Malzahn Resigns from UCF, Heading to FSU

Gus Malzahn has resigned as head coach of the UCF Knights to take a new position as FSU’s offensive coordinator. This was announced on Saturday after UCF’s season-ending loss to Utah.

BOOM 💥

A renowned offensive innovator with a championship pedigree, Gus Malzahn has been hired as our next offensive coordinator after overseeing a top-10 rushing offense and top-20 total offense each of the last three seasons

🔗: https://t.co/IKBvIFVo78#NoleFamily |… pic.twitter.com/uZljeKtRdX

— FSU Football (@FSUFootball) December 2, 2024

What led to Malzahn’s Departure?

Malzahn served as the head coach of UCF for four seasons. Prior to taking the job for the Knights, he was the head coach of Auburn and took Tigers to the BCS title game in 2013. Throughout his time as a head coach and offensive coordinator in college football, he holds a 105-62 record.

When he arrived at UCF, it was a known fact that Malzahn would be expected to build an explosive offensive and a dominant team. His time with the Knights ended with eight losses in their last nine games. With a tough ending to this season, Malzahn would have faced much pressure if he remained for the 2025 season. The voice of UCF Sports, Marc Daniels shared the ultimate thing that led to Malzahn resigning.

Malzahn’s decision to leave and take the opportunity at FSU seems to be out of self-awareness that he is unable to be the coach they need at this point.

Fresh Start

The Knights ended the 2024 season 4-8, ranking 13th in the Big 12. The departure of Malzahn leaves UCF with the ability to restart and bring in a fresh coach. Daniels mentioned how UCF is left with no ties to Malzahn.

As Malzahn resigns, it doesn’t cost UCF anything but will be at his own expense since his contract didn’t end until June 30th, 2025. Both Malzahn and UCF are parting with no bad blood, but with the utmost respect for one another.

Statement from UCF Athletics: pic.twitter.com/DS90sDP59k

— UCF Knights 🌴 (@UCFKnights) November 30, 2024

Get it Right

The task to hire a new head football coach is one that needs appropriate attention. Daniels reminded UCF fans of the need for the correct hire.

A rush job will not produce the outcome desired by UCF fans. Daniels later added that the athletic department most likely hopes to secure a coach by the time the transfer portal opens, but the importance of getting it right is the top priority.

 What UCF Has to Offer

As UCF looks at the positives surrounding its program, it sees great potential to rebuild a dynamic program given the correct coach. In conversation about possible head coaches, Daniels shared his confidence in finding the right one.

There is no doubt that UCF has the resources and tools to become a powerhouse in the Big 12, but they are in need of a coach who will be able to help them do that.