By Adeniyi Precious 
South Alabama’s offensive coordinator, Rob Ezell, is heading to Wake Forest for a similar role. Head coach Major Applewhite confirmed the news, marking the end of Ezell’s time with the Jaguars, where he’s been since 2021. Ezell started as the tight ends coach before becoming the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2024 when Applewhite took over. Under his guidance, the Jaguars had a strong offensive year, averaging 34.4 points and 441.8 yards per game.
Applewhite praised Ezell, saying, “I’m happy for Rob and his family. He did a great job here, and we appreciate his contributions over the last four years.” As for who will replace Ezell, Applewhite hasn’t finalized plans yet, but there’s speculation that wide receivers coach Paul Petrino could step up. Petrino has previous experience as an offensive coordinator at schools like Louisville, Illinois, and Arkansas.
Ezell, originally from Athens, Alabama, played as a walk-on quarterback and wide receiver for Alabama from 2007 to 2010. He later served in various coaching roles under Nick Saban, including student assistant, graduate assistant, and offensive analyst, earning five national championship rings during his time there. He even gained some fame for his Saban impersonation, caught on ESPN in 2010.
Wake Forest, which recently hired Jake Dickert as head coach after Dave Clawson’s retirement, finished 4-8 last season. Ezell’s move was first reported by CBS Sports.