MACOMB, Ill. – The Western Illinois University football program continues to build momentum this week as Head Coach Joe Davis announces the addition of Landon Fox as the team's new Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach. Fox brings a wealth of experience and a proven ability to develop dynamic defensive units, and his leadership will be integral to the Leathernecks' defensive strategy moving forward.

"We are excited to welcome Landon, Rhonda, Riley and Logan to the WIU football family," WIU coach Joe Davis said. " Coach Fox has a tremendous track record leading productive defenses at the FCS level. More importantly, Coach Fox is a transformational leader that will do everything he can to build strong relationships with our players and create a life changing experience for Leatherneck student athletes." 

Prior to joining WIU, Fox spent five seasons at Valparaiso University as the head coach. Fox led Valpo to 14 Pioneer Football League victories over a four-year span, the most in program history and the highest league win total in any four-year period for the school since 1961-1964.

 

In Fox's first season, Valpo ranked in the top five in the PFL in scoring defense for the first time since the 2004 season. The team finished fourth in the PFL in total defense, its best ranking in that area since 2007. Fox finished the 2023 season with 17 victories as Valpo head coach, tied for the seventh most in program history. 

 

During the 2023 season, Fox's defense ranked among the top in the Pioneer Football League, including second in scoring defense (24.8), total defense (318.5), and first in rushing defense (123.3). His team also led the conference in several special teams categories, including kickoff return average (23.16), blocked punts (4), and punting average (38.22). 

 

In 2022, Fox's defense led the PFL and ranked sixth nationally in fourth-down defense (30%), while also finishing eighth nationally in red-zone defense (.705). The team ranked in the PFL's top five in multiple categories, including total offense (340.9), sacks (2.25 per game), turnovers (0 margin, 16 gained, 16 lost), passing efficiency (140.4), rushing offense (125.7), rushing defense (151.5), passing offense (215.2), and interceptions (10).

 

Before joining Valpo, Fox was well-acquainted with the Pioneer Football League, having spent 11 years as the defensive coordinator and secondary coach at the University of Dayton under Head Coach Rick Chamberlin. During his tenure, the Flyers posted an 86-38 record, won three PFL championships, and made a playoff appearance in 2015, with defense serving as a cornerstone of the program's success.

 

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