Cornell tabs Archer as next head football coach

Ithaca, NY – Cornell has selected alumnus and former team captain David Archer as its next head football coach.

Archer takes the spot vacated by Kent Austin, who resigned last month in a return to the Canadian Football League as head coach and general manager of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

"I am incredibly honored to be named the Roger J. Weiss '61 Head Coach of Football at Cornell University," Archer said. "Cornell is such a special place that changed my life. I can think of no better job in the country than being Cornell's head football coach. To me, Cornell football is all about the people. I am excited to work for President David Skorton, Vice President Susan Murphy and Director of Athletics Andy Noel. I am just as excited to serve our outstanding alumni, players and supporters."

The 29-year-old spent the last six seasons as a Cornell assistant. He will be formally introduced at a Friday press conference.

The Big Red finished 4-6 in 2012, with a 2-5 record in the Ivy League, tied with Columbia for sixth place in the eight-team league.

"I am thrilled that David Archer has accepted our offer to become the Head Coach of Football at Cornell," added Cornell director of athletics Andy Noel. "Many will consider David's meteoric rise to this level of responsibility as unconventional. However, to those who have worked with David or have had a window into his leadership acumen will not be surprised in the least. He will lead a charge that will profoundly impact Big Red football into the future."

Archer was a three year starter on the offensive line for Cornell from 2002-04, playing at tackle and guard.