He previously served as the head coach of the West Alabama football program for 10 seasons, stepping down to become the university's permanent AD after being named to the role on an interim basis in 2024 after the retirement of Kent Partridge.

Gilliland played quarterback for the Tigers from 2000 to 2003 where he set several school records.

He began his coaching career in 2004 and held assistant coaching positions at West Alabama, Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State.

Gilliland was announced as West Alabama's 21st head coach on December 9, 2013.

[1][2] Gilliland resigned as head coach after the 2024 season to become athletic director at West Alabama.