Tom Miller

Thomas “Tom” Miller has steadily built a reputation as one of the premier defensive minds in the Mid-States Football Association, combining player development, disciplined structure, and elite statistical performance into a consistently dominant unit.

Since joining the University of St. Francis in 2020, Miller has played a pivotal role in the rise of the Fighting Saints’ defense. Promoted to Defensive Coordinator ahead of the 2021 season, he quickly engineered one of the most dramatic turnarounds in the conference—transforming a defense that allowed 38 points and 420 yards per game in 2019 into the top-ranked unit in the MSFA Midwest by 2021, surrendering just 17 points and 294 yards per game. That performance earned him MSFA Midwest Assistant Coach of the Year honors and helped power St. Francis to a share of the conference title.

Miller’s defenses have continued to set the standard. In 2023, his unit etched its name in program history by breaking long-standing school records for fewest points allowed (143) and fewest yards allowed (2,516), while tying the program record with three shutouts—a mark that had stood since 1988. His ability to maximize talent and build cohesive, high-performing defenses earned him a second MSFA Midwest Assistant Coach of the Year award.

Across his tenure at St. Francis, Miller has developed a pipeline of elite defensive talent, producing 34 All-Conference selections, the 2023 MSFA Defensive Player of the Year (Kemon Reese), and multiple NAIA All-Americans. His players have also earned numerous weekly honors, reflecting both individual excellence and consistent team performance.

Beyond game day, Miller is deeply involved in all aspects of the program, including practice planning, skill development, and strategic implementation. His attention to detail and emphasis on preparation have been key drivers of the Fighting Saints’ sustained success.

Before arriving at St. Francis, Miller gained valuable experience at the University of Minnesota Crookston, where he served as Defensive Coordinator and Assistant Head Coach, as well as Recruiting Coordinator. His coaching journey also includes stops at Concordia University Chicago and the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, where he contributed across multiple positions and roles, including video coordination and defensive leadership.

A graduate of Ripon College with a degree in exercise science, Miller also earned a master’s in coaching and athletics administration from Concordia University Irvine. His foundation as both a player and coach has shaped a well-rounded approach centered on discipline, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Known for building aggressive, fundamentally sound defenses and developing impact players, Coach Tom Miller continues to elevate the standard at St. Francis while cementing his place as one of the top defensive coordinators in the NAIA.