Former Southern University and Norfolk State head coach Dawson Odums is reportedly closing in on becoming the next head coach of Bowie State. John Brice of Football Scoop reported that Odums has been offered the position at Bowie State and will most likely take the position. This brings Odoms back to the sidelines after a year away from the action.
Odoms was most recently the head coach at Norfolk State prior to the institution's hire of Michael Vick. He was in his fourth season as head coach, leaving with a 15-30 overall record. He was hired as the 18th head coach in program history on April 21, 2021. His tenure was highlighted by a 6-5 season in 2021, which included a six-game winning streak — the longest for the program since 1984. That season also marked Norfolk State’s first winning record since 2007.
However, Odums's Spartans struggled in the 2024 season, finishing 4-8 overall and 2-3 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), a .333 win percentage. Norfolk State ranked last in the conference in passing offense and second-to-last in passing defense, with issues at the quarterback position contributing to the team's difficulties. To start the season starting quarterback Otto Kuhns missed the first few games of the season due to an NCAA ruling, forcing junior college transfer Jalen Daniels into the starting role. Daniels ended the season ranked last in the MEAC in passing, with 1,333 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Prior to joining Norfolk State, Odums spent a decade with Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he enjoyed significant success in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). He served as head coach from 2012 to 2021, posting a 63-35 overall record and guiding the Jaguars to a 29-6 mark in SWAC play over his final five seasons. His tenure included one SWAC championship (2013), four SWAC West Division titles (2013, 2014, 2018, 2019), and SWAC Coach of the Year honors in 2013.
A decision on Odums's hire at Bowie State is likely to happen soon, as National Singing Day is February 4th.
