SILVER CITY, N.M. — Western New Mexico University Athletics and Head Football Coach Billy Hickman have announced the hiring of Andre (AC) Patterson as the next Offensive Coordinator for the Mustangs football program.
"I am very excited to have Coach Patterson on our staff," said Head Coach Billy Hickman. "His experience and pedigree are a rare combination at our level, and we look forward to his ability to push our offense to the next level."
Patterson brings a strong background in Division I and NFL coaching, along with a reputation as one of the top young recruiters and offensive coaches in the country.
Patterson most recently served at Sacramento State Football as Co-Offensive Coordinator, Running Backs Coach, and Director of Recruiting. During his first season, Sacramento State ranked third nationally in the FCS with 262.6 rushing yards per game. He helped coach All-American Rodney Hammond Jr. to a 1,200-yard rushing season and 13 touchdowns.
Prior to Sacramento State, Patterson spent multiple seasons at Portland State Football in several roles, including Assistant Head Coach, Offensive Coordinator, Running Backs Coach, and Recruiting Coordinator. In 2023, his offense averaged 33.8 points per game and ranked fifth nationally in rushing offense.
Known for his recruiting success, Patterson helped Portland State secure the No. 1 recruiting class in the Big Sky Conference and No. 3 nationally in the FCS according to 247Sports. He was also named the top recruiter in the FCS and Big Sky Conference three times by 247Recruiting.
Patterson also spent three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings as Offensive Quality Control Coach and Assistant Running Backs Coach, helping coach Pro Bowl players Dalvin Cook and C. J. Ham.
A native of Las Vegas, NV, Patterson starred at Bishop Gorman High School before playing offensive line at University of Texas at El Paso. His playing career was cut short due multiple surgeries after knee injuries.
Patterson comes from a football family, as his father, Andre Patterson, coached more than 20 years in the NFL, including with the Dallas Cowboys, along with 14 collegiate seasons.
When Patterson was hired at Portland State in 2015, he became the youngest Division I football coach in the nation at 22 years old.
Off the field, Patterson enjoys spending time with his wife, Mary, and their two children, Tre and Ahriya.
"I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank Coach Hickman and everyone at WNMU for the opportunity," Patterson said. "I'm extremely grateful for the trust, support, and belief you all have shown in me throughout this process. It means a lot to join a program with such great people, culture, and vision. I'm excited to get to work, contribute in every way I can, and help build something special together."
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
