Head Coach Moves Teams, Takes Staff to New Program

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Harrison Jumps to Northwood, Shaking Up Big Ten Coaching Landscape**

**NORTHWOOD, OH – December 5, 2023** – In a move that sent shockwaves through the college football world, Coach Mark Harrison officially made the jump from the University of Central State Wildcats to the Northwood University Bulldogs this past Tuesday, December 5, 2023. This massive shift, formally announced by Northwood’s Athletic Director Sarah Jones during a press conference at the Schmidt Athletic Center in Northwood, Ohio, at 2 PM local time, immediately reshaped both programs’ futures and the broader Big Ten Conference.

Harrison has reportedly signed a hefty eight-year, $75 million contract, positioning him squarely at the helm of Northwood’s football program. The immediate fallout saw his long-time offensive coordinator, David Miller, and defensive coordinator, Kevin Reed, confirming their commitment to follow him to Northwood within hours of the announcement. This continuity among the core coaching staff is a crucial piece for the Bulldogs as they head into the pivotal December early signing period.

“Today marks a new era for Northwood University football,” AD Sarah Jones declared, her voice filled with optimism. “Coach Harrison brings a championship pedigree, an unwavering commitment to player development, and a proven track record of success. We are confident he is the leader to elevate our program to national prominence.”

Harrison, 48, built a formidable reputation at Central State over the past six seasons, transforming the Wildcats into a perennial contender. Known for his disciplined approach, innovative offensive schemes, and fierce defensive identity, he led Central State to three conference championships and two New Year’s Six bowl appearances. His departure leaves a significant void for the Wildcats, who now face the daunting task of finding a successor before spring practice kicks off in March.

“This was not an easy decision,” Coach Harrison stated, addressing the media for the first time as a Bulldog. “Central State will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m immensely proud of what we built there. However, the vision and commitment from President Evans and AD Jones at Northwood presented an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up. We are here to win championships and build a program that makes this community proud.”

This move is poised to have serious ripple effects, particularly in recruiting. Coach Harrison had cultivated a strong pipeline into key talent-rich states like Ohio and Pennsylvania for Central State. Now, those same prospects will undoubtedly be receiving a fresh look from his new staff at Northwood. The Bulldogs, who finished a disappointing 6-6 last season and missed a bowl bid for the first time in five years, are looking for a significant jolt, and Harrison’s arrival is a clear statement of intent.

“The recruiting landscape has just been fundamentally altered,” noted college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit on ESPN. “Harrison is a master recruiter, and he’s now armed with the resources and prestige of a Big Ten institution. Expect immediate battles with his former program for top-tier talent, and don’t be surprised if Northwood makes a quick ascent under his leadership.”

Central State University quickly released a statement acknowledging Harrison’s departure and announcing a national search for its next head coach. “We wish Coach Harrison and his family the very best,” the statement read. “Our focus now turns to identifying a leader who can continue the legacy of excellence and build upon the strong foundation he helped establish.”

The full impact of Harrison’s defection will unfold in the coming weeks and months, starting with the early signing period this December, where coaches scramble to finalize their recruiting classes. For Northwood, the future appears bright with a new coach aiming to deliver the program’s first Big Ten title. For Central State, a period of uncertainty and transition has just begun.

For more details on Coach Harrison’s introductory press conference, visit [www.northwoodbulldogs.com/news](http://www.northwoodbulldogs.com/news).

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