Eli’s going: App State launches search for new head coach; name Shawn Clark interim
Eli Drinkwitz is expected to be confirmed Tuesday as the new head coach at Missouri, but Appalachian State isn’t waiting for the official word.
They began moving Monday, naming assistant Shawn Clark as interim head coach as they launched a search for Drinkwitz’ replacement.
Clark, a Mountaineer graduate who has been offensive line coach the past four seasons, will guide App State in its Dec. 21 New Orleans Bowl appearance against UAB.
“Appalachian State wishes coach Drinkwitz all the best,” ASU Chancellor Sheri Everts said Monday. “We know he will continue a successful career, and we will always call him a Mountaineer.”
Drinkwitz spent only one season in Boone but guided the Mountaineers to a 12-1 record that included a Sun Belt Conference championship game victory, a school- and conference-record 12 victories, triumphs over North Carolina and South Carolina, and a school-best No. 20 ranking.
At Missouri, he will replace Barry Odom, who was fired Nov. 30 after four seasons.
Drinkwitz, whose salary was $750,000 at App State, will make $4 million annually with the Tigers, according to several reports Monday.
The University of Missouri Board of Curators will meet Tuesday morning to approve the contract.
Clark, who is expected to be among candidates for the permanent App State job, says he is excited with his new role.
“I love our team, and we will do everything we can to send off our seniors in the right way and give our young men a great bowl experience.
