BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – With the changing of the guard at the head of the Gardner-Webb football program, over the next few weeks we will take a look at the new faces that will pace the sidelines for head coach Kris McCullough and the Runnin' Bulldogs. Today's spotlight will be Jacob Shaw. Shaw joins the Runnin' Bulldogs as the Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers Coach, and Camp Coordinator.
Shaw enters his role at Gardner-Webb University with a proven track record of defensive excellence and player development across multiple levels of collegiate football.
Shaw brings extensive experience coordinating defensive operations, game planning, and special teams while managing the day-to-day operations of summer camps. Prior to joining Gardner-Webb, he served as Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach at University of Texas–Permian Basin, where his defenses ranked among the nation's elite. In 2025, UTPB finished as the national quarterfinal runner-up while leading the Lone Star Conference in total and scoring defense and ranking second nationally in passing defense. He also helped guide the program to a Heritage Bowl appearance in 2024.
Shaw previously held multiple roles at East Central University, including Defensive Coordinator, Special Teams Coordinator, and Linebackers Coach. During his tenure, he helped lead ECU to a Heritage Bowl championship in 2022 and coordinated units that achieved the nation's top turnover margin. His responsibilities also included overseeing video operations and breakdown, further highlighting his attention to detail and preparation.
Beginning his collegiate career as a video coordinator and graduate assistant, Shaw has coached at every defensive level and worked closely with special teams throughout his career. He also gained valuable experience at University of Wisconsin–Stout and Verona Area High School, developing a strong foundation in teaching, player development, and scheme implementation.
A proven developer of talent, Shaw has coached numerous all-conference, regional, and All-American performers, including multiple Defensive Players of the Year and nationally recognized linebackers and defensive backs.
Shaw holds a Master of Education in Sports Administration from East Central University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and History from the University of Wisconsin. He is widely regarded for his leadership, communication skills, and ability to build disciplined, aggressive defenses that excel both on and off the field.
