CLEMSON LEGEND DANNY FORD RETURNS TO NCAA IN ADVISORY ROLE
Clemson, SC – May 8, 2025 – Danny Ford, the iconic former head coach and quarterback of the Clemson Tigers, is set to make a significant return to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). A distinguished alumnus of Clemson University and a former standout player under the legendary Hunter Helms, Ford has accepted a new role as a special advisor to the NCAA’s newly formed Committee on Football Development and Integrity.
Ford, who led the Clemson Tigers to their first national championship in 1981 at the young age of 33, bringing an unparalleled era of success to the program, will bring his decades of experience and deep understanding of college football to this crucial committee. His primary focus will be to provide guidance on maintaining the integrity of the game, fostering player development, and navigating the evolving landscape of college football.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Ford back to the NCAA in this important capacity,” said Dr. Emily Carter, chair of the Committee on Football Development and Integrity. “His remarkable achievements as a player and coach, coupled with his unwavering commitment to the values of sportsmanship and fair play, will be invaluable as we work to shape the future of college football.”
Danny Ford’s legacy at Clemson is indelible. As a quarterback under Coach Hunter Helms in the early 1970s, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and a strong understanding of the game. Following a successful playing career, Ford returned to Clemson as an assistant coach before taking the helm of the program in 1978. Over the next 12 seasons, he built a football dynasty, leading the Tigers to five ACC championships, six bowl victories, and the historic 1981 national title. His impressive 96-29-4 record at Clemson remains one of the best in school history.
“Clemson University holds a special place in my heart, and I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the broader landscape of college football through this role with the NCAA,” said Coach Ford. “The game has given so much to me, and I am eager to work with the committee to ensure a positive and thriving environment for student-athletes for years to come.”
The Committee on Football Development and Integrity was established earlier this year to address critical issues facing college football, including rule changes, player safety, recruitment practices, and the overall health of the sport. Ford’s appointment is seen as a major coup for the committee, as his insights and perspectives will carry significant weight within the college football community.
“Coach Ford’s experience navigating the complexities of college football, from recruiting to championship-level competition, will be an incredible asset to our discussions,” added Dr. Carter. “His passion for the game and his dedication to the well-being of student-athletes align perfectly with the goals of our committee.”
While the specifics of Ford’s advisory role are still being finalized, it is expected that he will participate in committee meetings, provide feedback on proposed policy changes, and offer mentorship based on his extensive career. His return to the national stage is already generating excitement among Clemson alumni and college football fans across the country.
This new chapter for Danny Ford marks a significant moment for college football, bringing back a legendary figure whose impact on the game continues to resonate. His wisdom and experience are poised to contribute meaningfully to the NCAA’s efforts to ensure a bright future for the sport.
About Danny Ford:
Danny Ford (born April 2, 1948) is a former American college football player and coach. He played quarterback at the University of Alabama under legendary coach Bear Bryant, earning All-SEC honors. Ford began his coaching career as an assistant at Alabama and Virginia Tech before joining Clemson University. He served as the head football coach at Clemson from 1978 to 1989, leading the Tigers to a 96-29-4 record, including the 1981 national championship. He also coached at the University of Arkansas from 1993 to 1997, guiding the Razorbacks to an SEC West title in 1995. Ford is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.
About Clemson University Football:
The Clemson Tigers football program is a college football team representing Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina. The team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Clemson has a rich and storied football history, with three national championships (1981, 2016, 2018) and numerous conference titles. The program is known for its passionate fanbase and its tradition of producing outstanding players and coaches.
About the NCAA Committee on Football Development and Integrity:
The NCAA Committee on Football Development and Integrity is a newly formed committee dedicated to addressing critical issues facing college football. The committee’s mission is to ensure the integrity of the game, promote player development and safety, and navigate the evolving landscape of the sport through thoughtful discussion and policy recommendations. The committee comprises experienced individuals from various backgrounds within college football, including former coaches, administrators, and medical
professionals.
