In a significant announcement, Carson-Newman Vice President for Athletics, Matt Pope, introduced Ashley Ingram, a long-time Navy assistant head coach, as the 20th head coach of the Carson-Newman football program. The unveiling occurred during a press conference held at the Ken Sparks Athletic Complex on Wednesday afternoon.
Pope expressed the rigorous selection process, stating, “We had more than 100 people express interest in this position.” After careful consideration, Ashley Ingram emerged as the chosen candidate to guide the Carson-Newman football program. Pope cited Ingram’s profound knowledge of option football, familiarity with C-N football history, and his commitment to developing strong Christian men as key factors in the decision.
Charting New Territory
Ashley Ingram, a graduate of North Alabama, makes history as the first non-alumnus to lead the football program since Johnny Wike (1973-77). He joins a select group, including Richie Gaskell (1966-69) and Bob Davis (1964-65), as one of the few head coaches without a C-N graduation background since the 1920s.
Carson-Newman University President Dr. Charles A. Fowler emphasized the alignment of values, stating, “Coach Ingram does that. He’s experienced and successful in running the option. He is a man of deep and expressed faith in Jesus. He has the skill and discipline to build a winning program.”
Having spent the last 16 years at the Naval Academy, Ashley Ingram boasts a commendable coaching history. Navy achieved a 113-90 (.556) record during his tenure, marked by victories against Army, 10 bowl appearances, six bowl wins, six Commander-In-Chief’s Trophies, and three victories over Notre Dame.
Ingram’s coaching prowess extends beyond wins, as he mentored standout players like Keenan Reynolds and Malcolm Perry, both of whom went on to become NFL draft picks. His impact on Navy’s offensive line and recruiting efforts earned him recognition as Navy’s top recruiter.
Transitioning to Carson-Newman
Addressing his move to Carson-Newman, Ingram expressed, “I was looking for a place that is committed to winning football at a high level. I know that Carson-Newman is. More importantly, I was looking for a place that was looking to affect the hearts and lives of young men.”
Known for his advocacy of option offenses, Ingram’s coaching philosophy aligns with Navy’s impressive rushing statistics. Navy averaged 286.32 yards per game rushing under his guidance, finishing in the top five nationally in rushing yardage in FBS eight times in the last 11 years.
Ingram’s tenure at Navy included remarkable seasons, such as the 2019 campaign where Navy secured a school-record tying 11 wins, the Commander-In-Chief’s Trophy, and a Liberty Bowl victory. The team’s success was attributed to a potent rushing offense and a standout offensive line.
Legacy and Family Ties
A native of Iron City, Ga., and a 1996 graduate of the University of North Alabama, Ingram’s football journey began as a four-year letterman on the offensive line, contributing to three Division II national titles. He brings a rich coaching history, having started as a graduate assistant and progressing through various coaching roles.
Ingram’s family background is steeped in football, with his father, Alan, coaching high school football for 43 years. His brother, Robert, was a Kodak All-American linebacker and currently coaches at North Cobb High School.
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Colleagues praise Ashley Ingram as an exceptional coach, recruiter, and leader. His impact on Navy’s football program and the lives of his players is highly regarded.
Ingram’s transition to Carson-Newman brings a wealth of experience, a commitment to excellence, and a vision to shape the future of the football program. As the 20th head coach, Ingram aims to continue the legacy of success and character-building at Carson-Newman University.
