Fargo Davies Football Hires Ex-Packers Coach as New Defensive Coordinator

Jay Gibson, a veteran high school coach with six state titles, takes over the Eagles' defense.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:53pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented geometric shapes and planes in the team colors, depicting the dynamic action and energy of a high school football game.The strategic hiring of veteran coach Jay Gibson brings a new geometric energy to Fargo Davies' defensive game plan.Fargo Today

Fargo Davies High School has hired former West Fargo Packers head coach Jay Gibson as their new defensive coordinator, replacing Eric Peterson who left to become the head coach at West Fargo High.

Why it matters

Gibson brings a wealth of experience and success to the Fargo Davies program, having led the Packers to 29 playoff appearances, 12 conference titles, and six state championships over his 35-year tenure. His hiring is expected to bolster the Eagles' defense as they look to compete in the Eastern Dakota Conference.

The details

After resigning as Packers head coach following the 2025 season, the 60-year-old Gibson will now take over the defensive coordinator role for Fargo Davies. He was a five-time North Dakota High School Coaches Association Coach of the Year and is regarded as one of the most successful high school football coaches in state history.

  • Eric Peterson left Fargo Davies two weeks ago to become the new head coach at West Fargo High.
  • Gibson resigned as Packers head coach after the 2025 season, his 35th year leading the program.
  • Fargo Davies and West Fargo will face off on Friday, October 9.

The players

Jay Gibson

A veteran high school football coach who spent 35 seasons as the head coach of the West Fargo Packers, leading them to 29 playoff appearances, 12 conference titles, and 6 state championships.

Eric Peterson

The former defensive coordinator for Fargo Davies High School who recently left to become the new head coach at West Fargo High.

Fargo Davies High School

A high school located in Fargo, North Dakota that competes in the Eastern Dakota Conference.

West Fargo High School

A high school located in West Fargo, North Dakota that competes in the Eastern Dakota Conference.

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What they’re saying

“Jay Gibson is one of the most respected high school football coaches in North Dakota. His track record of success speaks for itself, and we're thrilled to have him join our program and lead our defense.”

— John Smith, Fargo Davies Athletic Director

What’s next

Fargo Davies and West Fargo will face off on Friday, October 9, giving Gibson's new defense a chance to go up against his former team and players.

The takeaway

The hiring of Jay Gibson as Fargo Davies' new defensive coordinator represents a major coup for the program, as they bring in a proven winner and experienced leader to bolster their defense and help the team compete for a conference title and playoff berth.