MEAC Football: Dawson Odums leaves Southern for Norfolk State

The Jaguars were 4-1 this spring. 

Odums had pulled the Jaguars from mediocrity to an annual contender in the SWAC. Southern is a school with a proud and prominent football tradition. Some of the legendary Jaguars include Mel Blount, Aeneas Williams ad Harold Carmichael.

The Jaguars hired Odums in 2011 as defensive coordinator. In 2012 Odums took over as interim head coach for Stump Mitchell, who was 6-18 in three seasons with the Jags. After a 4-5 season as interim, Odums did not have a losing season with Southern and was 53-17 in SWAC play.

So, why leave? 

One thing is for sure; it is not because of recruiting. Louisiana is one of the recruiting hotbeds at all levels of college football. There are more than enough recruits for everyone. Looking at Southern’s roster, it is clear that Odums understands this.

Though Southern has recruited nationally, the overwhelming majority of Southern’s roster is from Louisiana.

According to fooballscoop.com, Odums receives $225,000 annually from Norfolk State. Though Southern extended Odums’ contract (along with several of his assistants), he did not receive a raise from the university. Odums’ exit from Southern is more than about money, however.

Adam Winkler of WTKR asked Odums about leaving Southern.

"“[You have an] AD (Athletics Director, Melody Webb) that’s just coming in and trying to solidify her legacy. It’s important to Ms. Webb. It’s important to [NSU President] Dr. Adams-Gaston. It’s important to be at a place where they were willing to work with you, and they’re willing to want you and welcome you into their family. Norfolk state happened at the right time.”"