Prairie View’s Heisma Northern Named Coordinator Of The Year

FootballScoop announced this afternoon that Heishma Northern (Prairie View) has been named FootballScoop’s 2008 D1-AA Coordinator of the Year powered by Muscle Milk®.

Heishma Northern tutored one of the most impressive defensive units in D1-AA football in 2008. The Panthers finished with a 9-1 overall record while ending the season 2nd in the nation is scoring defense and 3rd nationally in total defense.

“Our kids at Prairie View buy into the system on and off the field. We have good kids, they don’t get into trouble and that enables us to experience success,” Northern told FootballScoop.

Northern, began learning the game at an early age telling FootballScoop, “I recall breaking down game film with my dad when I was 8.” Those skills have translated into success on the field. Linebacker Zach East and safety Anthony Beck were both recognized as 1st team All-SWAC. There is no question under Northern and head coach Henry Frazier, Prairie View is far removed from the days of endless losses. These Panthers can play!

Northern was nominated by his peers and was selected by a panel of former coaches and players. Other finalists for the 2008 FootballScoop D1-AA Coordinator of the Year powered by Muscle Milk® were Billy D’Ottavio (Samford), Jeff Durden (James Madison), Zbig Kepa (William & Mary), and Mark Reardon (Villanova).

Northern will receive his award at the AFCA Convention in January and will receive a complimentary supply of various Muscle Milk® and CytoSport products.

Prairie View Defense Key stats:
2nd nationally: Scoring defense (17.8 points per game)
3rd nationally: Total defense (242 yards per game)
3rd nationally: Rushing defense (65.7 yards per game)
3rd nationally: 3rd down defensive efficiency (opponents converted 28%)
11th nationally: Sacks (2.8 per game)