Gus Malzahn is retiring from coaching, closing the book on a 35-year career that helped shape modern spread offenses across college football.
Malzahn most recently served as offensive coordinator at FloridaState, where coach Mike Norvell announced that Tim Harris Jr. will be promoted to offensive coordinator.
“After 35 years, it’s time for me to step away from coaching,” Malzahn said in a statement. “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.”
Malzahn, 60, began his coaching career in 1991 and built his reputation as one of college football’s most influential offensive minds. His career culminated during his tenure as head coach at Auburn from 2013-20, where he went 68-35 and consistently competed in the SEC’s toughest eras.
In 2013, Malzahn led Auburn to a 12-2 record, an SEC championship, and a berth in the BCS National Championship Game, where the Tigers fell to Florida State. Auburn later returned to the SEC Championship Game in 2017 but lost to Georgia and did not make another national title appearance during Malzahn’s tenure.
Overall, Malzahn posted a 105-62 record as a head coach across stops at Arkansas State, Auburn and UCF.
Norvell praised Malzahn’s impact during his brief stint in Tallahassee.
“He did a wonderful job coordinating our offense and calling plays in 2025,” Norvell said. “He has set a strong foundation for us to continue building on in 2026 behind the coordination of Harris.”
Harris, a longtime assistant under Norvell, inherits the offense with continuity intact, as Florida State turns the page following the retirement of one of college football’s most recognizable offensive architects.
