Marshall Faulk has taken up a new challenge at HBCU Southern University, stepping in as head coach with a clear vision to elevate the program. Drawing from Deion Sanders’ coaching tree, Faulk is implementing the Coach Prime approach, emphasizing discipline, innovation, and a winning culture.
From day one, Marshall Faulk has assembled an elite squad of assistant coaches, strategically hiring talent that includes former NFL and Super Bowl champions to strengthen Southern’s coaching staff.
This combination of experience and pedigree is designed to accelerate player development, optimize game planning, and make Southern University a competitive force in HBCU football. Every hire reflects Faulk’s commitment to building a championship-ready program.
Head Coach Marshall Faulk Southern University Assistants update
Marshall Faulk sought after NFL experience and Super Bowl pedigree to build a program ready for championship contention with his elite coaching staff, which includes:
Ken Merchant – Offensive Coordinator
Deion Sanders’ coaching tree continues to influence Faulk’s hires, with Ken Merchant joining as offensive coordinator. Merchant previously worked as an offensive analyst at UNLV (2023) and offensive coordinator at Monroe College (2022), with prior stops at Pace, Long Island, Buffalo, Howard, and ASA College.
Merchant played college football at Southern Connecticut State and brings significant analytical and play-calling experience to Southern University, helping shape Brennan Marion-style offensive innovations at the collegiate level.
Curtis Johnson – Assistant Head Coach / General Manager
Marshall Faulk has appointed Curtis Johnson as assistant head coach and general manager. Johnson spent the bulk of his NFL coaching career with the New Orleans Saints (2006–2011, 2017–2021) as wide receivers coach and senior offensive assistant, coaching stars like Marques Colston, Reggie Wayne, and Santana Moss.
He also spent a season with the Chicago Bears in 2016. Johnson won Super Bowl XLIV with the Saints and the 2001 BCS National Championship with Miami, making him one of the few assistants on staff with championship pedigree. His NFL and collegiate experience strengthen Southern’s talent recruitment and program management under Faulk.
Ben Miles – Tight Ends Coach
Ben Miles joins Marshall Faulk’s staff as tight ends coach. Miles brings a combination of playing experience and positional coaching expertise, focusing on developing versatile tight ends capable of both blocking and receiving, a critical piece in Faulk’s offense that mirrors professional-level schemes.
Miles’ presence ensures positional continuity and hands-on mentorship for athletes aiming for NFL readiness.
Donald Penn – Offensive Line Coach
Marshall Faulk has also hired Donald Penn to lead Southern’s offensive line. Penn played 194 NFL games with 189 starts, including 170 consecutive starts from 2007–2017. His career includes three Pro Bowl selections (2010, 2016, 2017) and the unique achievement of four regular-season touchdowns as an offensive lineman.
Penn’s tenure with the Vikings, Buccaneers, Raiders, and Washington Football Team brings elite professional experience to Southern, enhancing both technique and durability in the offensive line room.
Todd Lyght – Defensive Coordinator
Marshall Faulk has appointed Todd Lyght as defensive coordinator. Lyght played 12 NFL seasons with the Rams and Lions, winning Super Bowl XXXIV with St. Louis. He recorded 37 career interceptions and 4 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors in 1999. Lyght has coached defensive backs at Notre Dame and served in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles.
At Southern, Lyght brings championship-level defensive insight, emphasizing ball skills, coverage discipline, and a professional mindset for the secondary and linebackers.
Aqib Talib – Defensive Backs Coach
Marshall Faulk has brought Aqib Talib to Southern University as defensive backs coach. Talib’s NFL career spans the Buccaneers, Patriots, Broncos, and Rams, highlighted by Super Bowl 50 with Denver.
A five-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, Talib finished with 35 interceptions, 125 passes defended, and 462 tackles.
Known for elite coverage and “pick-six” instincts, Talib now mentors Southern’s defensive backs, instilling professional-level anticipation, leadership, and championship experience.
With this elite lineup, Marshall Faulk is signaling that Southern University is no longer just competing. It’s built to win championships.
Also Read: Marshall Faulk Reveals How Deion Sanders Convinced Him To Coach At Colorado
Aqib Talib is not the DB coach nor is he on staff. I have been talking to the DB coach daily for the past month and it is not him.