Top 5 Western Kentucky University Football Coaches

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Western Kentucky University (WKU) has a rich football tradition that dates back to 1908. Over the years, the Hilltoppers have had their fair share of successful coaches who have left an indelible mark on the program. In this article, we will take a look at the top 5 Western Kentucky University football coaches of all time.

WKU's football program has experienced its fair share of ups and downs throughout the years. However, the Hilltoppers have consistently produced talented teams that have competed at a high level. From conference championships to bowl game appearances, WKU has a proud football tradition that is steeped in history. At the heart of this tradition are the coaches who have led the team to success.

So, without further ado, let's take a look at the top 5 Western Kentucky University football coaches of all time.

5. Jack Harbaugh (1989-2002)

Jack Harbaugh is one of the most iconic coaches in WKU history. During his 14-year tenure, Harbaugh led the Hilltoppers to six conference championships and a pair of NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearances. Harbaugh's teams were known for their disciplined play and stout defense, which helped to establish WKU as a force to be reckoned with in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Harbaugh's impact on WKU's football program extends beyond his on-field success. He helped to establish the Hilltoppers as a viable option for top high school recruits and played a key role in the development of several NFL players, including quarterback Willie Taggart.

4. Dave Elson (2003-2009)

Dave Elson took the reins at WKU in 2003 and led the Hilltoppers to a pair of conference championships during his seven-year tenure. Elson's teams were known for their explosive offense, which helped to establish WKU as one of the top programs in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Under Elson's guidance, the Hilltoppers made their first bowl game appearance in 2002 and went on to win the Sun Belt Conference championship in 2007. Elson's impact on the program was significant, as he helped to establish WKU as a competitive force in the FBS.

3. Willie Taggart (2010-2012)

Willie Taggart is one of the most successful coaches in WKU history. During his three-year tenure, Taggart led the Hilltoppers to a pair of bowl game appearances and a Sun Belt Conference championship in 2012.

Taggart's teams were known for their high-powered offense, which helped to establish WKU as one of the top programs in the FBS. Under Taggart's guidance, the Hilltoppers set numerous school records for points scored and total offense.

2. Jeff Brohm (2014-2016)

Jeff Brohm is one of the most successful coaches in WKU history. During his three-year tenure, Brohm led the Hilltoppers to a pair of conference championships and a pair of bowl game appearances.

Brohm's teams were known for their explosive offense, which helped to establish WKU as one of the top programs in the FBS. Under Brohm's guidance, the Hilltoppers set numerous school records for points scored and total offense.

1. Bobby Petrino (2013)

Bobby Petrino is one of the most successful coaches in WKU history. During his one-year tenure, Petrino led the Hilltoppers to a 8-4 record and a bowl game appearance.

Petrino's teams were known for their high-powered offense, which helped to establish WKU as one of the top programs in the FBS. Under Petrino's guidance, the Hilltoppers set numerous school records for points scored and total offense.

We hope you've enjoyed our look at the top 5 Western Kentucky University football coaches of all time. From Jack Harbaugh to Bobby Petrino, these coaches have left an indelible mark on the program and helped to establish the Hilltoppers as a competitive force in the FBS. Whether you're a die-hard WKU fan or just a college football enthusiast, we encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.

Gallery of WKU Football Coaches