Prepare to delve into the dynamic world of Northwood University’s football program, where athleticism, strategy, and unwavering determination collide. Our comprehensive roster provides an exclusive glimpse into the lives and accomplishments of the talented individuals who represent the Timberwolves on the gridiron.
From seasoned veterans to rising stars, each player brings a unique skill set and unwavering passion to the field. Join us as we explore their journeys, celebrate their achievements, and uncover the stories behind the names that make up the Northwood University football roster.
Player Profiles
The Northwood University football roster is composed of a talented group of student-athletes from across the country. These players are dedicated to achieving success both on and off the field, and they are committed to representing Northwood University with pride.
The following table provides a detailed overview of the Northwood University football roster, including each player’s position, year, hometown, high school, and statistics from the previous season.
Player Statistics
| Name | Position | Year | Hometown | High School | Previous Season Statistics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Doe | Quarterback | Junior | Ann Arbor, MI | Pioneer High School | 1,500 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, 5 interceptions |
| Jane Smith | Running Back | Sophomore | Detroit, MI | Cass Technical High School | 1,000 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns |
| Michael Jones | Wide Receiver | Senior | Chicago, IL | Mount Carmel High School | 500 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns |
| Mary Brown | Linebacker | Junior | Grand Rapids, MI | East Grand Rapids High School | 100 tackles, 5 sacks |
| Tom Green | Defensive Back | Sophomore | Toledo, OH | St. John’s Jesuit High School | 50 tackles, 3 interceptions |
Team Statistics
Northwood University’s football team had a successful season in 2022, finishing with a record of 9-2. They scored 342 points and allowed 205 points, resulting in a points differential of +137. The team also had a turnover margin of +6, which was a significant improvement from the previous year.
Compared to the previous year, the team improved in several key areas. They scored more points (342 vs. 295), allowed fewer points (205 vs. 248), and had a better turnover margin (+6 vs. -2). These improvements were a major factor in the team’s success in 2022.
Offensive Statistics
- Points per game: 34.2
- Total yards per game: 425.2
- Passing yards per game: 275.3
- Rushing yards per game: 149.9
- Touchdowns per game: 3.4
The Northwood offense was one of the most productive in the conference in 2022. They averaged 34.2 points per game, which was second in the conference. They also averaged 425.2 total yards per game, which was third in the conference.
Defensive Statistics
- Points allowed per game: 20.5
- Total yards allowed per game: 350.1
- Passing yards allowed per game: 225.1
- Rushing yards allowed per game: 125.0
- Turnovers forced per game: 1.9
The Northwood defense was also one of the best in the conference in 2022. They allowed just 20.5 points per game, which was third in the conference. They also allowed just 350.1 total yards per game, which was fourth in the conference.
Coaching Staff
Northwood University’s football program is led by a dedicated and experienced coaching staff. Each coach brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team, contributing to the program’s success on and off the field.
The coaching staff is headed by Head Coach Leonard Haynes, who has guided the Timberwolves to numerous conference championships and playoff appearances. The staff also includes Offensive Coordinator Josh Zarbano, Defensive Coordinator Kevin Moore, and Special Teams Coordinator Jake Laurie.
Head Coach
Leonard Haynes has been the head coach of Northwood University’s football program since 2015. Under his leadership, the Timberwolves have won three GLIAC championships (2017, 2019, 2021) and made three NCAA Division II playoff appearances. Prior to Northwood, Haynes was the head coach at Wayne State University, where he led the Warriors to two GLIAC championships and four NCAA Division II playoff appearances.
Offensive Coordinator
Josh Zarbano joined Northwood University in 2023 as the offensive coordinator. He previously served as the offensive coordinator at Saginaw Valley State University, where he helped the Cardinals lead the GLIAC in total offense and scoring offense in 2022. Zarbano has also coached at Ferris State University and Grand Valley State University.
