Scott Cochran Hires Former Alabama QB Blake Sims and RB Ronnie Clark as Assistants at West Alabama

In a move that bolsters the football coaching staff at the University of West Alabama, head coach Scott Cochran has brought in two former Alabama standouts, quarterback Blake Sims and running back Ronnie Clark, as assistant coaches. The hiring of these two former Crimson Tide players is expected to enhance the program’s development, instilling championship-level experience and expertise in the team.

A Coaching Move Rooted in Championship Pedigree

Scott Cochran, a longtime figure in the realm of college football strength and conditioning, made headlines when he transitioned into coaching on-field positions. Now, as the head coach of West Alabama, he is looking to build a winning culture by surrounding himself with former players who have experienced success at the highest level of college football.

Blake Sims, who played quarterback for Alabama from 2010 to 2014, is best remembered for his breakout senior season when he led the Crimson Tide to an SEC Championship and a berth in the first-ever College Football Playoff. His experience under Nick Saban, coupled with his understanding of high-pressure situations, will be invaluable in developing young quarterbacks at West Alabama.

Ronnie Clark, a versatile athlete who played multiple positions for Alabama between 2014 and 2018, brings his expertise to the running backs’ room. Despite battling injuries during his college career, Clark’s perseverance and leadership earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike. His understanding of the running back position, as well as his ability to mentor players on and off the field, makes him an ideal addition to Cochran’s staff.

Blake Sims: From Player to Mentor

After a successful college career, Sims had brief stints in professional football, including opportunities in the NFL, CFL, and international leagues. Since then, he has been actively involved in mentoring young quarterbacks through training camps and personal coaching sessions. Now, Sims is set to bring his knowledge of the game to West Alabama, where he will work directly with quarterbacks to refine their skills, enhance their decision-making, and develop their leadership qualities.

“I’m beyond excited to be joining Coach Cochran and the staff at West Alabama,” Sims said in a statement. “Football has given me so much, and I want to give back by helping young athletes reach their full potential. This is an incredible opportunity to work with talented players and help build something special.”

Ronnie Clark: A Leader on and off the Field

Clark’s journey to coaching is rooted in his deep passion for the game and his ability to overcome adversity. Known for his commitment to excellence, Clark was a team-first player at Alabama, transitioning from safety to running back due to team needs. His resilience and work ethic left a lasting impression on his coaches, making him a natural fit for a leadership role in the coaching world.

Clark expressed his enthusiasm about joining West Alabama’s coaching staff, stating, “I’ve been blessed to learn from some of the best coaches in college football, and now I have the opportunity to pass that knowledge on to the next generation. Coaching is about more than just X’s and O’s—it’s about developing young men and preparing them for life both on and off the field.”

Scott Cochran’s Vision for West Alabama

Cochran’s decision to hire Sims and Clark reflects his broader vision for West Alabama football. He aims to instill a winning mindset, discipline, and hard work—the same values that made Alabama a powerhouse during his tenure as strength and conditioning coach.

“Blake and Ronnie are two guys who know what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Cochran said. “Their experience, leadership, and ability to connect with players will be a huge asset to our program. We’re building something special here, and having them on staff is another step in the right direction.”

Impact on West Alabama’s Program

With the addition of Sims and Clark, West Alabama’s football program gains two coaches who have firsthand experience in championship-level competition. Their presence is expected to boost player development, recruitment, and overall team performance.

The Tigers compete in the Gulf South Conference (GSC), a highly competitive Division II league. The insights and training methods that Sims and Clark bring from Alabama could give West Alabama a competitive edge over its rivals.

Looking Ahead

As the Tigers gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how the new coaching staff shapes the team. With Cochran at the helm and Sims and Clark playing integral roles in player development, West Alabama fans have plenty to be excited about. The combination of experience, leadership, and a championship mindset could be the key to elevating the Tigers to new heights.

With these hires, Scott Cochran has sent a clear message—West Alabama is committed to building a culture of excellence, one that reflects the values and discipline of the Alabama football program. The future certainly looks bright for the Tigers.