NSU names John Horner as new football coach

(Tahlequah-AP) -- Northeastern State has named 16-year Redmen veteran John Horner as its next head football coach. <br><br>Horner replaced Tom Eckert, who retired earlier this week. <br><br>Horner was

Friday, June 13th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Tahlequah-AP) -- Northeastern State has named 16-year Redmen veteran John Horner as its next head football coach.

Horner replaced Tom Eckert, who retired earlier this week.

Horner was previously defensive coordinator.

He is a 1985 University of Arkansas graduate. He served as graduate assistance coach before coming to NSU. As a player, Horner and the Razorbacks qualified for three bowl games. As graduate assistant, he helped Arkansas to appearances in the Orange and Holiday bowls.

Since his arrival at NSU, Horner's defenses have been nationally ranked several times.

In 1999, the Redmen led all of NCAA Division 2 in total defense and pass defense efficiency, and in 2000, they were Number 3 in total defense and Number 1 in pass defense efficiency.

In 1994, the Redmen won their second national championship and led the nation in rushing defense.