Full Breakdown
Rick Santos Named Head Football Coach at the University of Pennsylvania
12/13/2025, 10:20:46 PM
Introduction of Rick Santos as Head Coach
On December 13, 2025, the University of Pennsylvania announced the appointment of Rick Santos as the George A. Munger Head Football Coach. Santos, who previously served as the head coach at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), will be formally introduced to the Penn community on December 16 during a press conference at the Li Family Auditorium. The event will be streamed live on the Penn Sports Network.
Santos' Coaching Background
Rick Santos has a notable coaching history, having led UNH to three NCAA FCS Playoff appearances over five seasons, with a record of 37–24 overall and 28–12 in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). His tenure included a share of the CAA title in 2022 and a second-round playoff berth. Santos expressed gratitude for his time at UNH, stating, “I want to express my deepest gratitude to the University of New Hampshire...UNH has shaped me both professionally and personally.”
Before his head coaching role, Santos held various positions at UNH, including wide receivers coach and associate head coach. He also spent time at Columbia University as quarterbacks coach under former Penn head coach Al Bagnoli. As a player, Santos is recognized as one of the greatest in FCS history, winning the Walter Payton Award in 2006 and leading UNH to four playoff appearances.
Official Statements & Responses
Alanna Wren, Penn’s Director of Athletics and Recreation, highlighted Santos' dynamic leadership and winning record, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome a high-energy, dynamic leader in Rick Santos as the next head coach of Penn Football.” Santos himself remarked on the opportunity, saying, “Penn represents excellence at the highest level—academically, athletically, and institutionally—and I am grateful for the trust placed in me to steward such a proud and prestigious program.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the announcement has been met with enthusiasm from Penn's athletic department, there may be concerns regarding the transition from Ray Priore, who stepped down after 39 years with the program. Priore's long tenure included significant achievements, such as 12 Ivy League championships, which raises questions about the continuity and future direction of the program under Santos.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am incredibly excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead the football program at the University of Pennsylvania,” — Rick Santos, Head Football Coach
- “We are thrilled to welcome a high-energy, dynamic leader in Rick Santos as the next head coach of Penn Football,” — Alanna Wren, Director of Athletics and Recreation
Conclusion
Rick Santos' appointment marks a new chapter for Penn football, as he aims to build upon the legacy left by Ray Priore. With a strong background in coaching and a celebrated playing career, Santos is poised to lead the Quakers in pursuit of Ivy League championships and postseason success.
