Dave Clawson to Leave Wake Forest Coaching Role

Dave Clawson has announced he is stepping down as the head football coach of Wake Forest University after an 11-year tenure marked by significant successes, including seven consecutive bowl appearances and leading the team to its first top-10 national rankings. Clawson, who cited the evolving landscape of college football involving NIL regulations and the transfer portal as factors, will transition to an advisory role within the athletic department. His resignation follows back-to-back 4-8 seasons, the worst since his initial years with the program. Despite recent struggles, Clawson is praised for his ability to elevate Wake Forest football, achieving a record of 67-69 and being recognized as the only coach to secure at least 10-win seasons at four different Division I schools. The university now faces the challenge of finding a replacement, potentially looking outside the current staff as they adjust to the changing dynamics of college football. Clawson's departure is compared to similar decisions by other prominent coaches who have stepped away due to the sport's shifting environment.