In a significant move ahead of the 2025 college football season, Texas Tech has announced major coaching changes, including the departure of offensive coordinator Zach Kittley, who will become the head coach at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). This marks the end of Kittley’s successful tenure at Texas Tech, where he helped lead the Red Raiders to one of their most productive offensive seasons in recent history. Kittley’s offense averaged nearly 460 yards per game, including 298 passing yards per game, with standout performances from star players like Tahj Brooks. Kittley’s decision to accept a head coaching job is seen as a natural progression for the young coach, who is set to become one of the youngest head coaches in the FBS.
This coaching shake-up comes shortly after Texas Tech’s announcement to part ways with defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter, following a season marked by inconsistent defensive performances. Despite overcoming injuries and youthful inexperience on the defensive line, DeRuyter’s defense struggled throughout the year, which was a key factor in the team’s inability to reach higher rankings.
. Head coach Joey McGuire acknowledged the need for improvement on both sides of the ball, emphasizing that stronger defensive play is crucial to the team’s future success.
With Kittley moving to FAU, Texas Tech is now faced with the task of finding new coordinators for both offense and defense. The Red Raiders are reportedly close to hiring Shiel Wood, the defensive coordinator at the University of Houston, as DeRuyter’s replacement.
. McGuire has expressed confidence that the team will adapt to these changes, with hopes that returning players and transfers will help rejuvenate the defense. On offense, the loss of Brooks will likely lead to a shift in offensive strategy, potentially focusing more on the passing game as Texas Tech moves forward with quarterbacks like Behren Morton and Will Hammond.
This restructuring marks a pivotal moment for the Texas Tech football program, signaling the beginning of a new era under McGuire’s leadership. While changes are always challenging, they present an opportunity to refine the team’s identity and push for greater success in the upcoming seasons.