TCU Football Launches Critical Offensive Coordinator Search After Key Departure

Sonny Dykes needs a new offensive coordinator. Kendal Briles is leaving TCU for South Carolina. The move was confirmed on Monday. It creates a major vacancy in Fort Worth.

The Horned Frogs must act swiftly. The coaching carousel waits for no one. This hire is crucial for the program’s offensive future. According to reports from major sports outlets, the search is already active.

Top Candidate Emerges With Championship Pedigree

Garrett Riley is a logical top target. He is currently the offensive coordinator at Clemson. Riley previously held the same role at TCU. He orchestrated the offense that reached the national championship.

His recent work at Clemson has been solid. The Tigers made the College Football Playoff in 2024. Riley has a deep existing relationship with Sonny Dykes. Their successful history together makes this a compelling possibility.

Experience and Big 12 Knowledge Enter the Frame

Dana Holgorsen presents an intriguing option. He has vast experience across the Big 12 conference. Holgorsen worked with Dykes at Texas Tech earlier in their careers. He even served as a TCU consultant in early 2024.

He is now the offensive coordinator at Nebraska. Holgorsen understands the league’s landscape intimately. His familiarity could provide valuable stability. This hire would be about proven tactical knowledge.

A Rising Star From the Local Scene

Jordan Davis represents the up-and-coming path. He is the offensive coordinator at North Texas. Davis just led one of the nation’s most prolific offenses. His unit averaged over 500 yards per game this season.

The 33-year-old is an Arlington native. He has strong ties to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Davis played wide receiver at Texas Tech. His modern, high-output scheme could attract exciting talent.

TCU’s offensive coordinator search will define their upcoming season. The choice must balance innovation with proven results. This critical decision impacts the team’s trajectory immediately.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who are the main candidates for the TCU OC job?

The top names include Clemson’s Garrett Riley, Nebraska’s Dana Holgorsen, and North Texas’s Jordan Davis. All have strong ties to Texas or to head coach Sonny Dykes. The search is expected to move quickly.

When does TCU need to make this hire?

The timing is urgent with the Alamo Bowl approaching on December 30. A new coordinator would ideally be in place before early signing day. This allows for stability in recruiting and bowl preparation.

Why did Kendal Briles leave TCU?

Briles accepted the offensive coordinator position at South Carolina. It is considered a professional advancement within the SEC. His departure opens a key role for Sonny Dykes to fill.

How will this affect quarterback Josh Hoover?

The new coordinator’s system will be Hoover’s third in three years. Consistency will be a challenge. However, a return to a system like Garrett Riley’s could be beneficial.