ESPN REPORT: Kliff Kingsbury, Former Texas Tech Red Raiders Head Coach and Quarterback, Takes on New Role in the NCAA – A Distinguished Alumnus of Texas Tech University and a Former Standout Player Under the Legendary Mike Leach, is Set to Return to College Football as the New Head Coach at the University of Houston

ESPN REPORT: Kliff Kingsbury, Former Texas Tech Red Raiders Head Coach and Quarterback, Takes on New Role in the NCAA – A Distinguished Alumnus of Texas Tech University and a Former Standout Player Under the Legendary Mike Leach, is Set to Return to College Football as the New Head Coach at the University of Houston

 

In a stunning turn of events that’s electrifying the college football landscape, Kliff Kingsbury, former Texas Tech quarterback and head coach, is officially returning to the NCAA ranks—this time as the new head coach of the University of Houston Cougars. ESPN has confirmed that the deal was finalized earlier this week, marking a dramatic comeback for one of the sport’s most recognizable and innovative offensive minds.

 

Kingsbury, who made his name slinging the football in Mike Leach’s Air Raid offense at Texas Tech in the early 2000s, has come full circle. After a rollercoaster career that included head coaching stints at his alma mater and in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals, Kingsbury is ready to return to his roots in college football—where his reputation as a quarterback whisperer and offensive genius was born.

 

“This is more than just a job,” Kingsbury said in a statement released Monday morning. “It’s a new chapter, a fresh challenge, and a chance to build something special in a city that lives and breathes football. I’m honored to lead the Houston Cougars and excited to help develop the next generation of players on and off the field.”

 

Kingsbury’s return comes at a pivotal time for the University of Houston, which recently transitioned into the Big 12 Conference and is looking to solidify its identity among college football’s top programs. With Kingsbury at the helm, the Cougars are signaling their intent to compete—and win—at the highest level.

 

University of Houston Athletic Director Chris Pezman called the hire “a bold and strategic move,” pointing to Kingsbury’s deep Texas ties, his experience at both the college and professional levels, and his proven ability to develop elite quarterbacks. “Kliff brings a vision and energy that align perfectly with where we want this program to go. His return to the college game is a major win for Houston and for the Big 12.”

 

Kingsbury’s coaching résumé includes mentoring NFL quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes, Baker Mayfield, and Kyler Murray. Known for his uptempo, high-powered offenses, his teams have consistently ranked among the nation’s best in passing and scoring. His ability to connect with players and build explosive offenses could be exactly what Houston needs to take the next step.

 

For Texas Tech fans, Kingsbury will always be the hometown hero—the record-setting quarterback turned head coach who carried the Red Raiders’ legacy with pride. Now, as he prepares to take the field wearing different colors, he brings that same passion, drive, and play-calling brilliance to the city of Houston.

 

Kingsbury is expected to be introduced at a press conference later this week. As the college football world reacts to the news, one thing is clear: Kliff is back, and he’s ready

to make noise.