You Won’t Believe How Two Ex-Wagner Coaches Could Change the Super Bowl Outcome!

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.— Last February, the Staten Island football scene was alive with celebration as local hero, Jeff Stoutland, a Port Richmond alum, played a vital role in coaching the Eagles’ offensive line to a commanding Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. This Super Bowl, however, promises another thrilling connection to Staten Island as former Wagner College head coach Jason Houghtaling and assistant defensive line coach Justin Hinds prepare to face off on the sport's biggest stage.

This Sunday, Houghtaling, now an assistant offensive line coach for the New England Patriots, will go head-to-head with Hinds, who specializes in the defensive trenches as an assistant with the Seattle Seahawks. Both coaches share a connection to Wagner College, underscoring the pride of Staten Island and its capacity to produce talent that competes at the highest levels of professional football.

While Hinds hails from Port Reading, N.J., and Houghtaling calls Windsor, N.Y., home, their Wagner connection is a testament to how local beginnings can lead to outstanding achievements on the national stage. Hinds earned his master’s degree at Wagner, launching a coaching career that included stints at Western Carolina, Lafayette College, and Central Michigan, before landing his NFL break with the Chicago Bears as an assistant defensive line coach in 2022.

In contrast, Houghtaling was Wagner’s most prominent coach from 2015 to 2019. His journey to the NFL took a significant leap when he joined the Bears as an assistant offensive line coach in 2024. This trajectory not only highlights his coaching acumen but also reflects the growing influence of coaches from smaller colleges in the National Football League.

The impact of Hinds on Seattle’s line is evident. The Seahawks' formidable defense has allowed just 33 points in two playoff games leading up to Sunday, while also ranking among the top eight teams in regular-season sacks. Hinds has certainly made his mark, contributing to a defensive strategy that emphasizes pressure and disruption.

On the flip side, Houghtaling has a tough task ahead of him as he prepares for the showdown. The Patriots, under his guidance, faced a challenging game in the AFC Championship, where they were sacked five times in their victory over the Broncos. Should Houghtaling manage to establish a strong offensive line that successfully protects quarterback Drake Maye, the 2025 MVP runner-up, there’s every reason to believe New England can secure a win.

Regardless of which former Wagner coach emerges victorious, Staten Island can take immense pride in knowing that a Super Bowl-winning staffer spent formative years of his career here. This event not only celebrates their personal achievements but also serves as a reminder of the borough's growing reputation in the football world.

The journey from local high school football to the NFL is not merely about personal success; it illustrates the broader narrative of perseverance, talent development, and the interconnectedness of the football community. As fans across America tune in to watch the game, they’ll also be witnessing a piece of Staten Island’s legacy on the grand stage of the Super Bowl.