Former Alabama, Georgia assistant Scott Cochran named head coach at West Alabama

Former Alabama and Georgia assistant Scott Cochran has been named the new head football coach at the University of West Alabama, the program announced on Monday afternoon.

Cochran was a long-time strength and conditioning coordinator under Nick Saban.

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the University of West Alabama football program as head coach,” Cochran said in a press release. “UWA has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, and I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated staff, and passionate community to continue that legacy. Together, we will strive for greatness and make our supporters proud.”

Scott Cochran spent time at both LSU and Alabama before eventually moving to Georgia to join Kirby Smart‘s staff. While with Smart, Cochran branched out and became a position coach, working with the special teams unit.

The resume for Scott Cochran in terms of former players coached is lengthy.

But there’s also a considerable personal story behind Cochran’s journey through the college football coaching ranks. The standout assistant battled addiction in the past, something he was up front about and addressed in his statement at West Alabama.

“My own personal struggles have given me a unique perspective that allows me to expertly develop players and prepare them to go to the next level,” Scott Cochran said. “I get to know players better than they know themselves, and I feel that I have something to give back through head coaching. This is more than just a job for me; it’s a calling to help young men grow both on and off the field.”

Scott Cochran takes over the head coaching position after previous coach Brett Gilliland vacated the post to take the program’s athletics director job.

Gilliland also chimed in on Cochran’s hire.

“Scott Cochran’s passion for the game, along with his ability to connect with players and his commitment to developing student-athletes as individuals, all align with the values of our program,” Gilliland said. “We are confident that his guidance will allow UWA Football to continue to foster a winning culture both on and off the field. We are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our team and our community.”