“It’s About Us as a Team”: Jake Bentley’s Vision for Turning Around Nation Ford Football
FORT MILL, S.C. — Jake Bentley wasted no time getting to work as the new head football coach at Nation Ford High School. On the very day he was introduced, the former South Carolina Gamecock quarterback was already in the weight room with his team, setting the tone for a fresh start.
A video Bentley posted to X showed players engaging in a spirited game of tug-of-war, which at first glance seemed like a fun team-building activity. However, for Bentley, it represented much more.
“It’s about us as a team pulling the rope together to accomplish the same goal and being unified through that,” Bentley explained. This concept, which he hopes will become a cornerstone of his program, underscores his commitment to building a strong, cohesive team culture.
For Bentley, stepping into a head coaching role was never a question of “if” but “when and where.” That question was answered early in 2025 when he was named head coach of the Nation Ford Falcons after serving as the quarterbacks coach at Rock Hill in 2024.
Bentley’s coaching aspirations were inspired by his father, Bobby Bentley, a veteran high school and college coach. Growing up, Jake spent countless hours on the practice fields, learning not only the X’s and O’s of football but also the importance of leadership and mentorship.
“I always saw the impact that my dad had on his players. I think that just propelled me to one day do the same,” Bentley said.

His father’s influence taught him that success in football isn’t just about championships and accolades.
“It’s not about the rings and things,” Bentley emphasized. “It’s about the relationships, the development of young men. When that’s at the center of what you do, it creates an environment that leads to success.”
Turning the Falcons around won’t be an easy task. Nation Ford hasn’t posted a winning record in a full season since 2019, but Bentley is determined to rise to the challenge.
“Success doesn’t happen overnight,” Bentley acknowledged, but his vision and dedication suggest he’s ready to lay the groundwork for long-term growth at Nation Ford.
With his team pulling the rope in the same direction, Bentley is confident they can achieve something special together.