Wake Forest football has seen a significant change as head coach Dave Clawson has resigned. This decision comes after a remarkable tenure that has left an indelible mark on the program. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

A Coach's Legacy at Wake Forest

Clawson's Impact on Wake Forest Football

Dave Clawson's 11-year stint as the head coach at Wake Forest has been nothing short of extraordinary. After five consecutive losing seasons, he took over in 2014 and led the program to its most successful era. His leadership transformed the Demon Deacons from a struggling team to one that consistently achieved winning seasons. In fact, in the seven years from 2016 to 2022, Wake Forest had six winning seasons. This run included seven straight bowl appearances and a remarkable No. 10 ranking in both the 2021 and 2022 seasons. It's a feat that the program had never accomplished before and hadn't been ranked higher than 14th since joining the ACC in 1953. His ability to turn the team around and achieve such heights is a testament to his coaching prowess.

Clawson's Achievements and Awards

Clawson's achievements are widely recognized. In 2021, he was named ACC Coach of the Year after an 11-3 season that saw the team reach the ACC championship game and secure a win over Rutgers in the Gator Bowl. This was a significant milestone for the program and a reflection of Clawson's ability to lead his team to victory. His coaching style and strategies have inspired the players and staff, and his impact on the program is undeniable.

Challenges Faced and the Future

Despite his success, Clawson faced challenges in his later years at Wake Forest. The program struggled to retain talent in part due to reported NIL limitations, which placed it at a financial disadvantage among its peers. In the last two seasons, Wake Forest finished 4-8 each year. However, Clawson's decision to step down does not mean the end of the program's success. The school will now need to address its plans to replace him and continue building on the foundation he has laid. It will be a challenging task, but with the right leadership and resources, Wake Forest can continue to thrive in the future.In conclusion, Dave Clawson's resignation as the head coach at Wake Forest is a significant event for the program. His impact on the team and the university will be felt for years to come. As Wake Forest looks to the future, it will be important to build on his legacy and continue to strive for excellence on the football field.