We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Blake Wilson to Special Teams Coordinator for the Georgia Southern football team. With three successful seasons under his belt, Wilson is poised to lead the Eagles' special teams to new heights. Head Coach Clay Helton expressed confidence in Wilson's ability to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessor, Turner West.

Empowering the Future: A New Era of Special Teams Excellence

Background and Experience

Blake Wilson brings a wealth of experience to his new role as Special Teams Coordinator at Georgia Southern University. Over the past three years, he has been instrumental in shaping the Eagles' special teams performance, initially serving as a senior analyst. His expertise spans all aspects of game planning, from kickoffs to punt returns. Prior to joining Georgia Southern, Wilson held coaching positions at Lake Erie College, Montana State University Northern, and the University of San Diego. These diverse experiences have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both offensive and defensive strategies.Wilson's journey into coaching began during his playing days as a middle linebacker at Southwestern Junior College and later at Charleston Southern, where he earned a degree in communication. This background not only informs his tactical decisions but also enhances his ability to connect with players on a personal level. His transition from player to coach has been seamless, marked by a deep commitment to developing young talent and fostering a winning culture.

Building on Success

The impact of Wilson's work over the past three seasons is evident in the outstanding performances of Georgia Southern's special teams unit. In 2024, punter Alex Smith ranked 17th in the FBS for net punting and received second-team all-conference honors. Gavin Stewart's accuracy in kicking was among the best in the nation, with an impressive 83% success rate. Similarly, Michael Lantz set a school record with 23 made field goals in 2023, leading the Sun Belt Conference in scoring with 114 points. True freshman DeAndre Buchannon made headlines with a 100-yard kickoff return against App State, earning Freshman All-America honors.These achievements underscore the effectiveness of Wilson's approach to coaching and highlight the potential for continued success under his leadership. The synergy between Wilson and Assistant Special Teams/Specialists Coach Anthony Beck II promises to elevate the team's performance even further. Together, they will focus on refining techniques, enhancing teamwork, and preparing players to excel in high-pressure situations.

Player Development and Mentorship

One of Wilson's key strengths lies in his ability to mentor and develop players. His hands-on involvement in opponent analysis and personnel breakdowns has been crucial in identifying areas for improvement and capitalizing on opponents' weaknesses. Players like NaJee Thompson, who signed with the Minnesota Vikings, and Anthony Beck II, who had a mini-camp tryout with the same team, are testaments to the quality of coaching at Georgia Southern.Wilson's emphasis on building trust and rapport with his players has created a supportive environment that encourages growth and resilience. He believes in empowering athletes to take ownership of their development, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability. This approach not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the overall cohesion of the team. By focusing on holistic development, Wilson aims to cultivate well-rounded athletes who are prepared to succeed both on and off the field.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Wilson envisions a special teams unit that consistently ranks among the best in college football. He plans to leverage data-driven insights and innovative training methods to push the boundaries of what is possible. Collaboration with other coaches and staff members will be central to this vision, ensuring that every aspect of the program aligns with the team's goals.Wilson's passion for the game and dedication to excellence make him an ideal fit for this role. Under his leadership, the Georgia Southern special teams unit is poised to achieve remarkable milestones. As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, fans can look forward to witnessing the transformation of this critical component of the team's strategy. The future looks bright, and with Blake Wilson at the helm, the possibilities are endless.