Jeff Behrman to Depart JCU, Search for Next Head Football Coach to Begin Immediately

| By: John Carrol Sports Information

Behrman will become the head coach at Bucknell; Dean Paul will serve as interim head coach

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS – Jeff Behrman '95 is set to move onward and upward following a historic season.

After guiding John Carroll Football to one of its best seasons in program history, Behrman is headed to the Division I level. Behrman is the next head football coach at Bucknell University.

"Jeff has done an exceptional job of re-establishing a winning culture and raising expectations, on and off the field," said Brian Polian '97, Vice President for Athletics and National Engagement. "During his tenure, our team has put an elite product on the field, highlighted by this season's NCAC championship, victory over Mount Union, and playoff run to the NCAA semifinals. In the classroom and in the community, Coach Behrman held our student-athletes to a high standard, and they always rose to the challenge. 

"I want to thank Jeff for his effort and passion over the last three years. I wish Jeff, Karen, and Brock all the best in the future."

During his three seasons at JCU, Behrman compiled a 29-7 record. Behrman guided the Blue Streaks to back-to-back NCAA Playoff appearances. The 1995 JCU graduate has a 71-27 career record, serving as head coach at Union College before returning to his alma mater.  

This past season, Behrman steered the Blue Streaks to a historic campaign. JCU won the North Coast Athletic Conference in its first season as a member. In the playoffs, JCU ousted #20 Randolph-Macon, #2 Mount Union, and #17 Berry in the playoffs before losing to #1 North Central. 

JCU's NCAA Semifinal trip marked the third appearance in the round of four in program history.

The search for the 21st head coach in program history will begin immediately. In the meantime, Dean Paul will serve as interim head coach. Paul just finished his second season at JCU, his first as defensive coordinator. Paul previously served as the longtime head coach at Ohio Northern. 

"Like our university, our program has built great momentum over a short period of time. We will find the right leader to continue that trajectory," said Polian. "The opportunity to lead the Blue Streak football program is a special one. We are proud of our Jesuit mission and identity, standard of excellence, and dedication to our student-athletes. Our next leader will align those priorities and continue on our proud tradition."

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