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Jim Donnan
By Jordan Cox
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Donnan boasts more than 30 years coaching experience as an assistant and head coach.
He began his coaching career at North Carolina State as an assistant from 1969-1971, just four seasons after his playing days were done for the Wolfpack. From N.C. State, Donnan made stops at Florida State, North Carolina, Kansas State and Missouri.
In 1985, Donnan joined the staff of Barry Switzer at Oklahoma. During his five seasons in Norman, Donnan helped coach the Sooner wishbone offense to three consecutive 11-1 seasons and a national championship. After his time at Oklahoma, Donnan was hired to be the head coach at Marshall. During his tenure with the Thundering Herd, Donnan compiled a 64-21 record, highlighted by five straight 11-plus win seasons and the 1992 Division 1-AA national championship. Donnan was named Division 1-AA Coach of the Year twice.
In 1996, he was hired by the University of Georgia as head coach. During his time in Athens, Donnan amassed a 40-19 record. He was the first coach in the history of the program to lead the Bulldogs to four consecutive bowl games.
Donnan was fired after the 2000 season. In 2009, Donnan was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame.
Coaching History | Team | Years |
---|---|---|
Head Coach | Georgia Bulldogs | 1996-2000 |
Head Coach | Marshall Thundering Herd | 1990-1995 |
Offensive Coordinator | Oklahoma Sooners | 1985-1989 |
Assistant Coach | Missouri Tigers | 1981-1984 |
Assistant Coach | Kansas State Wildcats | 1978-1980 |
Assistant Coach | North Carolina Tar Heels | 1974-1977 |
Assistant Coach | Florida State Seminoles | 1972-73 |
Assistant Coach | North Carolina State Wolfpack | 1969-1971 |
After living in Birmingham, Ala., Jordan left the ground zero of SEC Nation to head south to Florida to tell the unique stories of the renowned tradition of SEC football. In his free time, his mission is to find the best locales around.