CLINTON — Mississippi College announced Tuesday that it has hired Rice assistant Mike Kershaw as its next football head coach.

Kershaw spent the past five seasons as the wide receivers coach at Rice. He helped the Owls reach back-to-back bowl games for the first time since 2012-14. They will play Texas State in the First Responder Bowl on Dec. 26 in Dallas.

Kershaw will replace John Bland, who stepped down in November after 10 seasons.

“Mike Kershaw’s extensive coaching background and success in developing talent align perfectly with our vision for the football program,” Mississippi College athletics director Kenny Bizot said in a statement.

Kershaw’s hire by Mississippi College marks his return to the Magnolia State. He played quarterback for Delta State and led the Statesmen to the Gulf South Conference championship in 1998.

After graduating, Kershaw joined Delta State’s coaching staff and had several roles including recruiting coordinator from 2004-06.

Bizot said Kershaw’s familiarity with Mississippi was an asset.

“Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the Gulf South Conference and Division II,” Bizot said. “He is highly connected in our state and has consistently excelled in recruiting Mississippi and the broader region over the last several years. This sets a strong foundation for Mississippi College as he embarks on the recruiting trail. We believe his leadership will propel the team to new heights.”