Veteran college football coach Gus Malzahn has officially announced his retirement from coaching, bringing an end to a 35-year career in football. The 60-year-old coach made the decision after completing the 2025 season as offensive coordinator at Florida State Seminoles.
In his retirement statement, Malzahn said he wants to spend more time with his family and focus on the next chapter of his life. His exit closes one of the most influential offensive coaching careers in modern college football.
Gus Malzahn Coaching Career Overview
Malzahn’s journey began at the high school level in Arkansas, where he built a dominant program before moving to college football. Over the years, he became known for fast-paced offenses, creative run schemes, and quarterback development.
Career highlights include:
- Arkansas State head coach (2012)
- Auburn head coach (2013–2020)
- UCF head coach (2021–2024)
- Florida State offensive coordinator (2025)
His overall FBS head coaching record stands at 105–62, with only two losing seasons across multiple programs.
Gus Malzahn at UCF: Head Coach Record (2021–2024)
Malzahn was hired as head coach of UCF Knights in February 2021. His arrival came at a crucial time as UCF prepared to move from the Group of Five into the Big 12 Conference.
UCF Season-by-Season Record
| Season | Record | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 9–4 | Bowl game victory |
| 2022 | 9–5 | Conference championship game appearance |
| 2023 | 6–7 | Competitive Big 12 transition season |
| 2024 | 4–8 | Final season before resignation |
Overall UCF Record: 28–24
Conference Record: 16–18
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Best Moments as UCF Football Head Coach
1. Strong First Season in 2021
Malzahn quickly stabilized the program, leading UCF to a 9-win season and a bowl victory in his first year. The team adjusted fast to his offensive system.
2. Big 12 Transition Success in 2022
UCF remained competitive during its transition to the Big 12, finishing with nine wins and reaching the conference title game—an important milestone for the program.
3. Elite Rushing Offense Identity
Under Malzahn, UCF consistently ranked among the top 10 rushing offenses nationally. His run-heavy schemes gave the Knights a clear offensive identity.
4. Competitive Performances Against Power Teams
UCF remained competitive against stronger opponents, including memorable comeback wins and close Big 12 battles that elevated the program’s reputation.
5. Three Straight Bowl Appearances
Despite roster turnover and conference changes, Malzahn guided UCF to three consecutive bowl games, maintaining long-term program stability.
Final Coaching Chapter at Florida State (2025)
After stepping down from UCF in November 2024, Malzahn joined Florida State as offensive coordinator for the 2025 season. His impact was immediate.
- ACC leader in total offense
- ACC leader in rushing offense
- Signature win over Alabama in the season opener
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell credited Malzahn for building a strong offensive foundation, which the program plans to carry forward.
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Gus Malzahn Coaching Legacy
Gus Malzahn will be remembered for:
- Revolutionary offensive concepts
- Quarterback-friendly systems
- Building winning programs at multiple levels
- Successfully guiding teams through conference transitions
From high school football to the national championship stage, his influence shaped an entire generation of coaches and players.
Malzahn has not announced future plans beyond retirement, but his impact on college football is secure. Fans will remember him as a coach who valued innovation, discipline, and family—both on and off the field. College football says goodbye to the “Gus Bus”, but his legacy will remain part of the game for years to come.
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