under Schmidt’s leadership, the Hawks consistently ranked among the nation’s best defenses, twice finishing in the top 10 for rush defense.
Schmidt’s coaching prowess at UND is evident in the 17 all-conference players and four All-americans he coached, along with two conference players of the year.
Before his return to UND, Schmidt spent six seasons at Southern Illinois (2008-13), coaching multiple defensive positions before serving as the special teams coordinator for his final two years.
Schmidt’s coaching career began at his alma mater, North Dakota, where he served as linebackers coach from 2006-07. He gained valuable experience as a head coach at crookston (Minn.) high School from 2002-2005.A Mandan, N.D., native, Schmidt was a standout linebacker for the Fighting Hawks, captaining the team to the NCAA Division II national title in 2001. He played for UND from 1998 to 2001, earning two-time All-North Central Conference honors and All-America recognition as a senior.
schmidt received his bachelor’s degree in secondary education from UND.
Fighting Hawks Soar High: Eric Schmidt Named Head football Coach
Grand Forks, ND – The University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks have a new leader at the helm. Eric Schmidt, a seasoned coach with deep roots in the program, has been named the new head football coach, the university announced today.
schmidt, a North Dakota alumnus, brings over two decades of coaching experience to the position, including a successful stint as the Fighting Hawks’ defensive coordinator from 2014 to 2017.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to be named the head coach of the Fighting Hawks,” Schmidt said. “This program means so much to me, and I am excited to lead these young men as we strive for excellence on and off the field.”
Schmidt’s impressive resume includes stops at prominent programs like Washington and San Diego State, where he honed his skills as a defensive coordinator and special teams expert. His defensive prowess is evident in his track record of developing talented players and building formidable units.
“Eric’s passion for north Dakota football is undeniable,” said Athletic Director bill Chaves. “His experience, leadership, and commitment to our student-athletes make him the ideal choice to lead our program into the future.”
Schmidt’s appointment marks a homecoming for the Mandan, North Dakota native. He played linebacker for the Fighting Hawks from 1998 to 2001, showcasing his dedication to the program from an early age.Schmidt and his wife, Tiffany, have three children: Kennedy, Harrison, and Truman. The family is eager to return to Grand Forks and become active members of the community.
Schmidt will be formally introduced to the media on Wednesday, December 11th at hyslop at Memorial Village.
Schmidt Returns too ‘Hawks Nest: An Interview with the new Godfather of UND football
Grand Forks, ND – the University of north Dakota Fighting Hawks officially welcomed back one of their own, Eric Schmidt, as the 28th head coach of the program. After navigating a prolific collegiate coaching journey, Schmidt returns to his alma mater with a passion for rebuilding the “Hawks” legacy and forging a new era of success.
To understand what this homecoming means for both schmidt and the program, NewsDirect3.com sat down with renowned college football analyst [Insert Analyst Name], who has followed Schmidt’s career closely.
NewsDirect3.com: eric Schmidt’s name has been generating buzz ever as his departure from San Diego State. What do you make of his return to UND?
Analyst: This is a fantastic move for both Schmidt and UND. it’s clear he’s built a strong foundation of experience and success at top programs like Washington and SDSU. He’s proven he can develop talent, build strong defenses, and compete at the highest level.
NewsDirect3.com: Schmidt’s resume boasts remarkable accomplishments. What specific qualities make him the right fit for North Dakota?
Analyst: Beyond his tactical prowess and recruiting skills,Schmidt brings a deep understanding of the UND culture. He’s a product of the program, and that familiarity will be invaluable in building a cohesive team and connecting with the community.He understands the values and aspirations of the Fighting Hawks and is well-equipped to lead them forward.
NewsDirect3.com: his tenure at Washington culminated in a CFP title game appearance. How will that experience translate to UND’s current program?
Analyst: Schmidt learned from some of the best minds in college football at Washington. That experience will be invaluable in implementing a winning culture at UND. It’s not just about schemes and plays; it’s about instilling a belief in achieving greatness, even in a program that may be considered an underdog.
NewsDirect3.com: Director of Athletics Bill Chaves emphasized Schmidt’s commitment to student-athlete advancement. How important is this aspect for the program?
Analyst: Schmidt’s focus on developing players both on and off the field is crucial. It speaks to his integrity and commitment to building a enduring program that goes beyond wins and losses. This approach will attract talented recruits who are looking for a well-rounded collegiate experience.
NewsDirect3.com: What are your expectations for Schmidt’s first season at the helm?
Analyst: It will be a rebuilding year, but I expect Schmidt to lay a strong foundation for future success. Look for him to implement his system, recruit talented players, and ultimately build a program that can compete for conference championships and make national noise.
Schmidt’s return to UND is a homecoming loaded with promise. With his experience, passion, and commitment to excellence, the “Hawks” program is poised for a luminous future under his leadership.