MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Jim Nichols has decided to resign as Faulkner's head football coach, according to University president Billy D. Hilyer.

"I appreciate Jim and what he's done here in getting this program started," Hilyer said. "He has meant a lot to this University over the past three years and we think so much of him and his family. I have asked Jim to consider staying with the school in another capacity.

"We certainly wish Jim great success in his future endeavors, whether they be at Faulkner or elsewhere.'"

Faulkner announced it would start football in the summer of 2006 and Nichols was hired that June, immediately putting together a staff and recruiting players. The Eagles began intercollegiate competition in the fall of 2007. In its two seasons Faulkner has compiled a 3-18 record.

Nichols arrived at Faulkner after spending three years at Auburn as a graduate assistant for head coach Tommy Tuberville, where he worked on the defensive side of the ball.

"I appreciate Faulkner and what it's done for me these past three years in giving me the opportunity to be a head coach at the collegiate level," Nichols said. "We've laid a good foundation and we've done some good things.

"I feel it is best that I step aside at this point from the program. The hardest part of my decision was that I'd no longer have the opportunity to work with these players who have meant so much to me these past three years. My family and I are looking at other options that may include coaching, or it may include getting into athletic administration. I want to thank Dr. Billy Hilyer, the board of trustees, the faculty and the administration at Faulkner for this opportunity."

Faulkner athletic director Brent Barker has tabbed offensive line coach and running game coordinator Gregg Baker as the Eagles' interim head coach. A search for a permanent head coach will begin immediately.

"Jim has been a great personal friend of mine and will remain so," Barker said. "I know he'll be successful with whatever direction he takes."