Photo by Dean Reid, d3photography.com

Eastern Illinois University announced on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, that Chris Wilkerson has been hired as the new head football coach for the Panthers. Wilkerson guided the University of Chicago football program from 2013-21.

The Maroons produced one of the most successful runs in program history under Wilkerson's leadership. In his nine years as head coach, Wilkerson posted a 51-27 overall record, including a 39-15 mark against conference opponents. His .654 winning percentage is the highest of UChicago football's modern era (1969-present) and the second-highest overall since the team's inception in 1892. The 2014 squad won the University Athletic Association title.

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Wilkerson has 27 years of collegiate football coaching experience, which began at his alma mater Eastern Illinois. He played football for the Panthers from 1991-94 before serving on the EIU coaching staff from 1995-2001. He went on to coaching stints at San Jose State (2002-04) and Dartmouth (2005-13).

"It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the head football coach at UChicago for the past nine seasons," Wilkerson said. "I want to thank all the players and coaches for their commitment and passion for Maroon football! I want to thank Angie Torain, Rosalie Resch and Erin McDermott for their efforts, leadership and continual support during my time in Hyde Park. I look forward to watching the Maroon football program continue to accomplish amazing things as they take the program forward."

During Wilkerson's tenure, UChicago football produced three D3football.com All-Americans, nine All-Region performers, four conference players of the year, four CoSIDA Academic All-Americans and 118 all-conference honorees.

The 2021 season was a record-breaking campaign for the Maroons, who posted an 8-2 overall record and a 7-2 mark in the Midwest Conference. The offensive unit shattered six single-season school records, three single-game school records and seven individual records. Running back Nicholas D'Ambrose finished second in the nation with a school-record 1,714 rushing yards, while setting new program bests for yards per carry (7.4), points scored (120) and rushing touchdowns (20). The Maroons ranked in the top 20 nationally in 10 different categories, including first in third-down conversions, fifth in total offense, fifth in rushing offense, fifth in scoring offense, second in passing yards allowed and fourth in total defense. Offensively, they averaged 48 points per game and surpassed 65 points in four separate games. The defense held three opponents to three points or fewer, including two shutouts.

"We are thrilled that Chris is pursuing this opportunity but will miss his leadership both on and off the field," said UChicago athletic director Angie Torain. "We are especially grateful that Chris's talents have given the Maroons a strong foundation for future success."