Legendary offensive coordinator steps down from Florida State
Gus Malzahn, the acclaimed offensive coordinator at Florida State, announced his retirement Monday after 35 years in coaching. The 60-year-old made the decision to step away primarily due to family considerations, according to sources close to the program.
Malzahn, who spent the 2025 season with the Seminoles, will be succeeded by Tim Harris Jr., who has been promoted from co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach to the full offensive coordinator role.
A Storied Coaching Career
Malzahn’s departure marks the end of one of college football’s most successful coaching tenures. As a head coach at three major programs, he compiled a 105-62 record across 13 seasons, with only two losing campaigns. His most notable tenure came during eight years at Auburn (2013-2020), where he posted a 63-35 record, led the Tigers to a national championship game appearance against Florida State in 2013, and claimed two SEC West Division titles.
Prior to Auburn, Malzahn served as head coach at Arkansas State in 2012 and later led UCF from 2021 through 2024. Before his head coaching roles, he made his mark as an innovative offensive coordinator, famously orchestrating Auburn’s high-octane offense that helped Cam Newton win the Heisman Trophy and the Tigers capture the 2010 national championship with a perfect 14-0 record.
Impact on Florida State’s Offense
In his single season at Florida State, Malzahn transformed the Seminoles’ offensive output dramatically. The offense led the ACC in total offense (472.1 yards per game) and rushing (218.7 yards per game) during the 2025 season. Wide receiver Duce Robinson emerged as a first-team All-ACC selection and Biletnikoff Award semifinalist, catching 56 passes for 1,081 yards and six touchdowns.
Mike Norvell, Florida State’s head coach, praised Malzahn’s contributions. “Coach Malzahn did a wonderful job coordinating our offense and calling plays in 2025, and he has set a strong foundation for us to continue building on in 2026 behind the coordination of Tim Harris,” Norvell said.
Harris Takes Over
Harris brings significant college coaching experience to the role, having previously served as offensive coordinator at both UCF and Florida International University (FIU). During his time at FIU from 2015-2020, Harris helped oversee one of the program’s strongest periods, with the Panthers winning nine games and the Bahamas Bowl in 2018. Harris also has high school head coaching experience, leading Booker T. Washington High School in Miami to a 14-0 record and the 4A state championship in 2014, earning Florida Football Coach of the Year honors.
In his statement, Malzahn expressed gratitude for his time at Florida State. “After 35 years, it’s time for me to step away from coaching. 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 said.
