Gus Malzahn Announces Retirement from Florida State, Tim Harris Jr. Promoted to Offensive Coordinator
In a surprising yet heartfelt move for college football fans, veteran offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn has announced his retirement from coaching after 35 illustrious years on the sidelines. The news, revealed on February 2, 2026, marks the end of an era for the Florida State Seminoles, where Malzahn played a pivotal role in revitalizing the team's high-powered offense during the 2025 season. Head coach Mike Norvell wasted no time in promoting co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Tim Harris Jr. to take the reins, signaling continuity and fresh energy for the program ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Malzahn's Storied Coaching Journey
Gus Malzahn's career is a testament to innovative offensive mindsets and relentless success. Rising to prominence as the offensive coordinator at the University of Tulsa in the early 2000s, Malzahn became synonymous with the hurry-up, no-huddle offense that revolutionized modern football. His big break came at Auburn University, where he served as offensive coordinator from 2009 to 2012, leading the Tigers to an unforgettable 2010 national championship run. That season, Auburn's offense, powered by Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton, averaged over 39 points per game and featured one of the most dynamic rushing attacks in college football history.
Malzahn's head coaching tenure at Auburn from 2013 to 2020 was marked by ups and downs, including a 2014 SEC Championship appearance, but also frustrations with recruiting and consistency. He later took the reins at the University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights from 2021 to 2024, where he implemented his signature Power-R Passing scheme, leading the Knights to multiple winning seasons and bowl victories. Despite his achievements, Malzahn's nomadic career—spanning high school, college, and even a brief NFL stint as a consultant—culminated in his move to Florida State in late 2024, where he joined Norvell's staff as offensive coordinator.
Impact at Florida State: A Record-Breaking 2025
Malzahn's 14-month stint at FSU was nothing short of transformative. In the 2025 season, the Seminoles dominated the ACC in total offense and rushing, a feat they accomplished for the second time in four years under Norvell's leadership. Florida State's offense averaged 472.1 yards per game, ranking sixth nationally, while their ground game churned out 218.7 rushing yards per contest—the highest mark for the program since the glory days of 1995.
The highlights were jaw-dropping. FSU notched nine games with over 400 total yards, including back-to-back explosions surpassing 700 yards—a first in school history. The pinnacle came against Kent State, where the Seminoles erupted for a staggering 775 total yards, including school-record 498 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. That performance not only topped the national charts for 2025 but was the most prolific single-game output by any FBS team since 2020. Malzahn's play-calling, blending misdirection runs, deep shots, and tempo, kept defenses off-balance and showcased the talents of emerging stars in the backfield and receiving corps.
"After 35 years, it's time for me to step away from coaching," Malzahn said in his announcement. "I am excited to spend more time with my family and focus on the next chapter of my life. I want to thank Coach Norvell for giving me the opportunity to coach at such a prestigious program. I will continue to follow Florida State, and I believe great things are ahead for the program under Coach Norvell's leadership and for the offense under Tim Harris."
Tim Harris Jr.'s Promotion: A Seamless Transition
With Malzahn's departure, Norvell turned to an internal candidate who has been instrumental in the Seminoles' recent success. Tim Harris Jr., who served as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, steps into the full offensive coordinator role. Harris, a rising star in coaching circles, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Florida State and previous stops at programs like Memphis and North Carolina State. Under his guidance, FSU's wide receivers unit became one of the most productive in the ACC, with multiple players earning All-Conference honors in 2025.
Norvell praised the continuity: "I want to thank Coach Malzahn for his effort and dedication to our program over the last 14 months. He did a wonderful job coordinating our offense and calling plays in 2025, and he has set a strong foundation for us to continue building on in 2026 behind the coordination of Tim Harris and the multiple other assistant coaches who are returning." Harris's promotion ensures that Malzahn's innovative schemes remain intact while infusing new ideas tailored to the evolving roster.
Looking Ahead: FSU's 2026 Prospects
As Florida State eyes another ACC title run, the Seminoles enter 2026 with momentum. The 2025 season's offensive fireworks positioned FSU as a national contender, and Harris's leadership could propel them further. Recruiting classes have been strong under Norvell, with blue-chip talents bolstering the lines and skill positions. Challenges remain, including a tough non-conference slate and defending against elite defenses in the ACC, but the foundation is solid.
Malzahn's retirement at age 61 comes at a time when many veteran coaches are stepping back to prioritize family and legacy. His influence on the spread offense will endure, having mentored countless coordinators now leading top programs. For FSU fans, this transition is bittersweet—gratitude for Malzahn's contributions mixed with excitement for what's next. As the Seminoles prepare for spring practices at Doak Campbell Stadium, all eyes are on Harris to keep the offensive train rolling toward playoff contention.
In the broader landscape of college football, Malzahn's exit underscores the high-stakes, high-turnover nature of the sport. Yet, his blueprint of aggressive, player-empowering offenses has left an indelible mark. Florida State, with its rich traditions and renewed vigor, stands ready to honor that legacy while charting its own path to glory.
