Drake Bulldogs Welcome Championship Coach Matt Walker: A Latest Era Begins
Des Moines, Iowa – Drake University has tapped Matt Walker, fresh off a Division III national championship victory with UW-River Falls, as its new head football coach. The announcement, made February 22nd by Athletics Director Brian Hardin, signals a significant shift for the Bulldogs program.
From Division III Dominance to FCS Opportunity
Walker’s arrival marks a jump to the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) level after a highly successful 15-year tenure at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He led the Falcons to a program-record 14 wins in 2025, securing their first national playoff berth since 1996 and culminating in the NCAA Division III National Championship. This success wasn’t just a flash in the pan; UW-River Falls too clinched their first outright Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) championship since 1985.
His coaching accolades include being named the D3football.com Coach of the Year and the WIAC Coach of the Year (for the second time) following the championship season. Prior awards include the 2021 WIAC Coach of the Year and the Hansen Rating National Coach of the Year.
A Proven Track Record of Offensive Prowess
Walker isn’t just a winner; he’s an architect of explosive offenses. Since 2021, he’s amassed a 44-13 overall record, including back-to-back Isthmus Bowl titles. His teams consistently led the WIAC in total and scoring offense, ranking among the top four in Division III in total offense three times since 2021. Over the last five seasons, Walker’s offenses averaged an impressive 42.4 points per game.
Developing Talent: Beyond the Scoreboard
Walker’s commitment extends beyond wins and statistics. He’s demonstrably focused on player development, having coached over 140 All-WIAC players, 13 All-Region honorees, six All-Americans, and the 2025 Gagliardi Trophy winner, Kaleb Blaha – Division III’s most outstanding player. Five Falcons also earned the WIAC’s Max Sparger Scholar-Athlete Award under his guidance, highlighting his emphasis on academic achievement.
Industry Praise for the New Bulldogs Leader
The announcement has been met with widespread approval from within the football community. Brad Stevens, President of Basketball Operations for the Boston Celtics, lauded Walker’s ability to create a positive team culture, emphasizing the “genuine love” within the River Falls program. Joe Schoen, General Manager of the New York Giants, highlighted Walker’s football IQ and leadership qualities, stating any program would be fortunate to have him. Oregon State University head football coach JaMarcus Shephard emphasized Walker’s dedication to building lasting relationships with his players.
Prior Coaching Experience and Educational Background
Before his success at UW-River Falls, Walker gained experience at the Pioneer Football League level as an offensive assistant at Butler University in 2010, coaching tight ends. He also served as head coach at DePauw University from 2006-2009, achieving a 22-8 record. Walker also has a background in baseball, having served as DePauw’s head baseball coach for nine seasons, earning over 250 wins.
Walker holds a bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from DePauw (1999) and a master’s in physical education from Indiana State (2001).
Looking Ahead: Walker’s Vision for Drake
Walker expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Drake family, acknowledging the challenges of a coaching transition for the players. He stated his commitment to building upon Drake’s football tradition and fostering a winning culture. He also expressed gratitude to the River Falls community and confidence in the continued success of the Falcons under Jake Wissing, who will take over as head coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Matt Walker coming from?
A: Matt Walker was previously the head football coach at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
Q: What did Matt Walker achieve at UW-River Falls?
A: He led the Falcons to their first NCAA Division III National Championship in 2025 and a WIAC championship.
Q: When will Matt Walker be officially introduced?
A: Drake will host an introductory press conference on Sunday, March 1, with Walker’s availability starting at 12:30 pm.
Q: What are some of the accolades Matt Walker has received?
A: He has been named D3football.com Coach of the Year, WIAC Coach of the Year twice, and Hansen Rating National Coach of the Year.
Did you know? Matt Walker coached a player, Kaleb Blaha, who won the Gagliardi Trophy, the most prestigious award in Division III football.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Drake Bulldogs football program and Coach Walker’s preparations for the upcoming season. Explore more Drake Athletics news here.
