Kliff Kingsbury, former Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach and quarterback, is making a return to college football. A proud alumnus of Texas Tech University and a former star player under the iconic coach Mike Leach, Kingsbury is stepping into a new role in the NCAA………….

Kliff Kingsbury Set to Return to College Football in New Role
Kliff Kingsbury, a name that carries a significant legacy in the world of college football, is poised to return to the sport after a brief hiatus. Known for his impressive career both as a player and a coach, Kingsbury is stepping back into the NCAA landscape, taking on a new role that promises to add another chapter to his already distinguished career. His return has generated significant buzz within the college football community, especially given his connection to Texas Tech University, where his journey both as a player and coach began.
A Storied History at Texas Tech
Kliff Kingsbury’s relationship with Texas Tech University has been a pivotal part of his football career. Kingsbury first made a name for himself in Lubbock as the star quarterback for the Texas Tech Red Raiders under the guidance of the late, legendary coach Mike Leach. His playing career was marked by impressive statistics and a unique ability to lead his team to victory. Kingsbury, who played for Texas Tech from 1998 to 2002, finished his college career with a school-record 12,423 passing yards and 95 touchdown passes, both of which were remarkable feats at the time.
During his tenure as the team’s quarterback, Kingsbury helped lead the Red Raiders to multiple bowl games, including an upset victory over the University of California in the 2001 Holiday Bowl. His success on the field quickly made him a fan favorite, and many saw him as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the country during his playing years. But it wasn’t just his athletic ability that set him apart; it was his cerebral understanding of the game and his leadership skills, both of which would later serve him well in his coaching career.
Transitioning to Coaching: A New Era for Texas Tech
After a brief stint in the NFL, Kingsbury’s return to Texas Tech was as a coach, not as a player. In 2013, Kingsbury was hired as the head coach of the Red Raiders, marking the beginning of a new era for the program. His time as head coach was marked by ups and downs, but his offensive acumen and innovative coaching style were never in question. Kingsbury’s ability to coach quarterbacks was especially lauded, and his offensive schemes were often seen as ahead of their time, fitting in with the fast-paced, high-scoring style of play that became synonymous with the spread offense.
During his time as head coach at Texas Tech, Kingsbury recruited and developed some of the most talented quarterbacks in the country, including Patrick Mahomes, who would go on to become an NFL superstar with the Kansas City Chiefs. Kingsbury’s success in developing quarterbacks was a major reason why he was able to attract top-tier talent to Texas Tech, despite the school being in the competitive Big 12 Conference. His ability to connect with players and get the best out of them, both on and off the field, was a hallmark of his coaching career.
Kingsbury’s time at Texas Tech came to an end in 2018, but it wasn’t long before he found another opportunity to showcase his skills. In 2019, Kingsbury made the jump to the NFL as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. His transition to the professional level was met with skepticism by some, but Kingsbury quickly proved that he was capable of handling the challenges of coaching at the highest level. While his time with the Cardinals wasn’t as successful as he might have hoped, Kingsbury gained valuable experience that will undoubtedly benefit him in his next coaching endeavor.
A New Chapter in College Football
Now, after a few years away from the NCAA spotlight, Kingsbury is returning to college football in a new role. While the specifics of his new position have yet to be fully revealed, it is expected that his return will be a significant moment for both him and the college football community. Kingsbury’s return to the NCAA is a testament to his enduring passion for the game and his desire to contribute to the growth and development of college football.
As a distinguished alumnus of Texas Tech University and a former standout player under Mike Leach, Kingsbury’s legacy in Lubbock is deeply ingrained. His return to the college football world is not just about adding to his own career, but also about giving back to the sport that has given him so much. Many expect that Kingsbury will take on a role that allows him to mentor the next generation of players and coaches, imparting his knowledge and experience to those who follow in his footsteps.
A Legacy Built on Innovation and Leadership
Kliff Kingsbury’s return to college football is not just about his previous accomplishments, but also about the future of the game. Kingsbury has always been known for his innovative approach to the game, particularly in the realm of offensive schemes and quarterback development. His ability to adapt to the changing landscape of college football, while staying true to his roots as a quarterback, has made him a respected figure in the coaching community.
As he takes on this new role, there is no doubt that Kingsbury will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in college football. Whether it’s developing the next great quarterback or introducing new offensive concepts, Kingsbury’s influence on the game will be felt for years to come. His return is not just a reunion with his alma mater or the start of a new chapter in his career; it is a reminder of the impact that one individual can have on the game of college football.
In the coming months, the details of Kingsbury’s new role will likely become clearer, but one thing is certain: his return is an exciting development for college football, Texas Tech University, and the entire sports community. The next phase of Kingsbury’s journey is sure to be one filled with new challenges, opportunities, and successes, as he continues to shape the future of the game he loves.