News Summary
Gus Malzahn has resigned as head coach of the UCF Knights football team after four challenging seasons. His departure follows a disappointing conclusion to the season, leaving the program in search of new leadership amid struggles in performance and recruiting. Malzahn will transition to an offensive coordinator role at Florida State, while UCF aims to swiftly fill the head coaching vacancy to retain players ahead of the NCAA transfer portal opening.
Orlando, Florida
Gus Malzahn has officially stepped down as head coach of the UCF Knights football program after four seasons and will take on a new role as the offensive coordinator at Florida State. This transition comes on the heels of a disheartening 31-21 loss to West Virginia, marking the Knights’ seventh defeat in their last eight games and ending an eight-season bowl game streak.
During his time at UCF, Malzahn posted an overall record of 28-24 but struggled significantly in conference play, finishing with a 5-13 record since the program’s move to the Big 12. Notably, the 2024 season marked the first two losing campaigns in Malzahn’s extensive 13-year coaching career. His tenure began with promise, boasting consecutive nine-win seasons in 2021 and 2022, but fan dissatisfaction rapidly grew amid a decline in team performance.
Fan frustration peaked as early as October, leading to a toxic atmosphere surrounding the program. The Knights’ disappointing finish showcased weaknesses particularly centered around Malzahn’s offensive management. Multiple starters were cycled in and out at the quarterback position, and the team struggled with player retention. Over 40 new players joined the roster, yet the Knights faced challenges, with several opting out after a loss to Colorado.
Contractual Obligations and Coaching Landscape
Malzahn’s contract contained a buyout clause requiring UCF to pay 75% of his remaining compensation should he be let go without cause. As of December 1, this buyout would equate to approximately $13.75 million. Following his exit, UCF now stands as one of only two Power Four programs currently seeking a head coach, with North Carolina also in a similar situation.
Under Malzahn’s leadership, criticism mounted around the program’s recruiting efforts, which dwindled significantly this past season. UCF intends to fill the head coaching vacancy promptly to avoid further player defections due to the upcoming NCAA transfer portal opening from December 9-28. The new coach will face immediate pressure to retain talent and restore the program’s competitive edge.
Future Plans for Malzahn
Gus Malzahn’s future will unfold at Florida State, where he will join Mike Norvell’s staff as the offensive coordinator and primary play-caller. This new position may present a less stressful environment for Malzahn compared to the management challenges he faced at UCF. The opportunity suggests a strategic shift in focus, allowing him to concentrate on offensive execution rather than the broader aspects of team management.
A Look Back
UCF’s football program has a rich history, particularly during the tenure of former head coach Scott Frost, where they achieved significant success, including a national championship claim. The expectations for future coaching hires remain high, as the Knights seek to return to their winning form.
As UCF prepares to search for a new head coach, potential candidates are expected to include current assistants and successful coaches from Group of Five programs. The direction the program chooses to take in the coming weeks will be crucial to its aspirations in the evolving landscape of college football.
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Additional Resources
- News Journal: Gus Malzahn Retirement
- Palm Beach Post: Ranking Florida FBS Coaches
- News Journal: UCF Knights at a Crossroads
- News Journal: Scott Frost Hired as UCF Coach
- Wikipedia: Gus Malzahn
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
