South Alabama Football: 3 Things Learned From Major Applewhite's Introduction

On Friday, South Alabama introduced former offensive coordinator Major Applewhite as the football program's fourth head coach. Applewhite replaces Kane Wommack, who recently resigned to accept a position as Alabama's defensive coordinator under Kalen DeBoer. 

"I am so honored for this opportunity," Applewhite said in front of local media and program supporters. "The vision for this program is to win championships. Let it not be mistaken. The way we're going to do that is with great men, and great men that have the same morals and the same values and principals that we want day in and day out that align with our leadership."

Over the course of about 20 minutes, Applewhite discussed his intentions for picking up where Wommack left off and continuing to build the Jaguar program. Here's what stood out the most.

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Changes Since His Last Head Coaching Gig

South Alabama will be Applewhite's second job as an FBS head coach. He compiled a 15-11 overall record at Houston from 2017-18. 

Parenthood has changed his perspective since his time as the Houston head coach, with Applewhite noting that his experiences in that phase of life has made him more patient, and less impulsive in his decision making.

Applewhite also noted that his time as an analyst for Nick Saban's staff in-between UH and USA gave him a new appreciation for how counseling with other coaches can be beneficial - even for a coach as accomplished as Saban.

"I've had an opportunity to be a head coach. I've had an opportunity to work at a lot of different universities. Players and coaches can win ball games...but you will not win championships unless you have championship alignment from the top to the bottom."

Rob Ezell is USA's New OC

As he moves into the new role, Applewhite will no longer be the one calling plays for the Jaguars, at least to start, in 2024.

Applewhite noted that he still plans to have input on the offense, as well as the other phases of the game. The position of offensive coordinator will be filled by Rob Ezell, elevated from tight ends coach. Ezell also has experience as an assistant at Colorado State and Alabama (his alma mater).

"The trust level that I have with Rob Ezell is extremely high," Applewhite said. "Will I have suggestions and things like that? Of course...But I have all the confidence in the world in our offensive staff."

Recruiting Strategy

Applewhite was sure to note his belief in South Alabama as a total package, as far as attracting top high school talent. He cited job opportunities in the area, ways players can find ways to develop careers in Mobile and the surrounding area, as well as how the program can be an easy transition for players living on their own for the first time. 

"Let's talk about us when we're on the road," Applewhite said of speaking to upcoming recruiting trips. "Let's talk about the things that we have, because the things that we have are pretty darn good. Our stadium, our facilities, our university, our leadership. The opportunities that you have here on the Gulf Coast, the opportunities to grow...That's the big thing that attracted me to want to stay here and get this job."