Daniel Cotter begins his eighth season as an assistant coach with the Lindsey Wilson football program in 2025
Cotter was promoted to his current position as the Blue Raiders' defensive coordinator in December 2021 after serving as the safeties and special teams coordinator for his first four seasons on staff.
Since arriving at Lindsey Wilson, Cotter has helped the program to three Mid-South Conference championships and its only NAIA National Championship in 2020.
Last season, the Blue Raiders allowed just 85.2 rushing yards per game which ranked first in the NAIA. On September 7, 2024, the Blue Raider defense set a pair of program records in the 33-20 victory against Point. Lindsey Wilson forced six takeaways and limited Point to -48 rushing yards.
In 2023, Lindsey Wilson allowed 17.4 points per game which ranked 16th in the NAIA. The Blue Raiders were 12th in total yards allowed per game (277.7) and were second in the NAIA allowing just 75.1 rushing yards per game.
In his first season as defensive coordinator, the Blue Raiders led the NAIA and set program season records for fewest points allowed, fewest total yards allowed, fewest rushing yards allowed, and most quarterback sacks, and single-game records for fewest total yards allowed, fewest rushing yards allowed, and most quarterback sacks. Cotter was named the 2022 Mid-South Conference Assistant Coach of the Year for his efforts.
Cotter comes to the Blue Raiders after spending six seasons on the coaching staff at the University of the Cumberlands where he coached wide receivers, special teams, safeties, and defensive line.
In his six seasons on staff with the program, Cotter helped guide the Patriots to a 43-23 overall record, including a 2013 campaign that saw Cumberlands post a 13-1 record and finish as the NAIA National Runner-up and Mid-South Conference East Division champions. He has experience with recruiting, installing offensive and defensive game plans, scout teams, and film breakdowns.
Cotter graduated from Cumberlands in 2011 where he was a three-year starter as a defensive back, twice earning Mid-South Conference Honorable Mention honors and helping the Patriots to a trio of MSC titles from 2008-10.
He resides in Columbia with his wife Paige and Children Kycen, Skylar, and Ace.
Collegiate Coaching Career
University of the Cumberlands: Assistant Coach (2013-17)
Lindsey Wilson College: Assistant Coach (2018-present)
Contact Information
Office: Football Offices
Phone: 270-384-7374
Fax: 270-384-8078
Mail: 210 Lindsey Wilson Street, Columbia, Ky. 42728
Email: cotterd@lindsey.edu
Twitter: @Coach_CotterLWU
