George Sanders was hired as the Secondary Coach/Defensive Pass game Coordinator in January 2023 under Head Coach Clint Killough. He came to UIW from Pittsburg State University where he served three seasons as the cornerbacks coach.
In 2023 the UIW defense led the Southland Conference in total defense, points allowed per game, passing yards allowed, passing defense efficiency,1st down defense, third down conversion, and defensive touchdowns. Nationally, UIW finished first for defense passing efficiency, tied for fourth for defensive touchdowns, sixth for both passing yards allowed and total defense, and seventh for third down conversions. Sanders coached Brandon Richard and Ronald Wilson who were All-Conference selections in the secondary.
In 2022, Sanders’ cornerbacks helped the Pitt State defensive squad lead the MIAA in scoring defense and ranked second in the conference in total defense, passing defense, and sacks. The defense ranked seventh nationally in scoring defense and 19th nationally in total defense. Pitt State was one of just four defensive units to return four or more interceptions for touchdowns. Cornerback Rico Payton garnered All-MIAA honors for his play in the secondary.
In 2021, the Pitt State defense led the MIAA in interceptions and were ranked second in scoring defense and total defense. Cornerback Dallis Flowers gained All-MIAA and All-American honors for his play in the secondary. Jordan Hendy also gained All-MIAA honors.
During the 2019 season, Sanders served as a defensive graduate assistant at UIW under Defensive Coordinator Justin Deason. Sanders helped freshman Defensive Back Jaylon Jimmerson earn All-Southland Conference and HERO Sports Freshman All-America honors. UIW forced 33 turnovers through its 12 games, ultimately ranking third nationally. The Cardinals snagged 17 interceptions, a conference-high mark that also ranked seventh nationally. Their 16 fumbles recovered ranked third. UIW’s defense scored four touchdowns, which led the SLC and ranked fifth in the nation.
During the 2018 season, Sanders served as a defensive graduate assistant at Northeastern State University, coaching cornerbacks and nickels. He worked as a defensive assistant at Briar Cliff University during the spring of 2018.
Sanders was a standout player at Southwest Baptist University from 2012-16. As a senior he helped lead the Bearcats to win the Great Lakes Valley Conference title and a NCAA Division II playoff berth, both firsts in school history.
Sanders earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports, Fitness and Recreation management from Southwest Baptist in December 2016. George is a native of Houston, TX. He is married to Aprell Williams, a UIW alum, and they have one daughter, Destinee Sanders.