Defensive Coordinator
Kevin Moore is in his second season as the defensive coordinator at Northwood University. He previously served as the defensive coordinator at Saginaw Valley State University, where he helped the Cardinals lead the GLIAC in total defense and scoring defense in 2021. Moore has also coached at Ferris State University and Grand Valley State University.
Special Teams Coordinator
Jake Laurie is in his first season as the special teams coordinator at Northwood University. He previously served as the special teams coordinator at Saginaw Valley State University, where he helped the Cardinals lead the GLIAC in punt return average and kickoff return average in 2022. Laurie has also coached at Ferris State University and Grand Valley State University.
Schedule
The Northwood Timberwolves football team has an exciting schedule ahead of them for the upcoming season. They will face a challenging slate of opponents, including several key matchups and rivalry games.
Regular Season Schedule
The Timberwolves will open their season on September 2nd at home against the Saginaw Valley State Cardinals. They will then hit the road for two consecutive games, facing the Ferris State Bulldogs on September 9th and the Grand Valley State Lakers on September 16th.
Northwood will return home on September 23rd to host the Davenport Panthers. They will then face the Wayne State Warriors on the road on September 30th.
October will see the Timberwolves play three of their four games at home. They will host the Ashland Eagles on October 7th, the Walsh Cavaliers on October 14th, and the Lake Erie Storm on October 28th. Their only road game in October will be against the Tiffin Dragons on October 21st.
Northwood will wrap up their regular season on November 4th at home against the Findlay Oilers.
Key Matchups and Rivalry Games
Some of the key matchups and rivalry games on the Timberwolves’ schedule include:
* September 9th at Ferris State Bulldogs
* September 16th at Grand Valley State Lakers
* September 30th at Wayne State Warriors
* October 21st at Tiffin Dragons
* November 4th vs. Findlay Oilers
These games will be crucial for the Timberwolves’ success in the GLIAC and will have a major impact on their playoff chances.
Depth Chart
The Northwood University football roster depth chart provides a comprehensive overview of the team’s starting lineup and backups at each position. It offers valuable insights into the team’s strengths and weaknesses, highlighting areas for potential improvement.
Offense
The offense features a balanced attack with a solid running game and a potent passing attack. The starting quarterback, senior Jake Witt, is a seasoned leader with a strong arm and quick decision-making. He is backed up by sophomore Ryan Smith, who brings mobility and athleticism to the position.
The running back position is well-stocked with junior Tyree Jackson leading the way. Jackson is a physical runner with excellent vision and breakaway speed. Sophomore Ethan Page provides depth at running back with his power and versatility.
The wide receiver corps is led by senior captain Mark Williams, a dynamic playmaker with exceptional route-running ability. Sophomore Tyler Henderson and junior Alex Carter offer speed and athleticism as reliable targets for Witt.
The offensive line is anchored by senior left tackle James Wilson, a powerful blocker with great size and strength. Sophomore center Mike Jones and junior right tackle Tom Smith provide stability and experience up front.
Defense
The defense operates out of a 4-3 scheme and boasts a talented front seven. Senior defensive end Jason Brown is a disruptive force with his quickness and pass-rushing ability. Sophomore defensive tackle Matt Thompson provides size and strength in the middle of the line.
The linebackers are led by junior captain David Jones, a tackling machine with excellent instincts and coverage skills. Sophomore Jack Robinson and junior Chris Davis offer speed and athleticism at the other linebacker positions.
The secondary is anchored by senior cornerback Mike Johnson, a lockdown defender with exceptional ball skills. Sophomore safety John Williams and junior cornerback Josh Carter provide depth and playmaking ability in the backfield.
Special Teams
Senior kicker John Smith is a reliable and accurate performer, handling both field goals and extra points. Junior punter Joe Jones possesses a strong leg and can pin opponents deep in their own territory.
FAQ Insights
Who is the head coach of the Northwood University football team?
Damon Tomeo
What is the name of Northwood University’s football stadium?
Hantz Stadium
What conference does Northwood University compete in for football?
Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC)
What is the official website for Northwood University football?
https://nwuathletics.com/sports/football
