South Carolina State's Defensive Mastermind Departs After HBCU Championship Run

In the dynamic world of HBCU football, where dynasties are often built on the foundation of exceptional coordinators, the departure of Jordan Odaffer from South Carolina State University marks the end of an era. Odaffer, the defensive coordinator who played a crucial role in the Bulldogs' historic MEAC Championship, Celebration Bowl victory, and HBCU national title in 2025, has announced that he is stepping away from the program.

Odaffer's decision brings to a close a remarkable run that spanned multiple successful stops, including stints at Benedict College and South Carolina State. During his tenure, he consistently shaped some of the most dominant defensive units in HBCU football, earning national recognition and establishing himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks.

Odaffer's journey began at Benedict College, where he helped the Tigers transition from a competitive SIAC team into a consistent national presence within HBCU football. Over three seasons, his defensive units ranked among the top 10 nationally in several key categories, leading the Tigers to back-to-back SIAC Championships and HBCU Division II national titles in 2022 and 2023.

Odaffer's success at Benedict earned him national recognition, with selections to work with the NFL's HBCU Combine and coach in the HBCU Legacy Bowl. These opportunities underscored the growing reputation of his defensive systems and his ability to develop players for the next level.

Odaffer's move to South Carolina State came when Chennis Berry took over as head coach, providing continuity from his time at Benedict while introducing his defensive system to the MEAC level.

The foundation laid in that first season carried over into the Bulldogs' championship run, which culminated in a Celebration Bowl victory and an HBCU national title in 2025. It was the final season of Odaffer's tenure in Orangeburg, as he now departs the program to pursue a position that will allow him to be closer to his family in Florida.

"It's been a great run and nobody can ever take away what we accomplished together," Odaffer wrote. "We definitely left everything we touched better than we found it."

Continuing the Defensive Legacy at South Carolina State

With Odaffer's departure, South Carolina State now faces the challenge of maintaining the defensive standard he has set. One possible option already exists on the Bulldogs' staff in the form of defensive line coach Gary Howard, who also previously worked under Chennis Berry at Benedict College.

During his time at Benedict, Howard helped develop one of the SIAC's top defensive units, coaching back-to-back SIAC Defensive Players of the Year and multiple All-Americans. His familiarity with the Bulldogs' current roster and defensive approach could make him a natural fit to ensure continuity as South Carolina State aims to sustain the excellence that delivered a MEAC Championship, Celebration Bowl victory, and HBCU national title in 2025.

HBCUConnect's Perspective: The departure of Jordan Odaffer from South Carolina State University is a significant moment for the HBCU football community. Odaffer's tenure as the Bulldogs' defensive coordinator was marked by consistent excellence, with his units consistently ranking among the top in their respective conferences. His ability to develop players and implement effective defensive strategies has made him a respected figure in the HBCU coaching landscape. The impact of his contributions will be felt for years to come, and his departure presents an opportunity for another rising star to emerge and continue the tradition of defensive excellence at South Carolina State University.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.