Defensive Coordinator Corey Hetherman Named to AFCA’s 35 Under 35

WACO, Texas – James Madison football's Corey Hetherman was selected to the 2021 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, the American Football Coaches Association announced.

Hetherman, who's in his second year as JMU's defensive coordinator and defensive ends coach, guided one of the nation's top defensive units in the FCS in 2019.

The Dukes ranked in the FCS' top 10 in eight defensive categories, which included leading the country in total defense (270.2) and first-down defense (14.56). They also ranked third in rushing defense (74.8), third-down defense (30%) and scoring defense (15.7), fifth in tackles for loss (8.5), sixth in pass efficiency defense (111.83), and seventh in interceptions (17).

Following the season, in which JMU finished 14-2, won the Colonial Athletic Association championship and reached the Division I National Championship game, four defenders were named All-Americans. That includes defensive end Ron'Dell Carter, who was a Consensus All-American and runner-up for the STATS FCS Buck Buchanan Award. He also coached John Daka to All-America status and seventh place in the Buchanan Award voting.

His defensive ends unit combined for 60 tackles for loss, 29.5 sacks, 26 quarterback hurries, paced by Daka's FCS-leading 28 TFL and 16.5 sacks. Carter also contributed 27 TFL and 12 sacks.

He joined JMU following a four-year stint at CAA foe Maine, where he served as defensive coordinator for three of his four seasons. His 2018 Maine defense led the country in rushing defense (79.2) and was second in sacks (47).

Hetherman, along with JMU offensive coordinator Shane Montgomery, recently received two-year contract extensions through the 2022 football season.

The 35 Under 35 is a prestigious program, aimed at identifying and developing premier, future leaders in the football coaching profession. Hetherman and the other 34 honorees were chosen from a field of over 150 high-quality applicants.

Hetherman was one of 10 coaches from the Football Championship Subdivision to be selected to the 2021 list. He was also just one of two from the CAA to be honored, as he was joined by Richmond defensive coordinator Rod West.

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