- Program
- Northwestern
- Level
- FBS
- In Role Since
- 2023
- Conference
- Big Ten
- Education
- Winona State University, Bachelor’s in Social Science Education (2008)
Profile
David Braun is the 31st head football coach at Northwestern University, appointed in November 2023 after serving as interim head coach starting that summer. A consensus 2023 Big Ten Coach of the Year, Braun led Northwestern to a historic start, including multiple bowl bids and wins in his first three seasons, ranking second in school history for wins by a head coach in that span. With a defensive background, he elevated Northwestern’s defense to one of the conference’s best while continuing the program’s competitive presence in the Big Ten.
Coaching Approach
Braun’s philosophy centers on defensive excellence and balanced offense, demonstrated by nationally ranked defenses during his tenure. His teams practice disciplined ball control on offense and aggressive, opportunistic defense, emphasizing turnover creation and limiting opponent scoring, while building resilience and competitive consistency.
Career Highlights
- Named Northwestern's head coach in November 2023 after serving as interim head coach.
- Consensus 2023 Big Ten Coach of the Year and recipient of the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Newcomer Coach of the Year Award.
- Led Northwestern to six bowl wins in three seasons, including historic postseason margins.
Sources
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