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Accidental HC Leads Wildcats to Historic Turnaround
26 Jul
Summary
- David Braun, an assistant for 15 years, became Northwestern's head coach.
- He led the Wildcats to a 7-5 record, their most wins since 1903.
- Braun was named 2023 Big Ten Coach of the Year for the program's turnaround.
David Braun, who spent 15 years as an assistant coach, was appointed Northwestern's defensive coordinator in early 2023. However, a hazing scandal led to the departure of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, unexpectedly placing Braun at the helm. He successfully steered the Wildcats to a 7-5 record during the 2023 regular season.
This win total represents the highest for a first-year Northwestern football coach since 1903. The team also qualified for a bowl game for the first time since 2020. For his efforts in transforming the program, Braun was honored as the 2023 Big Ten Coach of the Year.
Praising Braun's leadership, Northwestern wide receiver AJ Henning noted his ability to instill belief and manage pressure. Braun's previous coaching roles include positions at Winona State, Culver-Stockton College, UC Davis, Northern Iowa, and North Dakota State.
