Statesboro, GA -- Georgia Southern named Jacksonville Jaguars linebackers coach Brian VanGorder as its new football coach on Friday.

"I want to thank (athletic director) Sam Baker and (GSU president) Dr. Bruce Grube for giving our family this opportunity," said VanGorder. "This is something that we have talked and dreamed about."

VanGorder had joined the Jaguars this past January after serving as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Georgia since 2001. In his last season with the Bulldogs, the defense was ranked eighth in the nation and ninth in scoring defense. In 2003, he was named the winner of the Frank Boyles Assistant Coach of the Year Award as the nations top assistant coach.

"We are extremely fortunate to be able to hire Brian as our head football coach," said Baker. "It's a testimony to our football program, being able to attract a candidate of Brian's stature."

He replaces Mike Sewak, who was told by the team that he would not be brought back as head coach for next season. The Eagles finished the season 8-4 and lost in the opening round of the playoffs to Texas State, 50-35.

VanGorder will join the team at the end of the NFL season.