Jim Carlen, born in July 1933 in Cookeville, Tennessee, was a standout punter and linebacker at Georgia Tech, where he also began his coaching career as an assistant. His first head coaching position came at West Virginia, where he led the team from 1966 to 1969 before moving on to Texas Tech from 1970 to 1974. Carlen was then hired by the University of South Carolina (UofSC) in 1975, where he served as both the head football coach and athletic director. Under his leadership, the Gamecocks achieved 45 wins and made three bowl game appearances, with one of the most notable victories being a 17-14 win over No. 17 Michigan. His recruitment of future Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers was a key highlight of his tenure. Coach Carlin also coached Rick Sanford, and Willie Scott, along with George, each of which were the first three Gamecocks in program history to be drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Carlen ranked second in UofSC history for coaching wins until Steve Spurrier surpassed him. With 107 total wins as a coach, Carlen’s accomplishments included being named the 1973 National Coach of the Year and earning three Southwest Conference Coach of the Year honors in 1970, 1973, and 1974. He was inducted into the University of South Carolina Athletics Hall of Fame and the Texas Tech Athletics Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy in college football. His impact on the program at South Carolina extended beyond the field, as his leadership helped elevate the football program to new heights during his tenure from 1975 to 1981.

After retiring from coaching, Carlen continued to contribute to the sport by starting the football program at Hilton Head Christian Academy, where he coached both the junior varsity and varsity teams. In addition to his coaching career, Carlen worked in banking and real estate development. He passed away in July 2010 in Hilton Head, South Carolina, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both coaching and his contributions to South Carolina athletics.

Photo Courtesy of Gamecock Athletics