In a moment that will be felt far beyond Faurot Field, Missouri Tigers Head Coach Eliah Drinkwitz has been named the recipient of college football’s most coveted coaching award — a testament to resilience, belief, and a relentless drive to transform a program that was once regarded as an afterthought into a national powerhouse.
Drinkwitz made it plain from the start that he was not only here to participate, but also to leave a legacy. That vision has made its most critical step forward. With this honor, he joins a select group of outstanding coaches who have not only excelled on the field but also transformed the culture and direction of their teams.
The Tigers had a truly remarkable season in 2024. Under Drinkwitz’s leadership, Missouri turned heads week after week with a perfect blend of toughness, precision, and high-octane football. Missouri was no longer the underdog lying in the shadows of SEC powerhouses; instead, it became the team no one wanted to face, characterized by crisp execution, disciplined defense, and a potent attack created in the image of its head coach.
“This isn’t about me,” Drinkwitz acknowledged modestly during the prize ceremony. “It’s about the young guys who committed to something bigger than themselves, the coaches who work diligently behind the scenes, and the supporters who have remained loyal through all of the ups and downs. Missouri believed. “And that belief made us dangerous.”
Indeed, what makes this achievement so extraordinary is the path that led to it. When Drinkwitz took over, Missouri was rebuilding, a squad in transition. But, rather than seeking fast answers, he engaged in culture. He emphasized player development, accountability, and recruiting players who not only fit the system but also shared the program’s core values.
What are the results? Transformative. The Tigers earned big victories over ranked opponents, returned to national polls with authority, and instilled a renewed feeling of pride in the university and the state of Missouri. Players broke records. Fans crowded stadiums. And, for the first time in years, the Tigers were not only part of the conversation, but also led it.
Behind all of the statistics, however, is a coach who has never allowed doubt to define his objective. Drinkwitz’s passion is contagious. His enthusiasm on the sidelines, candor with the media, and genuine concern for his players have earned him admiration around the country. And now, with the highest accolade in college football coaching bestowed upon him, he serves as a symbol of what faith and perseverance can achieve.
Looking ahead, the Missouri Tigers’ future is better than ever. With Drinkwitz at the helm, the program has arrived, rather than growing. But, in his own words, “This is just the beginning.”
Eliah Drinkwitz has not only recreated Missouri’s football story, but also redefined what is possible in college football.
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