University of New Hampshire football’s head coach, Rick Santos, resigned this Saturday to take a job in the Ivy League at the University of Pennsylvania.
During his four seasons with the Wildcats, Santos led UNH to a 31-19 record and put UNH back in contention for playoff football. The Wildcats were nationally ranked in the FCS during all four years and made three NCAA playoff appearances in 2022, 2024 and 2025.
Director of Athletics Allison Rich announced that associate head coach and defensive coordinator Scott James will serve as the interim head coach while the program launches a search for a new head coach.
“I’m thankful for Rick’s leadership and service to UNH, and our student-athletes, coaches, and staff,” Rich said in a press release.
Santos was scheduled to be formally introduced to the Penn community on Tuesday at 1 p.m.
“Rick’s mentorship and commitment have been impactful in shaping UNH football as a nationally prominent program and elevating the student-athlete experience. As one of the best players to wear a UNH jersey, he is also a Wildcat for Life. I wish him and his family the best,” Rich added.
Santos himself stepped into the role of head coach after being named the interim head coach, taking over for the long-tenured coach Sean McDonnell. Santos was a former UNH quarterback and a 2016 UNH Hall of Fame inductee for his contributions as a player.
Scott James is taking over a team that had an 8-5 overall record and a 6-2 record in the Coastal Athletic Association Conference. The ‘Cats fell to #14 South Dakota State in the NCAA playoffs last month, 41-3.
Under Santos’ leadership, the Wildcats produced a few NFL talents, most prominently the Las Vegas Raiders’ running back Dylan Laube and Vikings quarterback Max Brosmer.