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MARBLE FALLS—One of the most successful coaches in Texas high school football history is taking over a program that has run a losing race with success for close to 15 years.

Todd Dodge is the new head coach of the Marble Falls Mustangs. The former UT quarterback (1982-85) won four state championships at Southlake Carroll (Metroplex), 2002-2006. The Mustangs made the playoffs in 2010 for the first time since 1998 and experienced a terrible season in 2011. It led to the reassignment of Cord Woerner.

“I see this as an opportunity,” Dodge told reporters, January 23, a couple of hours before the school board approved his hiring. “It feels great to be here. When I went into coaching (in the mid-‘80s) I hoped to get to the Hill Country.”

Following Dodge’s great years at Carroll, he won a rare promotion from high school to college—North Texas. Things went badly, a 6-37 record, and he was fired before his fourth season ended. He was the University of Pittsburgh’s quarterbacks’ coach in ’11.

“Readjustment back to high school will be no problem,” he insisted. “Frankly, this is my passion, to be a coach in a town with one high school. I think you have a better chance (on this level) to make a difference with athletes.”

After Dodge left Pitt, “I heard he may be interested,” said Marble Falls ISD superintendent, Dr. Rob O’Connor. “He had plenty of opportunities; we’re very fortunate to have him.”

Todd Dodge indicated he might make some changes on his staff. “Guys with championship rings have called to tell me of their interest.”

He said there could be spring practice, which is optional for Class 4A, and he divulged he’ll run the spread offense, primarily with one running back and four wide receivers.

Dodge led Texas in passing in the bizarre campaign of 1984. The Longhorns, under Fred Akers, were 6-0 with one tie. They lost four of their last five games.

He was asked what he gained coaching the Panther QBs last autumn. “I learned where I want to be, not at a Class 5A school in Texas, but Marble Falls.

“One thing that jumps out at you is the commitment from school and community. You can’t put a price on that.”