Baylor University has hired Matt Rhule as new head football coach, the university confirms.
“We could not be more excited to welcome Matt, Julie and their children to the Baylor Family,” Vice President Mack Rhoades said. “When we set out on our search for a new leader of our football program, we wanted a coach who shared our values, who had demonstrated success, who showed a true commitment to the overall student-athlete and who we believed could lead Baylor to a national championship. We found all of that and more in Matt and I know that he will be a perfect fit with the Baylor Family.”
Rhule is currently the head coach of the Temple Owls in Philadelphia. He has been in that position since 2012.
Rhule guided Owls to 20 wins in the last two seasons.
Before arriving at Temple University, Rhule spent four seasons as an assistant coach at Western Carolina, including three as assistant head coach.
Rhule also spent some time as the New York Giants assistant offensive line coach.
“I am truly honored and humbled to join the Baylor Family,” Rhule said. “and I can’t thank President Garland and Mack Rhoades enough for this incredible opportunity. Baylor is a tremendous institution with a history of football success and I know the passion that so many have for the Bears will help bring the community together to reach even greater heights. I am excited to get started.”
The search for a new head football coach at Baylor has been surrounded by rumors.
Coaches such as SMU’s Chad Morris, Texas’ Tom Herman and UNC’s Larry Fedora were all rumored to be in contact with Baylor, but Athletic Director Mack Rhodes remained quiet about who the University actually spoke with.
Just last week, acting head coach Jim Grobe took his name out of the running, stating he plans to retire at the end of the season.
Rhule will be introduced at a campus celebration on Wednesday at a time and site to be determined.
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